Culture Lit

Culture Lit
  • 5.0 (6)
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  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Culture Lit

Welcome to Culture Lit, the ultimate podcast and community celebrating the beauty of Black love in romance novels! Join us as we embark on a passionate journey through the pages of captivating Black romance novels, penned by talented Black authors. Join us at Culture Lit, where we celebrate the voices of Black romance authors, unravel the intricacies of romance, and create a space where you can connect with like-minded readers. Whether you're a seasoned romance novel enthusiast or a newcomer curious about the world of Black love, Culture Lit is your invitation to immerse yourself in stories that mirror the depth and richness of Black women's romantic experiences. Get ready to be entertained, inspired, and captivated – because love, laughter, and literature await you at Culture Lit!

  1. Redemption, Kink & Knowing Your Worth: Tanvier Peart on Madison’s Full Circle in Tender Offer

    JUL 9

    Redemption, Kink & Knowing Your Worth: Tanvier Peart on Madison’s Full Circle in Tender Offer

    If you enjoyed "Ella Gets the D," "Miles Apart," or "The Seven Month Itch," by Tanvier Peart. In this episode, we sit down with Tanvier Peart, indie romance author and creator of Tender Offer, to explore Madison’s unforgettable redemption arc. Once considered the villain in The Seven-Month Itch, Madison’s full-circle journey reveals the messy, layered beauty of second chances, knowing your worth, and letting love heal. We talk about: ✨ Writing spicy, kinky romance that centers Black women’s joy and agency ✨ Why Preston is the ultimate “cinnamon roll hero with alpha tendencies” ✨ The power of rest, resistance, and self-love in Peart’s stories ✨ How her policy background sneaks into her novels (climate change billionaires? Check.) If you love emotionally charged storytelling, “if he wanted to, he would” energy, and Black women embracing their soft life, this episode will have you swooning and reflecting in equal measure. 🎧 Hit play and join us as we unpack love, liberation, and the unapologetic layers of Tanvier Peart’s world. "Tender Offer" releases on July 29th, so preorder on Burn Bright Books or The Frenchy Press now! Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    1h 2m
  2. The Best Black Romance Books of 2025 (So Far!) - Spicy Reads, Second Chances & More

    JUN 25

    The Best Black Romance Books of 2025 (So Far!) - Spicy Reads, Second Chances & More

    Today I bring you my top reads so far of 2025! The struggle was real trying to narrow this list down. What I love about this collection is the variety. We've got traditional publishers, indie authors, different sub genres, characters at various life stages, young adult and adult romance. This is what Black Romance is all about, showing the full spectrum of our love stories. Church Girl by Naima SimoneThe Love Syllabus by Lauren LaceyAnd Then Life Was Beautiful by Asia MoniqueAudra & Bash Are Just Friends by Tia WilliamsThe World Around Us by Lauren LaceyPlus Size Player by Danielle AllenQuasim I & Quasim II by Jahquel JCan’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan Find these and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    14 min
  3. "Plus Size Player" by Danielle Allen: Why Curvy Heriones Are Changing Romance

    JUN 11

    "Plus Size Player" by Danielle Allen: Why Curvy Heriones Are Changing Romance

    One of my newest favorite authors is Danielle Allen, author of "Curvy Girl Summer," among many other titles. Danielle is a life and relationship coach and her insights into the dynamics of healthy relationships shine through in the way she writes her characters and their interactions. It is very important to her that her characters are loved as they are, and that they interact with each other in an emotionally mature way. Her newest romance, "Plus Size Player," follows the story of Nina, best friend of the heroine in "Curvy Girl Summer." Nina is curvy, confident, and sure about who she is and what she wants. Get ready for a spicy romance featuring plus size black women with natural hairstyles who aren't interested in changing themselves for anyone. The final book in the series is coming out in April 2026, but you can get "Plus Size Player" now! Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    1 hr
  4. Sex on the Beach and on the Page: Solo Adventures and TBR Black Romance Escapes

    MAY 28

    Sex on the Beach and on the Page: Solo Adventures and TBR Black Romance Escapes

    I'm coming to you from Puerto Vallarta on a solo adventure to talk about self-discovery and treating yourself.  If it's been a while since you've done something solo or you've been feeling a little anxious or hesitant about taking yourself on a date or planning a solo trip, I hope this episode will be the gentle nudge you need to push you past that hesitation and do the damn thing. There are some experiences in life that teach us profound lessons about ourselves, and solo adventures are absolutely one of them. Reading transports you to different places and different times, but there's nothing like spending time with yourself to really unwind and get to know who you really are and what really makes you tick. In my TBR bag for this trip, and this episode, are: Revive Me by JL SeegarsNo Ordinary Love by Myah ArielCapone I-III (Season one: Delgato Family Book 1-3) by Jahquel JQuasim : King Inferno (Season Four: Inferno Gods Book 1) by Jahquel JWork Song by Danielle AllenPlus Size Player by Danielle Allen Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    32 min
  5. Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan: Caregiving, Childless by Choice, Black Love, and Sexual Autonomy

    MAY 14

    Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan: Caregiving, Childless by Choice, Black Love, and Sexual Autonomy

    Today I'll be focusing on themes of healing, self-love, and resilience inspired by my personal journey over the last two and a half years. I delve into Kennedy Ryan's novel 'Can't Get Enough,' the final installment in the Skyland series, highlighting its portrayal of black love, complex family dynamics, and authentic representation of a plus-sized, confident heroine, Hendrix Barry. Through the lens of Hendrix Bell and Maverick's love story, we discuss themes of healing, caregiving, mental health, plus-size representation, and the powerful sisterhood among Black women. This episode is a celebration of resilience, self-love, and the kind of romance that honors our true selves. Join us as we reflect on the transformative journey of the characters and the profound questions they raise about our own lives. A main theme that hit me personally was caregiving for aging parents, the emotional and financial impact of such roles, and how love can be both supportive and liberating. Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    31 min
  6. Love, Power and Black Royalty: An Interview with LaQuette, Author of Royal Bride Demand

    APR 30

    Love, Power and Black Royalty: An Interview with LaQuette, Author of Royal Bride Demand

    Join host Octavia Marie as she welcomes award-winning romance author LaQuette to discuss her latest book, 'Royal Bride Demand.' Dive into black love, legacy, sisterhood, and the balance of modern and royal life through the eyes of a Brooklyn billionaire. LaQuette shares her journey from indie to traditional publishing, creating complex black characters, and navigating the publishing world as a black woman. This episode is packed with insights into her writing process, personal experiences, and a fresh perspective on black joy in romance. Don't miss the chance to grab your copy of 'Royal Bride Demand' and join the conversation on black romance and representation. Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production

    1h 17m
  7. RE-RUN: Black Girl Joy, Not Guilty Pleasure

    APR 16

    RE-RUN: Black Girl Joy, Not Guilty Pleasure

    We’ve been on a roller coaster of unprecedented times. Every time I think things are looking better, the world throws more chaos at us. During times like this, I turn to things that bring me joy. For me, that’s romance novels. Romance readers are often criticized, and the genre itself gets criticized. I would call romance novels my guilty pleasure but eventually I realized that I didn’t have to be ashamed of something that brings me so much joy. Today I’m visiting with Kay P, author of the blog Melanin Mindscape, voracious reader of all things black, in all genres. We’ll talk about what “guilty pleasures” actually are and why we feel like we need to hide them. We’re unpacking some thoughts around rest and productivity, the literature hierarchy that puts romance at the bottom, and why we deserve to just enjoy things. Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A Subito Media production Mentioned in this episode: You can find all the books I've reviewed in this podcast in my Bookshop! Visit https://bookshop.org/shop/CultureLitPodcast to get your copy! Visit my bookshop!

    33 min
  8. Songs of Survival, Art, Healing & Finding Yourself with author Monica McCollough

    APR 2

    Songs of Survival, Art, Healing & Finding Yourself with author Monica McCollough

    You're in for a treat with today's visit with Monica McCullough, the author of the debut novel "Songs of Lost Things: Sonata for the Sun." We'll discuss the book's themes of family dynamics, self-discovery, and the role of music in the story. Join in as Monica shares insights into her inspiration, the development of her characters, and her journey as an independent author. As a first-time self-published author, Monica has some tips for other aspiring authors about the publishing process. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about storytelling, artistry, and the power of literature. If you order your copy of "Songs of Lost Things," from Monica's website, you will receive a signed copy! Visit her website here: https://monicamccollough.com/ The summer Lavender turned twelve, she was eager to dip her toes into the world of make-out sessions with her school crush and late-night misdeeds with her best friend in their raucous Newark, NJ neighborhood. Instead, her father had other plans...musical plans. He wanted to continue cultivating her gifted melodic mind and nudge her to begin preparing to apply to the local Arts Magnet High School. Lavender suddenly finds herself cast into an unrecognizable and dispiriting world where she fights to maintain her sense of self, connection to her musical gifts, and footing inside her own family dynamics. Years later, as a woman in her thirties who never reckoned with how much of herself she'd relinquished in her tumultuous adolescence, Lavender meets a younger man who reminds her of what she's lost...and what she's surrendered. Captivated by his charm, yet apprehensive of his interest, she's upended in unexpected ways. The mental health struggles she's managed to mildly overcome is ever present as ghosts from her past continuously appear. Love tries to find her as she finds herself. Will she reemerge from it all with her full self: stable, whole, and accepting of the love she deserves? Or will she fall back into the cycle of old habits and questionable choices that persisted and framed her reality for decades? If you're looking for a coming of age story focused on self-acceptance, overcoming trauma, and letting go of the past to move forward to the future, then this is the book for you! Find this and other recommendations at The CultureLit online BookShop and support independent bookstores at Visit my bookshop! Culture Lit is a community celebrating black women and black love, and a reminder that black women deserve joy, love success, second chances, and all the beautiful magic the world has to offer. Please follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you listen to your podcasts! 867ee74025523ee6ed6778606760fb766bb83044 Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re thinking, and what you’re thinking about what you’re reading. STAY CONNECTED Instagram: becomingoctavia Twitter: xooctaviamarie FB: BecomingOctaviaMarie Music credit: Cool Jazz Beat by FASOL PROD A a...

    49 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to Culture Lit, the ultimate podcast and community celebrating the beauty of Black love in romance novels! Join us as we embark on a passionate journey through the pages of captivating Black romance novels, penned by talented Black authors. Join us at Culture Lit, where we celebrate the voices of Black romance authors, unravel the intricacies of romance, and create a space where you can connect with like-minded readers. Whether you're a seasoned romance novel enthusiast or a newcomer curious about the world of Black love, Culture Lit is your invitation to immerse yourself in stories that mirror the depth and richness of Black women's romantic experiences. Get ready to be entertained, inspired, and captivated – because love, laughter, and literature await you at Culture Lit!

Information

  • Creator
    Culture Lit
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Culture Lit
  • Show Website
    Culture Lit

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