Shelf Love: Romance Novel Discourse

Andrea’s discussions are fully developed, with a great and thoughtful selection of topics. In my opinion, there is not enough discussion about all these dimensions and interpretations that the romance genre has.

Huge sigh of relief!! I’ve been dying to have in depth conversations about books, romance novels, feminism, sexuality, etc., etc. with some thoughtful and insightful people. This show DELIVERS. I am so satisfied, having just listened to two episodes (including the deeply intelligent review of Anais Nin’s “Delta of Venus”). Holy crap, my joy at finding this podcast cannot be fully described!! Yesssss!!!!

Andrea is a very talented host and producer of this podcast about the romance genre and the people who read it. Book reviews happen, but the show digs deeper into societal perceptions, lasting impacts on readers, diversity and representation, and is it even appropriate to prod further when we are guaranteed a happily ever after? The writers, scholars, and experts she interviews add to the already incredible ideas and topics. Most importantly, while there is a great love for the genre apparent in each episode, it is not unconditional. Andrea can appreciate the positive while acknowledging the problematic. That authenticity keeps me an ardent admirer.

I am so pleased to have found a romance review podcast that is more than just book summaries and “i loved it so much!” There are a variety of topics and issues discussed and even though i have not read most of the books mentioned here (I pretty exclusively read queer romance) it’s still interesting.