It's Canon | A Romance & BookTok Podcast

It's Canon Podcast

Welcome to It's Canon, where we talk about the books everyone can’t stop talking about and maybe a few you haven't heard of yet. From BookTok favorites to dark romance, romantasy, contemporary love stories, and indie or debut author reads, we’re here to unpack the characters, the relationships, and all the chaotic decisions that keep readers hooked. We're not your typical bookish podcast. Some episodes feel like a full book club discussion. Others are more of a deep dive into a book that has us spiraling. Either way, expect honest reactions, strong opinions about morally gray book boyfriends, and the occasional literary meltdown. If you love romance books, book recommendations, and conversations that go a little off the rails, you’re in the right place. New episodes every other week.

Episodes

  1. May 12

    Skating on Thin Ice | The Emotional Damage of The Favorites by Layne Fargo

    In this episode of It’s Canon, we’re diving deep into The Favorites by Layne Fargo — the compulsively readable romance novel that has book lovers, BookTok readers, and contemporary romance fans completely obsessed. If you love messy relationships, emotional tension, elite competition, morally gray characters, and romance books packed with drama, angst, and chemistry, this episode is for you. We break down everything that makes The Favorites one of the most talked-about romance books of the year: the addictive character dynamics, the complicated love story, the ambition, betrayal, obsession, and the razor-sharp emotional storytelling that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. Whether you’re already a longtime Layne Fargo fan or just discovering this viral romance novel, we’re unpacking all the tension, twists, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments that make this book impossible to stop thinking about. Join us as we discuss romance tropes, toxic attraction, competitive relationships, emotional character arcs, book boyfriend discourse, and why The Favorites is dominating romance reader conversations online. We also get into the themes of power, identity, fame, ambition, and love at all costs — plus our honest reactions, favorite scenes, and the moments that absolutely wrecked us. If you’re searching for the best new romance books, BookTok romance recommendations, contemporary romance podcast episodes, or in-depth romance novel discussions, this episode of It’s Canon belongs on your TBR immediately. Perfect for fans of: contemporary romance booksdark romance and emotional romance novelsenemies-to-lovers energymessy and toxic fictional relationshipscharacter-driven romance storiesbook club podcast discussionsviral BookTok booksromance readers who love angst and dramaDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review It’s Canon for weekly romance book discussions, romance novel reviews, spicy book talk, BookTok favorites, author spotlights, and deep dives into the internet’s most addictive romance reads. WHERE TO FIND US You can also find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast! And you can interact with us on our socials (TikTok and Instagram) using the handle @itscanonpod!

    51 min
  2. Apr 14

    It's Lights Out and Away We Go | Ride with Me by Simone Soltani (F1 Sports Romance) It's Canon Ep. 8

    On today’s episode of It’s Canon, we’re taking it to the track and diving into Ride With Me by Simone Soltani, an F1 sports romance that delivers on tension, chemistry, and emotional payoff. If you love green flag MMCs, strong FMCs, Formula 1 romance, and stories that skip the third-act breakup… you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down everything from first impressions to character chemistry, plus a deep dive into the writing style, plot, and emotional impact of this fast-paced romance. And yes… we’re talking about the yearning. Expect hot takes, chaotic group chat energy, and honest reactions as we unpack what makes Ride With Me stand out in the world of sports romance and BookTok favorites. We also get into tropes, relationship development, and whether this one lives up to the hype. WHERE TO FIND US You can also find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast! And you can interact with us on our socials (TikTok and Instagram) using the handle @itscanonpod! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of 'Ride With Me' 01:34 First Impressions of the Book 13:57 Exploring Themes of Love and Trust 16:26 Writing Style and Adaptation Potential 18:13 Reading Between the Lines: Character Chemistry 20:28 The Evolution of Relationships: From Strangers to Partners 21:58 Crafting a Masterpiece: The Art of Storytelling 24:37 Tropes and Trends: The Changing Landscape of Romance 27:56 Yearning Redefined: The Essence of Emotional Connection 38:36 Reading Progress and Goodreads Ratings 39:29 Five-Star Reads and Vibes Reading 41:13 Bark or Bite: Character Evaluations 45:59 Final Thoughts on Characters and Ratings Ride With Me Simone Soltani, F1 romance book, Formula 1 romance, sports romance books, BookTok romance, green flag MMC, strong FMC romance, romance book podcast, book review podcast, yearning romance books

    48 min
  3. Mar 31

    Vampires, Power, and Desire | Indie Author Talk w/ Apollo Infiniti | Bloodmoney: A Dark Romance

    Get ready for our first-ever author interview on It’s Canon! In this episode, we sit down with dark paranormal romance author Apollo Infiniti, the mind behind Bloodmoney—a gripping vampire romance novel packed with danger, desire, and morally complex characters. If you’re obsessed with dark romance, vampire stories, gothic worlds, and spicy paranormal romance, this episode is a must-listen. We dive deep into: 🖤 The inspiration behind Bloodmoney and its dark fantasy universe✍️ Apollo Infiniti’s writing process and how the story evolved🧛 Vampire lore, power dynamics, down bad men, and a woman deserving of a baddie chain🔥 NSFW questions about spice level, tension, and fan-favorite moments📖 What’s next for the Bloodmoney series and upcoming releasesWhether you’re searching for your next dark paranormal romance book, love vampire power dynamics energy, or want a behind-the-scenes look at an author’s creative process, this episode delivers insight, heat, and exclusive details you won’t hear anywhere else. Perfect for fans of: dark romance books, vampire fiction, paranormal romance series, BookTok fantasy recommendations, romance readers, fantasy lovers, indie author supporters, and anyone who loves spicy, immersive storytelling!  Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to It’s Canon for more romance book recommendations, author interviews, and deep dives into trending dark romance novels! WHERE TO FIND US You can also find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast! And you can interact with us on our socials (TikTok and Instagram) using the handle @itscanonpod! #DarkRomance #VampireRomance #FantasyRomance #AuthorInterview #IndieAuthor #BookPodcast #SpicyBooks #ParanormalRomance #BookTokReads #RomanceBooks #ItsCanon CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:20 Introducing Apollo Infiniti and Blood Money 01:39 Overview of Blood Money's Plot 05:39 The Writing Journey Behind Blood Money 09:47 Future Plans for the Bloodmoney Series 15:21 The Journey to a Happy Ending 17:44 Insights into Indie Publishing 25:45 The Reality of Self-Publishing 31:13 Bark or Bite 42:40 Height and Attraction 46:39 Communication Styles in Relationships 49:36 Character Dynamics and Relationships 52:31 Juicy Questions and Speculations 56:10 Writing Spicy Scenes 59:21 Character Design and Inspiration 01:03:49 Future Projects and Genre Exploration 01:05:37 Closing Thoughts

    1h 10m
  4. Mar 17

    We Take on Love Y’all Book Con 💕 | Author Signings, ARCs & Influencer Events + Canceled Events

    Ever wondered what it’s really like to attend a romance book convention? In this episode of It’s Canon Podcast, we’re taking you inside the Love Y’all Book Convention and sharing our full experience—from author signings to exclusive influencer events, must-see reader panels and book bestie meetups! We break down what makes this romance-focused book convention so special, what to expect as an attendee, and how to make the most of your time at events like Love Y’all. Whether you're going for the books, the community, or the chance to meet your favorite authors, this episode gives you a real, authentic look. In this episode, we cover: Our experience at the Love Y’all Book ConventionRomance author signings from some of our favorite (and now close and personal best friend) authorsBehind-the-scenes of book influencer eventsSome of the panels for romance readersTips for attending your first book convention or festivalWhat we loved (and what surprised us!)We even talk about other bookish events that either wow'd or woe'd us. If you're searching for romance book conventions, author meet and greets, book signing events, or want to know if Love Y’all Book Convention is worth attending, this episode is for you. Perfect for fans of romance novels, BookTok books, and readers looking to connect with the romance community in real life. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share with your fellow romance readers! WHERE TO FIND US You can also find the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcast! And you can interact with us on our socials (TikTok and Instagram) using the handle @itscanonpod! Chapters 00:00 Love Y'all Book Fest Experience27:29 Friday VIP Experiences and Influencer Party38:42 Influencer Experience at Love Y'all Book Fest01:18:14 Romance Genre and Publicity01:27:29 Disappointing Book Festival Experience

    1h 8m
  5. Mar 3

    Who Is the Best Book Boyfriend? We Settled It. | March Madness Romance Bracket | It’s Canon Ep. 5

    Welcome back to It’s Canon, the romance podcast where we overanalyze fictional men. In Episode 5, we’re hosting our very own March Madness–style bracket: Battle of the Book Boyfriends. Each host brings their favorite romance MMC and their most iconic quotes, and we put them head-to-head in a dramatic quote showdown. We’re talking: • The most swoon-worthy romance quotes • Jealous vs protective energy in book boyfriends • Loyalty, commitment, and possessiveness in romance • Emotional monologues that changed us • Yearning vs obsession, where’s the line? • Character analysis through dialogue • The ultimate book boyfriend competition Which fictional man delivers the most powerful declaration of love? Does delivery matter more than the words themselves? And who wins when devotion goes up against dominance? Expect competitive chaos, deep character breakdowns, unexpected tiebreakers, and one crowned champion. If you love: Romance books Book boyfriend debates March Madness brackets Romantic quotes Fandom discussions Literary character analysis Or screaming about fictional men with your friends This episode is for you. WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Which quote would’ve gotten your vote?  Did our champion deserve the crown? What do you want to see next? LISTEN + FOLLOW3 Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts 3  Follow us on TikTok & Instagram @itscanonpod 3 New romance episodes every other week Subscribe for more romance book discussions, hot takes, character breakdowns, and chaotic bookish debates. TIMESTAMPS00:00 March Madness: Battle of the Book Boyfriends 03:41 Explaining the Bracket System 05:12 Let the Battle Begin 30:29 Tiebreakers and Decision Making 31:43 The Battle Continues 01:00:12 The Final Two 01:03:28 Revealing the Ultimate Book Boyfriend 01:05:06 Wrap-Up and Future Discussions

    1h 11m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to It's Canon, where we talk about the books everyone can’t stop talking about and maybe a few you haven't heard of yet. From BookTok favorites to dark romance, romantasy, contemporary love stories, and indie or debut author reads, we’re here to unpack the characters, the relationships, and all the chaotic decisions that keep readers hooked. We're not your typical bookish podcast. Some episodes feel like a full book club discussion. Others are more of a deep dive into a book that has us spiraling. Either way, expect honest reactions, strong opinions about morally gray book boyfriends, and the occasional literary meltdown. If you love romance books, book recommendations, and conversations that go a little off the rails, you’re in the right place. New episodes every other week.