Not Another Heroine
Katie and Jordan, two friends with similar reading habits, discuss books outside of the office. They break down the best and worst fictional heroines, often struggling with character names. Each book gets a few episodes, so spoilers beware. They also share additional content on Instagram and YouTube.
Episodes
Hot & Bothered: The Book of Judgement
Hi Readers and Happy May!We're still on a reading hiatus but found this rant of an episode in our 2025 library.-----Thank you Reddit for inspiring yet another H&B episode: this week we're getting judgy. What is your book? You know the one. If someone says it's their most favorite, artistic rendering of the genre, an utter masterpiece. and you just, can't? Every single recommendation they make
Hot & Bothered: Pay Per Page
As promised Readers, we present some of our older rant sessions on random book-adjacent topics. This episode was originally recorded in February 2025 and focused on Kindle Unlimited.--------------Is Kindle Unlimited unduly influencing the writing/editing game? Romantasy books keep getting longer, plot predictability is at an eye-rolling level, and if we meet one more shadow daddy on page 2 we're b
160. In praise of Divergent and a temporary goodbye... "choo choo."
Readers, We never want books to feel like a chore or for our episodes to be an endless nitpicking critique, but we've found ourselves drifting closer to that reality. We want to return to why we started Not Another Heroine in the first place: love of reading and the desire to share that excitement with another reader. Our first episodes on Sherwood Smith's "Crown Duel," while entirely too long, we
Pick of the Week: Boyfriend on Demand (Netflix)
While it looks fluffy and silly, Boyfriend on Demand offers a surprisingly dark commentary on modern dating. Jisoo from Blackpink and Seo In-guk (Doom At Your Service) star as almost enemy coworkers who each harbor secret feelings for the other. And if you like an extra helping of eye candy, there are many other recognizable actors who make appearances as Jisoo's virtual boyfriends.https://www.net
159. The Reluctant Heiress by Eva Ibbotson (Part 2) "Cillian Murphy."
This book is over 40 years old and a product of its time, but we enjoyed the accurate (but digestible) historic setting, character development, and well-paced romantic tension. Warning for romance readers who like their side of spice...there is none in this book.Similar Books and ShowsThe Illusionisthttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443543/?ref_=fn_i_1The Sound of Musichttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt005
Pick of the Week: A Company of Swans by Eva Ibbotson
If you liked The Reluctant Heiress, just make this one your next read. Same tropes, same characters, just new names and a South America setting. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/963274.A_Company_of_Swans?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=2ulW7hj6nx&rank=1Similar BooksEdenbrooke Julianne Donaldsonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12820360-edenbrooke?from_search=true&from_srp=t
The Reluctant Heiress by Eva Ibbotson (Part 1) "A man who can plan."
This book is over 40 years old and a product of its time, but we enjoyed the accurate (but digestible) historic setting, character development, and well-paced romantic tension. Warning for romance readers who like their side of spice...there is none in this book.Similar Books and ShowsThe Illusionist https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443543/?ref_=fn_i_1The Sound of Music https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0
Pick of the Week: Wicked Ugly Bad by Cassandra Gannon
Once Upon a Time (the TV show) get a spicy, modern setting where all the traditional fairy tale characters are flipped on their heads. What makes a Good or Bad person? How do you get sent the to WUB Club? Is Cinderella really doing that with her mice?This is the first in a seven book series, but each can be read as a standalone (the characters are interconnected a la Bridgerton style).https://www.
March Reading Update: "Jump scare."
Katie makes an attempt at extroversion during a Heated Rivalry event and runs a marathon instead of a turkey trot. The list of DNFs continues to grow and the reading slump persists.Please leave a comment and help us narrow down our future reads, some options:Wild Reverence by Rebecca Rosshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222376906-wild-reverenceDivergent by Veronica Rothhttps://www.goodreads.com
Pick of the Week: The Second Death of Locke by V.L. Bovalino
A slow start (Katie had to persevere through the first 50 to 60 percent), but thorough world-building and a rewarding friends-to-lovers romance make this worth the effort. Not quite as emotionally immersive as others in the genre, but this does tend to lean more traditional fantasy.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220137908-the-second-death-of-locke?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Ap
156. Traitor Son by Melissa Cave (Part 2) "Miche and Remin. I mean, you never know."
So many walls and the weirdest love confession we've read yet.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218333744-traitor-son?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=cYvC4cviR5&rank=1Similar BooksThe Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carsonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10429092-the-girl-of-fire-and-thorns?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=w6brDLeNax&rank=1The Emperor's Edge by Lin
Pick of the Week: This Monster of Mine by Shalini Abeysekara
There was too much going on for any one aspect of this book to be particularly good. An interesting start with a novel setting led to shoved in tropes and a romance that felt flat and forced. This would've been better as a pure fantasy.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219268963-this-monster-of-mine?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=eUgEEnIeQ8&rank=1Similar BooksOne Dark Window by R
155. Traitor Son by Melissa Cave (Part 1) "Bob the Builder plays Age of Empires."
It's not too often that a Pick of the Week turns into a Monday episode but given the similarities to Grace Draven and J.D. Evans, we should've known better.Traitor Son is a bit of a sleeper hit, equal parts intricate world-building and romance. The heroine is not your typical romantasy lead. She's a bit mousy, submissive, and sometimes innocent to an eyeroll level, but she undergoes massive charac
Pick of the Week: Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu
Maybe a bit recycled on the plot but what isn't these days? This was a decent read, reminiscent of some the blockbuster romantasy hits.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58650445-heavenly-bodies?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_15Similar BooksThe Hurricane Wars by Thea Guanzonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75668288-the-hurricane-wars?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=D4qBxLmvHn&rank=1Throne of G
Netflix's Bridgerton Season 4 "She's acting her t*** off."
This iteration is more faithful to the book than past seasons, perhaps that's why we enjoyed it more? Or maybe it's the acting chops of Katie Leung (Araminta) and Yerin Ha (Sophie), who absolutely kill it in both of their roles.We do have some gripes with the show in general, namely the constant jumping around to different couples who already had a whole damn season for their story. Netflix also s
Pick of the Week: Homebound by Lydia Hope
A Lilo and Stitch meet-cute on a Wall-E style Earth featuring Cinderella and a Ken doll?This week's pick is a little unhinged, and while it might not be a good book, it was definitely an enjoyable one. Stick around if you like monster romance, are intrigued by sci-fi, or just need some cute fluff to get you through a reading slump.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50337348-homebound?from_search=
153. An Offer From A Gentleman by Julia Quinn (Part 2) "That bitch stole my shoe clips."
Is Benedict the most believable rake of all the Bridgerton brothers? Maybe that's what makes his insta-love with the Lady in Silver so convincing.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9408584-an-offer-from-a-gentleman?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_23 Similar BooksStranger In My Arms by Lisa Kleypashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243206.Stranger_in_My_ArmsHow the Marquess Was Won by Julie Anne Longhttps://www.
Pick of the Week: The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
It's taken years, but Katie FINALLY read The Hating Game, and the result? 5 stars, immediate re-read shelf. It's a Dramione-level enemies to lovers but in a contemporary business setting. Banter, tension, and humor that doesn't feel cheesy or forced.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27213238-the-hating-game?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Ju29076QRy&rank=1Similar BooksThe Bodyguar
152. An Offer From A Gentleman by Julia Quinn (Part 1) "Hand-shoes and the dong."
Julia Quinn can be relied upon to provide a safe, hallmark-worthy intro to historical romance. Just enough background and history to keep you immersed in the world without drowning you in the minutiae of how day-to-day life in the 1800s. Sophie and Benedict's story is our favorite of the Bridgerton novels for it's pacing but we're missing the angst of Lisa Kelypas' couples. https://www.goodreads.c
Pick of the Week: Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
"I'm not mad, just disappointed." The writing is fine, the premise is interesting, but between the characters and the slow pacing this book transformed from a reliable romcom to a DNF. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60683957-check-mate?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=7ufhbF1VSO&rank=1Similar Books and ShowsThe Queen's Gambit (Netflix)https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10048342/?ref_=
151. Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein (Part 2) "The birth canal."
We're finishing Frankenstein with some final thoughts on the recurring themes of parenthood and obsession, as well as the miraculous (and inconsistent) transformation of the creature into an independent being.Next week it's into the land of fairy tales and ballgowns as we read "An Offer From a Gentleman" by Julia Quinn and we pray that the almighty Shonda Rhimes gives our Sophie a true Benedict-ex
Pick of the Week: A Vow of Blood and Tears by Cate Corvin
Katie's pick is an underdog of a romantasy, with minimal Goodreads reviews and an uninspiring title, but a vampire-monster MMC and an aspiring librarian heroine save the day. Unless you're triggered by dual-POV, this might just bring you out of a reading slump.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219513328-a-vow-of-blood-and-tearsSimilar BooksRadiance by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/s
150. Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein (Part 1) "Father, I have sinned."
This week we're talking about Frankenstein's parallels with parenting and AI, the amazing (and symbolic) costumes designed by Kate Hawley, and our recurring wish for more heroine character development.Readers, if you've been on the fence about Jacob Elordi, especially with his upcoming role in Wuthering Heights, this movie will make a believe out of you.Similar Books and ShowsAlchemized by Senliny
Pick of the Week: Wyvern by Grace Draven
Check out my wings bro, I ain't no dragon.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31560086-wyvernSimilar BooksSong in the Silence by Elizabeth Kernerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1022209.Song_in_the_SilenceIn the Darkest Midnight by Grace Dravenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39874001-in-the-darkest-midnightDragon's Bait by Vivian Vande Veldehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/372807.Dragon_
149. The Bird and The Sword by Amy Harmon (Part 2) "He's an angel."
The Bird and the Sword might be for you if you loved the mysterious eagle rescue in Tamora Pierce's "Wild Magic," but want something more grown up with a witcher-style MMC. The writing style wavers between fairy tale and heavy introspection and our woebegone heroine Lark might annoy you with her poetry.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29008738-the-bird-and-the-sword?from_search=true&from_sr
Pick of the Week: Silver Elite by Dani Francis
Sometimes you just gotta eat a 7-11 hotdog.Silver Elite by Dani Francishttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217245572-silver-eliteSimilar BooksRed Queen by Victoria Aveyardhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22328546-red-queenAn Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahirhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/213075476-an-ember-in-the-ashesFourth Wing by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6143192
148. The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon (Part 1) "America, caw caw!"
The Bird and the Sword might be for you if you loved the mysterious eagle rescue in Tamora Pierce's "Wild Magic," but want something more grown up with a witcher-style MMC. The writing style wavers between fairy tale and heavy introspection and our woebegone heroine Lark might annoy you with her poetry.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29008738-the-bird-and-the-sword?from_search=true&from_sr
Hot & Bothered: Can you overlook a bad heroine?
Happy Friday, Readers! This was our first Hot & Bothered episode published almost a year ago on our Patreon, right after we had finished reading Fourth Wing. (Please forgive our general Violet snarkiness.) We have a handful of others H&B episodes we'll be posting on random Fridays, let us know what you think and if you'd like to see more of these.--------------------------------------The t
Pick of the Week: Impetuous by Lori Foster
Do you miss the early 2000's romcoms? That's Jordan's pick in book form. Low threat at only 180ish pages on Kindle Unlimited.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/763219.ImpetuousSimilar BooksAn Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinnhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9408584-an-offer-from-a-gentlemanThe Hating Game by Sally Thornehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27213238-the-hating-game?The Deal
Welcome to Season 4!
Welcome back to another NAH season! We're kicking off the year with a romantasy throwback. "The Bird and the Sword" by Amy Harmon will post next Monday, January 12th. Frankenstein (the Netflix version) and Heated Rivalry are also around the corner.We're planning to chew on Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey throughout the year (Seriously, have you seen how thick this book is? It puts Alchemised to
147. The NAH Awards
Another season down! Thank you all for sticking with us through this year of too many Ali Hazelwood books and very questionable monster romances. Our season 4 trailer is out on January 5th and our first book review of the year will post the very next week.Some housekeeping notes:We had a few issues with our recording equipment this episode so you'll hear a bit of an echo through certain bits of th
Pick of the Week: Bound by Ali Hazelwood
Katie's first 3 star Ali Hazelwood. Maybe the audiobook-only form had something to do with that?https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/242109300-boundSimilar BooksBuffy the Vampire Slayer (but with Giles)https://www.hulu.com/series/buffy-the-vampire-slayer-f2c277c5-62b4-417c-b277-8435b70176ddA Study in Drowning by Ava Reidhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75302266-a-study-in-drowningHot for Slayer
146. Maxton Hall by Mona Kasten (Part 2) "But I wanna go to the school dance."
Maxton Hall is an Amazon Prime show (2 seasons, 6 episodes each) based on the novel Save Me by Mona Kasten. This was originally produced in German and we highly recommend avoiding the English dub version.Gossip Girl but if Disney produced it. Bella meets Hermione with a whole helping of saintliness.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35060774-save-me?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Lp3n
Pick of the Week: My Happy Marriage by Akumi Agitogi
If you love Cinderella stories, My Happy Marriage, has got you in every format imaginable. Consume all of them at once like Jordan did for a full overdose of angst.Manga: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58671990-my-happy-marriage-vol-1?ref=rae_0Light Novel: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58450407-my-happy-marriage-light-novel-vol-1 Anime: https://share.google/VXaXoJ9UjUlqXWwLF Live Action
145. Maxton Hall by Mona Kasten (Part 1) "Where's the f****** cravat?"
Maxton Hall is an Amazon Prime show (2 seasons, 6 episodes each) based on the novel Save Me by Mona Kasten. This was originally produced in German and we highly recommend avoiding the English dub version.Gossip Girl 
Pick of the Week: Haunting Adeline by H. D. Carlton
Red pill propaganda or to each their own? This book has some scathing reviews on Goodreads and yet enjoys immense popularity all over booktok. Katie has some thoughts.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58763686-haunting-adelineSimilar BooksBelladonna by Adalyn Gracehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59227936-belladonnaLights Out by Navessa Allen (Feels a little bit like The Sheikh / The Blue Swo
144. Priestess by Kara Voorhees Reynolds "Wet t-shirt contest."
This may be a controversial opinion, but we did not love Priestess. Part writing style, part plot, part length, it never quite sucked us in. Similar BooksSwordheart by T. Kingfisherhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218624103-swordheart?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=BUAlVH2hIM&rank=1Paladin’s Grace by T. Kingfisherhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50702014-paladin-s-grace?from_
Pick of the Week: Cruel Winter With You by Ali Hazelwood
We've overdone it on the Ali Hazelwood books a bit these last few months, but can you blame us? This novella was way better than Mate and features a tiny age gap, second chance romancehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220389458-cruel-winter-with-youSimilar BooksTangled Sheets by Lori Fosterhttps://lorifoster.com/story/tangled-sheets/Overload by Linda Howardhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/278
143. Mate by Ali Hazelwood (Part 2) "Straight up BYU rules."
Was anyone else rooting for the terminal illness?https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228256271-mate?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=BZqYgLqMLu&rank=2Similar BooksThe Mercy Thompson Series by Patricia Briggshttps://www.goodreads.com/series/40932-mercy-thompsonAll You Want by SenLinYu https://archiveofourown.org/works/15153092/chapters/35140268The Wolf King by Lauren Palphreymanhttps:
Pick of the Week: White Horse Black Nights by Evie Marceau
This is the Knight and the Moth in a Halloween Costume. Do not be fooled by the beautiful cover. For Katie, who rarely DNFs a book, especially in audiobook form, this was a return to sender at the 20 percent mark. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195934852-white-horse-black-nightsbSimilar BooksThis Vicious Grace by Emily Thiedehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58957873-this-vicious-graceThe K
142. Mate by Ali Hazelwood (Part 1) "It's like a jolly rancher, you know?"
If you're like us and loved Bride maybe Mate didn't hit as hard for you? It's still Ali Hazelwood so of course we devoured this book but we found Serena and Koen's story a little lackluster. If you did read this and immediately thought: GIVE ME MORE, we have a few omegaverse recs for you below:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228256271-mate?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=BZqYgLqMLu&
Pick of the Week: Unforced Error by MsWhich
This is a complicated recommendation and potentially the start of a Hot & Bothered episode. What happens when Hermione is too Hermione in fanfiction?https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12665133/1/Unforced-ErrorSimilar BooksDo Not Go Gentle by SenLinYuhttps://archiveofourown.org/works/22065178Love and Other Historical Accidents by PacificRimbaudhttps://archiveofourown.org/works/21496525Subscribe on Yo
141. Alchemised by SenLinYu "Psst...I see dead people."
This week's episode is a little different from our usual synopsis-style breakdowns. While we both loved this book, we found it challenging to do justice to the narrative's intricacies with a handful of plot highlights and similar book recommendations.We have done our best to create a sort of Alchemised primer: an introduction to the world and magic system, and a rough breakdown of why the "good" a
Pick of the Week: Katie's Mystery Read
No notes. Listen at your own peril.Subscribe on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroineJoin us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine
140. Hot for Slayer by Ali Hazelwood "The entomologist and the exterminator."
For fans of Van Helsing, Underworld, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, we present you with 90ish pages of an amnesiac bug killer's adventures in New York.Happy Halloween, readers!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240581511-hot-for-slayer?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=rJheNUyCQv&rank=1 Similar BooksBride by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?from_search=
Pick of the Week: The Life of Showgirl by Taylor Swift
Whether you're a Swiftie, Swift-hater, or Swift-agnostic there might be something for you in this week's episode.Subscribe on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroineJoin us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine
139. Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood "Not an alpha-hole."
Two picks of the week and one full episode later, we are both (finally) fans of this book. If the traditional rom-com heroine doesn't hit hard enough for you (and Misery from Bride was your girl), then give Rue a shot.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198716261-not-in-loveSimilar BooksBride by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?from_search=true&from_srp=true&
Pick of the Week: The Utter Inconvenience of Certain Inclinations by Molivier
If you're suffering from an Alchemised book hangover, Dramione and Ali Hazelwood might save you. https://archiveofourown.org/works/66453367/chapters/171355735Similar BooksThe Politician’s Wife by Pir8Fancierhttps://archiveofourown.org/works/90292/chapters/122722Measure of a Man by inadaze22https://archiveofourown.org/works/26523892/chapters/64648648Subscribe on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@no
138. Reading Update: "SenLinYu in Seattle."
SenLinYu, the author of Alchemised, visits Third Place Books in Seattle, and we got tickets!https://www.senlinyuwrites.com/https://senlinyu.substack.com/ https://www.thirdplacebooks.com/Subscribe to our Youtube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroine
Pick of the Week: The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig
Good writing and interesting world-building but this book still felt like homework. If you're a fan of more fantasy than romance or need a palate cleanser, this wouldn't be a bad place to start. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205181098-the-thirteenth-childSimilar AuthorsNamoi Novikhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8730.Naomi_NovikCharlie N. Holmberghttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/78
137. Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas (Part 2) "Exclamation points."
Derek Craven brings in security. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114170.Then_Came_YouSimilar Books/AuthorsThrone of Glass by Sarah J. Maashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/76703559-throne-of-glass?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=muWpbWjTfb&rank=1Lady Sophia's Lover by Lisa Kleypashttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197743.Lady_Sophia_s_Lover?from_search=true&from_srp=true&
Pick of the Week: Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas
If you listened to Monday's episode and were wondering where to find Derek Craven, well, Katie found him.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/330721.Dreaming_of_YouSimilar BooksSix of Crows by Leigh Bardugohttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23437156-six-of-crowsThe Elf Tangent by Lindsay Burokerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60620822-the-elf-tangentDevil in Winter by Lisa Kleypashttps://www.g
136. Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas (Part 1) "You know I love a soft, virginal heroine."
You can't just stop at one Lisa Kleypas book, and like Bridgerton, all the characters are interconnected. Lily Lawson is decidedly not a soft, virginal heroine, but if you've seen a bit of life, you might relate to her character more than your standard sword-wielding ingenue. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114170.Then_Came_You Subscribe to our Youtube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@notanot
Pick of the Week: Traitor Son by Melissa J. Cave
Khalessi + Khal Drogo fanfiction? Perhaps. Is it amazing and will it bring you out of your reading slump? Absolutely.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218333744-traitor-sonSimilar BooksReign and Ruin by J.D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50607309-reign-ruinA Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martinhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13496.A_Game_of_ThronesThe Winner's Curse by Marie Rut
135. Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas (Part 2) "Stick your nose in a good book."
Readers, meet Hector.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7491418-love-in-the-afternoonSubscribe to our Youtube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroine
Pick of the Week: Potions, Poisons, and Policies by Courtney Thorne
Not great, but safe for public listening (and it's Dramione inspired).Potions, Poisons, and Policies by Courtney Thornehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219922931-potions-poisons-and-policiesSimilar BooksDivine Rivals by Rebecca Rosshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60784546-divine-rivalsFourth Wing by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61431922-fourthwingZodiac Academy by Carol
134. Love in the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas (Part 1) "You swallow it because it tastes good."
The second coming is here. Katie meets Lisa Kleypas.We're starting in the middle of a series and halfway through Kleypas' catalog. Like Bridgerton, all the secondary characters get their book, but it's not a requirement to read them in order. This story focuses on Beatrix (the quirky girl who loves animals) and Christopher, a war hero with a cute dog and a lot of baggage. Throw in some hidden ide
Pick of the Week: Death's Obsession by Avina St. Graves
Jordan's pick of the week is... *checks notes* dark romance???? Readers, the world is ending, the apocalypse has come, death flies in on soft wings (and he's hot, oh no.) If you've ever thought about banging the grim reaper, Death's Obsession by Avina St. Graves, might be the book for you!https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/128123545-death-s-obsession Similar BooksBelladonna by Adalyn Gracehttps:/
133. Kiss of the Basilisk by Lindsay Straube (Part 2) "Keep it in the family."
Headphones required for this episode, readers. If you've never heard of this book, brace yourself for some unhinged explicit content.Kiss of the Basilisk by Lindsay Straubehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219542918-kiss-of-the-basiliskJoin us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/notanotherheroineSubscribe to our Youtube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@notanotherheroine
Pick of the Week: Flawless by Elsie Silver
Canadian coyboys: they're nicer, but they don't like milk.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125157226-flawlessSimilar BooksThe Bodyguard by Katherine Centerhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724801-the-bodyguardThe Deal by Elle Kennedyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45484397-the-dealLove, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61326735-love-theoreticallyhttps://
132. Kiss of the Basilisk by Lindsay Straube (Part 1) "The clawwww."
Headphones required for this episode, readers. Do not listen with an audience. If you've never heard of this book, brace yourself for some unhinged explicit content. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219542918-kiss-of-the-basilisk https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine
Pick of the Week: Web of Love by Mary Balogh
It's another DNF week and that's all we're going to say about it. Listen at your own risk. Web of Love by Mary Baloghhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/690056.Web_of_LoveSimilar AuthorsJudith McNaught https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9885.Judith_McNaughtLaura Kinsalehttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/23890.Laura_KinsaleGeorgette Heyerhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18067.Georgette_H
131. Radiance by Grace Draven (Part 2) "A wet sack of bricks."
Brishen has got mommy issues for a very valid reason...https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24473763-radiance?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=WMyh7Drrxv&rank=2Similar BooksBride by Ali Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181344829-bride?ref=nav_sb_ss_2_5Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25128811-ice-planet-barbarians?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_21Bio
Pick of the Week: Gypsy Blood by Kristy Cunning
Is every reverse harem heroine an idiot or are they all just designed generically so that they can mesh with any number of MMCs? This is a DNF week and a cry for help. Are they any good reverse harem stories? Even with an urban fantasy setting and a mix of vampires, werewolves, and ghosts, there's nothing redeemable in this book.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43239166-gypsy-bloodSimilar Book
130. Radiance by Grace Draven (Part 1) "The monster mash."
A lobster-scorpion-spider pie? Only if it comes with a side of monster romance, and Grace Draven absolutely delivers.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24473763-radiance?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=WMyh7Drrxv&rank=2https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine
Pick of the Week: Wind and Wildfire by J. D. Evans
This is the prequel for the Mages of the Wheel series, which are all standalone but interconnected stories set in a Middle-East-inspired world. While most of these books have a slow start due to the detailed world-building and complex background plot, the romantic payoff is worth the investment.Wind & Wildfire (Mages of the Wheel #0) by J. D. Evanshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57776839-w
129. K-Pop Demon Hunters (Netflix) "My little soda pop."
What are you doing with your life if you haven't watched this movie yet? Romantasy readers note that shadow daddies, sly humor, and every k-drama trope in the book are scattered throughout this flick. It's not just for kids, check out the lyrics for "Your Idol" if you need a quick preview.https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=cWppAbqm9I8&t=12https://www.netflix.com/title/81498621?sou
Pick of the Week: King of Wrath by Ana Huang
Billionaire daddy boyfriend? A heroine with a spine? Dual first person POV?Yup. It's a Katie pick.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217206738-king-of-wrathSimilar BooksThe Soulmate Equation by Christina Laurenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58438593-the-soulmate-equationThe Sweetest Oblivion by Danielle Lorihttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39083635-the-sweetest-oblivionNot in Love by Ali
128. The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas "A pegasus and a special telescope."
We time-traveled to the 2010s to find this book on a long-forgotten Kindle. Who knew Sherry Thomas, historical romance goddess, also wrote YA romantasy? While this book is filled with tropes and cliches, it's well written and a great rec for a younger reader - or as a palate cleanser after a round of monster smut.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17332556-the-burning-sky?from_search=true&fro
Pick of the Week: The Scattered Bones by Nicole Scarano
The Scattered Bones has a unique plot set up: past and current timelines running concurrently through alternating chapters with vastly different trajectories.Spoilers galore in this review, so please don't listen if this is on your TBR.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/162728103-the-scattered-bonesSimilar BooksCruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodgehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15839984-cruel-beaut
127. Rose in Chains by Julie Soto (Part 2) "How do they get around? Horses? Hmm, I don't know, MAGIC."
Welcome to the roast fest. We tried to have some organization with our commentary, but we were so riled up over this book that we just kept spiraling. Good news: if you liked The Fourth Wing, Zodiac Academy, or A Fate Inked in Blood, then you'll probably enjoy Rose in Chains too. You just may not like this episode.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221179254-rose-in-chains https://patreon.com/
Pick of the Week: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Throne of Glass needs no introduction.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/76703559-throne-of-glassSimilar BooksFourth Wing by Rebecca Yarroshttps://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/61431922-fourth-wingThe Bridge Kingdom by Danielle Jensenhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211081101-the-bridge-kingdomThe Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carsonhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10429092-the-girl-of-fi
126. Rose in Chains by Julie Soto (Part 1) "Mistress Mallow and the girl who can still have kids."
We're trying out a new episode format. This week, we'll cover the synopsis, and next week, we'll analyze specific points, characterizations, and world-building. That established, do NOT listen to this episode if you even remotely enjoyed Rose in Chains.Rose in Chains is a retooling of a Dramione fanfiction, called The Auction. We've done our best to review it on its own merits (there aren't any).
Pick of the Week: The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan
If you like a down-trodden heroine, friends-to-lovers, and lots of science tid-bits, this might be the cupcake for you. Similar BooksEmily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcetthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60657589-emily-wilde-s-encyclopaedia-of-faeriesAli Hazelwoodhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/list/21098177.Ali_HazelwoodSubscribe on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@notanot
125. Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood (Part 2) "Go to your f***** room, right now."
If Connor Harkness tells you to go to your room, you go. We're a little all over the place in our close-out episode for this book. Blame the flashbacks and our general giddiness over Maya and Connor's relationship. Would this same story work if the genders were flipped on the age difference? Check out the k-drama "Encounter" for a TV version and let us know what you think on our IG or channel!http
Pick of the Week: Innocent Monsters by itscometothis
The only thing we trust to break a reading slump? Dramione.This week's pick is slightly outside of Katie's norms. The story takes place during 8th year and is told from Draco's perspective with some found family tropes and cute muggle references sprinkled throughout. Also, novella-sized so don't be afraid to commit to this one (unlike some of the others listed below).https://www.goodreads.com/book
124. Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood (Part 1) "You know it's problematic but you're gonna eat it."
Is every age gap romance problematic? We're here to dive deeper into Ali Hazelwood's most recent book. Maya is not your typical romcom heroine; she's got anger issues, teenage trauma, and isn't afraid to call people out. She's not for everyone, but her romance with Connor feels organic, and the well-paced flashbacks make this book fly by.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228691356-problematic-su
Pick of the Week: The Double
Ready for a c-drama readers? The Double (on Netflix) has every romantasy trope come to life. Our heroine plots the ultimate revenge against her ex-husband and in-laws while bantering and plotting with the mysterious Duke Su. It's Crown Duel meets Poison Study, just freaking watch it!https://www.netflix.com/title/81900131 https://patreon.com/notanotherheroine
123. The Knight and The Moth by Rachel Gillig (Part 2) "Then he leaves her high and dry."
This story ends...predictably, but it's not a terrible ride, especially if you're new to the genre. If you do like your stories heavier on fantasy elements, we recommend you check out Naomi Novik's "Uprooted." If you find yourself itching for more hot wax scenes, check out anything by Carissa Broadbent.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205335957-the-knight-and-the-mothSimilar mentioned in this e
Pick of the Week: Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood
Are you even surprised anymore when you see an Ali Hazelwood episode? Of course Katie read "Problematic Summer Romance," but there's a lot to unpack in this one so we'll cover it in a full episode later this summer. For now, we hope this preview inspires you to read it and share your thoughts on the age-gap debate.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228691356-problematic-summer-romanceSimilar and
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