Podcast Summary: Fated Mates - A Romance Novel Podcast
Episode: 07.15: Holiday Romances for 2024: Put It in the Lilly Library
Release Date: December 18, 2024
Introduction
In the festive episode titled "Holiday Romances for 2024: Put It in the Lilly Library," co-hosts Sarah MacLean, a bestselling romance author, and Jen Prokop, a seasoned romance critic, delve into the enchanting world of holiday-themed romance novels. The episode celebrates the power of romance literature in challenging societal norms while maintaining a lighthearted and inclusive atmosphere.
Exploring the Lilly Library's Romance Collection
Jen Prokop shares her exhilarating experience visiting the Lilly Library at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. The library recently acquired a remarkable collection of rare romance novels curated by Rebecca Romney, a renowned romance bibliophile.
Jen [07:07]: "It was like going to church for us."
Jen describes the library's exhibit as a "beautiful, wooden display" housing sections dedicated to various romance genres, including young adult, historical, and inspirational romances. She highlights the significance of seeing a first edition of Pride and Prejudice, emphasizing the library's dedication to showcasing romance literature's rich history.
Sarah MacLean echoes Jen's sentiments, expressing her admiration for the meticulous curation and the "museum-like treatment" of romance novels.
Sarah [10:34]: "I am glad you got to do it and I'm glad you got to do it with so many other people who love romance."
The hosts encourage listeners within driving distance of Bloomington to visit the exhibit, noting its limited availability from fall through mid-February.
Navigating the World of Audiobooks
Transitioning from libraries to digital media, Sarah takes an introspective look into her recent foray into audiobooks, juxtaposing her initial reluctance with newfound appreciation.
Sarah [14:34]: "I did a thing. And I downloaded it in audio and then took...listen to this book."
She discusses various platforms for accessing audiobooks, including Libby, Hoopla, Audible, Spotify, Libro.fm, and Chirp, detailing their unique features, benefits, and drawbacks. Jen provides insights into optimizing audiobook experiences, such as selecting appropriate narration speeds and understanding different narration styles like full cast versus single narrator.
Jen [19:13]: "There is a big discussion between the types of narration, right? So you have like full cast audio..."
The conversation underscores the importance of supporting narrators and authors through platforms that offer fair royalties, highlighting Julia Whelan's Audio Brary as a commendable initiative.
Sarah [31:15]: "We need to stand alongside our narrators, writers, because they deserve. They are selling a lot of books for us, and they deserve a cut."
Holiday Romance Book Recommendations
The core of the episode revolves around Sarah and Jen presenting a curated list of 13 holiday romance novels set to delight readers during the festive season. Each recommendation is accompanied by a detailed synopsis and personal reflections from the hosts.
1. Brutal Prince by Sophie Lark
Sophie Lark introduces a riveting mafia romance where Callum, the Irish mafia leader, and Aida, from the Italian mafia side, navigate an arranged marriage amidst rival family tensions. The book is lauded for its blend of action, humor, and sizzling chemistry between the protagonists.
Jen [35:22]: "It's going to be rivals to lovers, which is gonna delight."
2. The Nightmare Before Christmas by Sarah Roche
A romantasy inspired by the Tim Burton classic, this novel follows Cole Claus, heir to Christmas, who resents the commercialization of the holiday. His confrontation with Hex Halloween, the prince of Halloween, ignites a passionate and magical romance, embodying the whimsical essence of the original film.
Sarah [41:32]: "This is a perfect book."
3. Pregnant Enemy Christmas Bride by Maisy Yates
A Harlequin Presents title, this story centers on Florence, a corporate powerhouse, and Hades, a fellow executive and recovering alcoholic. Their secret affair amidst corporate rivalry culminates in a dramatic Christmas wedding, blending emotional depth with steamy romance.
Jen [49:39]: "It's a Christmas wedding, and so then they... have this amazing night together."
4. Ash and the Butterfly by Lark Maitland
Set in the Regency era, this novel features Luke Ashburton, a scientist, and Grace Chetwood, a mathematician. Tasked with deciphering the late Earl of Bexley's coded journals, their professional collaboration evolves into a captivating romance filled with intellectual synergy and emotional growth.
Sarah [50:35]: "It sounds amazing."
5. Kingpin's Nanny by Evie Rose
Part of the Only Santas series, Bella, a nanny, and Lucas Knight, a London mafia head, engage in a turbulent romance during the holiday season. Their tangled relationship explores themes of power, desire, and redemption within a holiday-themed mafia setting.
Jen [57:28]: "You're going to really have a lovely time with this."
6. From Meltdown to Mistletoe by Jessica Terry
A short holiday romance, this novella follows Kia Love, a resilient waitress, and Jaleel Dunn, her high school acquaintance. Set against a backdrop of personal struggles and seasonal festivities, their unexpected reunion sparks a heartwarming and intense romance.
Jen [62:07]: "It was a delight. I read it in 30 minutes."
7. Merry Little Mishap by Vivian May
Elena, a magazine worker in NYC, and Nick, her charming superintendent, find themselves navigating an awkward yet passionate relationship after a series of humorous and intimate encounters. The story emphasizes awkward intimacy and emotional connection during the holidays.
Sarah [65:19]: "They're very cute characters."
8. Snowed In by Katherine Walsh
This dual-perspective novel features Bea, who reunites with her high school crush Christian during a snowstorm in Ireland. Their rekindled relationship explores themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the magic of unexpected reunions amidst holiday chaos.
Jen [71:34]: "I was super delighted by it."
9. I'll Be Gone for Christmas by Georgia K. Boone
A holiday retelling reminiscent of "The Holiday," this story involves Bea, who swaps homes with Clover Mills through a house-swapping service. Set in Salem, Ohio, the narrative explores love, identity, and the healing power of second chances during Christmas.
Jen [83:12]: "It's so cute."
10. Return to Love by Tara Pammy
This intense novella portrays Matthew Prince and his estranged wife Bea reconnecting after years apart. Amidst emotional turmoil and rekindled passion, their journey back to each other is both deeply romantic and sexually charged, embodying the complexities of long-term relationships during the holidays.
Jen [100:15]: "It was so deep and intense."
11. Deadlines Donuts and Dreidels by Jennifer Wilk
An interfaith romance, Jessica Sachs, a Brooklyn reporter, reconnects with her high school crush Thomas Carville, now a recovering alcoholic fireman. The novel navigates religious differences, personal healing, and rediscovered love against a Christmas backdrop.
Sarah [101:25]: "It's one of those stories that really is mining the idea that like at the holidays there are ways in which people can find each other."
12. Fortune's Holiday Surprise by Jennifer Wilk
Part of the Fortunes of Texas series, this book follows Arlo Fortune, who adopts his late best friend's daughter, and Carrie Kaplan, his sister-in-law. Together, they navigate grief, family dynamics, and unexpected romance during the holiday season.
Jen [107:31]: "These two people who are devastated by loss come together to make a family."
13. Holiday Honeymoon Moon Switch by Julia McKay
Best friends Holly and Ivy switch their planned honeymoon destinations after Holly's fiancé jilts her. In separate but interconnected stories in the Hudson Valley and Hawaii, they each find love and personal growth, emphasizing the power of friendship and self-discovery during the holidays.
Jen [89:40]: "It's just like of two people just seeing each other, you know, which is like the best.”
Conclusion and Wrap-Up
As the episode draws to a close, Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop reflect on the diverse selection of holiday romances they’ve explored, each offering unique takes on love, resilience, and the festive spirit. They encourage listeners to share their favorite holiday romances and remind them to check the show notes for links to all recommended books and additional podcast episodes.
Sarah [108:45]: "Have a great holiday, everyone."
The hosts sign off with warm holiday wishes, promising a return with an exciting New Year's episode featuring special guests and a new romance read-along.
Notable Quotes
- Jen [07:07]: "It was like going to church for us."
- Sarah [10:34]: "I am glad you got to do it and I'm glad you got to do it with so many other people who love romance."
- Jen [35:22]: "It's going to be rivals to lovers, which is gonna delight."
- Jen [49:39]: "It's a Christmas wedding, and so then they... have this amazing night together."
- Sarah [31:15]: "We need to stand alongside our narrators, writers, because they deserve. They are selling a lot of books for us, and they deserve a cut."
- Jen [57:28]: "You're going to really have a lovely time with this."
- Jen [62:07]: "It was a delight. I read it in 30 minutes."
- Jen [71:34]: "I was super delighted by it."
- Jen [83:12]: "It's so cute."
- Jen [100:15]: "It was so deep and intense."
- Sarah [101:25]: "It's one of those stories that really is mining the idea that like at the holidays there are ways in which people can find each other."
- Jen [107:31]: "These two people who are devastated by loss come together to make a family."
- Jen [89:40]: "It's just like of two people just seeing each other, you know, which is like the best.”
Final Thoughts
"Holiday Romances for 2024: Put It in the Lilly Library" serves as a comprehensive guide for romance enthusiasts seeking heartwarming and emotionally resonant reads during the festive season. Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop expertly blend personal anecdotes, critical insights, and passionate recommendations, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of holiday love stories.
For more information and to explore the recommended books, visit fatedmates.net and follow Fated Mates on their social media platforms.