Fated Mates - Episode 07.24: He's NOT a Billionaire
Release Date: February 25, 2025
Hosts:
- Sarah MacLean – Bestselling romance novelist
- Jen Prokop – Renowned romance critic
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Fated Mates, co-hosts Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop delve deep into the romance genre, specifically focusing on the trope of the billionaire hero. Challenging the conventional archetype, they explore narratives where heroes are ordinary individuals without immense wealth, highlighting the evolving landscape of romance novels.
Main Discussion: Decoding the "He's Not a Billionaire" Trope
Organizing Thoughts and Episode Topics ([00:00] - [03:26])
Sarah initiates the conversation by reflecting on the podcast’s thematic focus, emphasizing their intent to diversify the topics beyond the typical billionaire narratives. She mentions their commitment to exploring ten unique episode topics aimed at broadening the scope of romance literature discussions.
Sarah MacLean [00:25]: “Let's get organized. Here are 10 episode topics.”
The Saturation of Billionaire Archetypes ([03:26] - [06:05])
Jen expresses skepticism about the overabundance of billionaire characters in romance novels, drawing parallels to other media saturated with similar figures. They collectively acknowledge the genre's tendency to default to wealthy heroes, questioning its impact on readers' perceptions of romantic relationships.
Jen Prokop [04:05]: “Sometimes it's a small business owner or sometimes it's a... rock star. And that guy I'll be interested to talk about, but because he has money, but he doesn't live like that.”
Searching for Non-Billionaire Heroes ([06:05] - [19:00])
Sarah and Jen discuss their methodology for selecting books that feature heroes not defined by extreme wealth. They emphasize the importance of character arcs and personal growth over financial status, seeking stories where heroes grapple with personal challenges and societal expectations without relying on wealth as a plot device.
Sarah MacLean [09:15]: “If you want to have the academic conversation about what it means to be not a billionaire in romance, you can't do it without Bev.”
Intersectionality in Romance ([11:39] - [14:26])
The hosts highlight the significance of diversity in romance novels, particularly through the works of Beverly Jenkins, who pioneers historical romances featuring people of color. They discuss how class and wealth intersect with race, enriching the narrative landscape and offering more relatable and varied characters.
Sarah MacLean [11:39]: “He has the money, but he doesn't have that. So, God, somebody's writing a trillionaire romance right now. I just know it.”
Book Reviews: Showcasing Non-Billionaire Heroes
1. Erica Monroe – Rookery Rogues Series ([23:05] - [29:00])
Sarah reviews Erica Monroe’s Rookery Rogues series, set in Victorian-era England's rookeries. The series centers on Mina Mason, the daughter of a gang leader, navigating her constrained life and developing a deep bond with fellow rogue Charlie. The narrative emphasizes personal growth and teamwork over wealth and power.
Sarah MacLean [27:40]: “It's a true example of 'us against the world,' which is a cornerstone of 'He's Not a Billionaire.'”
2. Alice Coldbreath – Substitute Wife for the Prize Fighter ([29:00] - [32:08])
Jen discusses Alice Coldbreath's novel, where Lizzie enters a marriage of convenience with Benedict, a boxer, to expose a corrupt reverend. Their evolving relationship amid societal constraints and personal aspirations exemplifies the theme of ordinary heroes overcoming extraordinary circumstances.
Jen Prokop [31:15]: “The way they come to feel for each other is very carefully drawn.”
3. Lena Hart – In the Morning Sun (Novella) ([32:08] - [36:45])
Sarah highlights Lena Hart's tightly woven novella set in post-Civil War Nebraska. The story follows Madeleine, a schoolteacher, and James, a Canadian veteran with indigenous roots. Their reunion and mutual support amidst societal challenges underscore the essence of non-billionaire romance, focusing on resilience and community impact.
Sarah MacLean [35:44]: “It's an incredibly tight, incredibly short, very romantic novella.”
4. Charlotte Stein – My Big Fat Fake Marriage ([36:45] - [39:55])
Jen reviews Charlotte Stein’s rom-com, where Connie and Beck enter a fake marriage to appease Beck’s secretive marital status. The chemistry and humorous situations highlight the shift from wealth-driven romance to authentic emotional connections.
Jen Prokop [38:45]: “It’s a delight, and you will love listening to it.”
5. K.J. Charles – Sins of the Cities Series ([39:55] - [41:19])
Sarah and Jen explore K.J. Charles’s detective series set in Victorian London, featuring non-wealthy heroes entangled in mysteries. The blend of historical authenticity and character-driven plots reinforces the podcast’s theme of ordinary heroes with extraordinary journeys.
Sarah MacLean [40:15]: “It's a murder and fog book, K.J.”
6. Kayla Gross – Tornado Daddy ([41:19] - [51:50])
Jen delves into Kayla Gross’s Tornado Daddy, a whirlwind romance between Finley, a storm chaser, and Riker, a teacher. Their adventure amidst a natural disaster symbolizes the unpredictable nature of love and the strength found in facing adversity together.
Sarah MacLean [50:44]: “They’re gonna die together in this freaking RAV4 in this tornado before they ever fuck.”
7. Katie Ruggle – Gone Too Deep ([51:50] - [57:35])
Sarah reviews Katie Ruggle's romantic suspense novel, where Ellie Price ventures into the Colorado wilderness to find her estranged father amidst mounting dangers. The interplay between survival and romance underscores the importance of partnership over financial prowess.
Sarah MacLean [56:00]: “There is a through line of sadness and grief in this book.”
8. Lucy Score – Story of My Life ([57:35] - [59:14])
Jen discusses Lucy Score’s Story of My Life, focusing on Hazelhart, a romance novelist battling writer’s block and personal challenges. The introduction of a charming contractor reinvigorates her passion for writing and life, embodying the theme of personal redemption without financial dependency.
Jen Prokop [59:14]: “What can I tell you?”
9. Melanie Green – Common Ground ([59:14] - [85:28])
Sarah and Jen explore Melanie Green’s Common Ground, where Gregory Forst and Livia Delacroix collaborate to revive a family-owned business in a small Texas town. Their budding romance amidst professional challenges exemplifies the essence of non-billionaire romance grounded in mutual respect and shared goals.
Jen Prokop [85:28]: “It's a great example of community in romance.”
10. Peyton Corinne – Unloved ([85:28] - [95:20])
Jen reviews Peyton Corinne’s Unloved, featuring Freddie Frederick, a talented hockey player with learning disabilities, and Ro Sharif, his dedicated tutor. Their relationship develops through overcoming personal and societal hurdles, highlighting the transformative power of love and support.
Jen Prokop [90:09]: “I'm not mad about it.”
11. Megan Frampton – Devil's Charm ([95:20] - [105:32])
Sarah introduces Megan Frampton’s Devil's Charm, a tale of Lucien, a duke’s son, and Diantha, an earl’s daughter. Their forced collaboration to save their families’ businesses amid ancestral rivalries weaves a classic enemies-to-lovers narrative enriched with humor and genuine chemistry.
Jen Prokop [99:30]: “They have hilarious situations and lots of smooching.”
12. Additional Mentions:
- Lauren Sattersby – Rock and Soul,
- Jenny Holiday – Into the Woods,
- Tati Richardson – Losing Sight, and more were briefly touched upon, showcasing the diversity and depth available within non-billionaire romance narratives.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sarah and Jen conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to explore the reviewed titles that break away from the traditional billionaire tropes, advocating for more relatable and character-driven romance stories. They emphasize the importance of diverse narratives in enriching the romance genre and challenging societal expectations.
Notable Quotes:
- Sarah MacLean [19:00]: “What does it mean to be a man in uniform, because I think that is a different kind of king.”
- Jen Prokop [85:28]: “I love that one.”
Recommendations:
- Fellow Romance Enthusiasts: Embrace these novels that prioritize personal growth, community, and genuine emotional connections over financial status.
- Authors: Consider exploring non-traditional archetypes to create more relatable and diverse characters.
- Listeners: Engage with the podcast’s additional resources via their website and social media for deeper insights and community discussions.
Stay Connected:
- Website: fatedmates.net
- Instagram: @fatedmatespod
- Discord: Access through Patreon for exclusive content and community interaction.
Upcoming Events:
- Southwest Florida Reading Festival (March 1st): Join Sarah MacLean alongside Julie Soto and Ali Hazelwood for discussions on romance literature.
Sponsor Highlights:
- Piper Raine: Mr. Heartbreaker
- Charlotte Stein: My Big Fat Fake Marriage
- 1001 Dark Nights: Billionaire romance anthologies
- Megan Frampton: Devil's Charm
Final Thoughts: This episode of Fated Mates successfully challenges the conventional romance narrative by spotlighting heroes who are defined by their personal journeys rather than their wealth. Sarah and Jen offer a refreshing take on romance literature, advocating for stories that resonate on a deeper, more authentic level.