Episode Summary: "Romance on the Run" – Fated Mates Podcast (Episode 07.31)
Release Date: April 16, 2025
Host/Author: Sarah McLean and Jennifer Prokop
Podcast Description: Fated Mates is the most listened-to romance novel podcast, co-hosted by bestselling author Sarah McLean and romance critic Jennifer Prokop. Each week, they engage in lively discussions, read-alongs, and explore the powerful role of romance novels in challenging societal norms—all while embracing diverse perspectives without judgment.
Overview
In episode 07.31: Romance on the Run, Sarah McLean and Jennifer Prokop delve deep into the "On the Run" trope within romance novels. They explore the elements that make this trope captivating, discuss classic and contemporary examples, and review newly released books that embody this exhilarating theme.
Understanding the "On the Run" Trope
Sarah and Jennifer begin by defining the "On the Run" trope, highlighting its foundation in romantic suspense where protagonists are either escaping danger or pursuing someone under high-stakes circumstances.
Sarah McLean [13:12]:
"When you're talking about 'On the Run', there's this sense of, like, these people are trying to either escape something or outrun something. So we sort of naturally know we're in a ticking clock situation."
Jennifer Prokop [13:38]:
"You're not gonna be bored. Not gonna be bored. It's like reading an action movie."
Key Elements That Make "On the Run" Effective
The hosts outline several essential elements that make "On the Run" romances compelling:
- Ticking Clock: Protagonists face a deadline, adding tension and urgency.
- Character Competence and Growth: Typically, one character is highly skilled (e.g., CIA agent) while the other discovers hidden strengths.
- Secrets and Suspense: Often, one character harbors a secret that threatens to unravel the relationship and escalate the danger.
Sarah McLean [15:06]:
"The heroine has a big secret that she's keeping from the hero throughout the book... it is a huge clubbing moment when he realizes she's not aware of how serious the secret is."
Classic Examples Discussed
Sarah and Jennifer revisit classic "On the Run" romance novels, analyzing their structures and memorable moments.
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Kressley Cole's "The Master":
Sarah references this deep dive from a previous episode, emphasizing the climactic reveal of the heroine’s secret.Sarah McLean [16:48]:
"When she picks up the phone and she calls him because she doesn't have anybody else to call... it is the climactic moment of the book that is perfect." -
"Run Posey Run" by Kressley Cole:
Jennifer discusses Posey's complex relationship with Daario and her struggle within a mobster-influenced life.Jennifer Prokop [24:22]:
"It's a dark romance. Define as you like, but it's a pretty perfect romance." -
"Burn Down the Night" by Molly O'Keefe:
Sarah highlights the heroine's kidnapping by the hero and their ensuing partnership in overcoming past traumas.Sarah McLean [30:10]:
"This is a perfect example of... the heroine has a secret that disrupts everything."
New Releases and Reviews
The episode features in-depth reviews of new and upcoming "On the Run" romance novels, offering listeners fresh recommendations.
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"If I Told You, I'd Have to Kiss You" by S.E. McPherson:
Jennifer reviews this polyamorous fantasy romance involving royal dynamics and ancient magic.Jennifer Prokop [21:00]:
"If you love a polyamorous fantasy romance with enemies to lovers and royal bodyguard vibes, this one is gonna be perfect for you." -
"Stranded" by Jennifer D. Bokel:
Part of the "Texas Law Fine" series, Jennifer discusses the survival romance between Ava and Brett following a helicopter crash.Jennifer Prokop [51:48]:
"It is a terrific read. It was really fun and super suspenseful." -
"The Harpy and the Dragon" by Marie Lipscomb:
Sarah reviews this continuation of the "Hearts of Black Mirror" series, focusing on Henry’s redemption and his partnership with heroine Honora.Sarah McLean [58:31]:
"Another great moment, he confesses... 'I stabbed...'. She goes 'all noble people need to be stabbed at some point'..." -
"Bourbon and Lies" by Victoria Wilder:
Jennifer covers this historical romance featuring the Fox brothers and heroine Laney, an event planner in witness protection.Jennifer Prokop [71:51]:
"You need to trust me and pre-order this book. It is five bucks." -
"Hunted in Italy" by Delaney Diamond:
Jennifer previews this upcoming book featuring Zaire Nichols and ex-Navy Seal agent Buck Swanson as they escape terror plots in Rome.Jennifer Prokop [82:04]:
"She manages to record part of it and is like, I gotta get out of here."
Competency and Mutual Support
A recurring theme is the balance of competence between protagonists. One is typically highly skilled, while the other discovers unexpected strengths, fostering mutual support and growth.
Jennifer Prokop [19:20]:
"One of them is a Navy SEAL or the CIA agent... the other discovers hidden reserves of strength."
Community and Discoverability
The hosts emphasize the importance of community in discovering new books. They discuss their partnership with Pagebound, encouraging listeners to join their quest for deep dive books and engage with fellow romance enthusiasts.
Sarah McLean [06:32]:
"Now listen, immediately when we launched this, a bunch of people on the discord were like, we deserve bigger medals. There should be better medals."
Notable Quotes
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Sarah McLean [13:12]:
"When you're talking about 'On the Run', there's this sense of, like, these people are trying to either escape something or outrun something." -
Jennifer Prokop [13:38]:
"You're not gonna be bored. Not gonna be bored. It's like reading an action movie." -
Jennifer Prokop [21:00]:
"If you love a polyamorous fantasy romance with enemies to lovers and royal bodyguard vibes, this one is gonna be perfect for you." -
Sarah McLean [15:06]:
"The heroine has a big secret that she's keeping from the hero throughout the book... it is a huge clubbing moment."
Conclusion
Sarah and Jennifer wrap up the episode by reaffirming the allure of "On the Run" romances. They highlight how these stories blend suspense, character development, and high-stakes scenarios to create memorable and engaging narratives. Listeners are encouraged to explore both classic and new titles within the trope to fully appreciate its depth and excitement.
Sarah McLean [92:10]:
"If you're a true crime reader, like these romantic suspense books probably would feel really like what you mean, like... existential danger."
Recommendations
Listeners are encouraged to:
- Visit the Fated Mates Website: Explore the full list of recommended books and participate in community surveys.
- Join the Pagebound Quest: Engage with other romance enthusiasts and discover new reads.
- Pre-Order Upcoming Releases: Ensure you don't miss out on anticipated titles by securing your copies early.
Sarah McLean [93:34]:
"You can find us every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts."
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the "Romance on the Run" episode, highlighting key discussions, book reviews, and notable insights while adhering to the user's request to exclude advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections.