Episode 07.39: Dysfunctional Families (The Fun Kind) Fated Mates - Romance Books for Novel People
Release Date: June 17, 2025
Hosts: Sarah MacLean & Jen Prokop

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Fated Mates, co-hosts bestselling author Sarah MacLean and romance critic Jen Prokop dive deep into the intricate portrayal of dysfunctional families within romance novels. They explore how these complex family dynamics not only shape characters but also enrich romantic storylines, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of love amidst chaos.

Community Spotlight: Derek Craven Day (00:00 – 02:19)

The episode opens with Sarah sharing a heartfelt message from an Australian fan celebrating Derek Craven Day, emphasizing the community's appreciation for his contributions to the romance genre.

• Sarah MacLean [00:00]: "So somebody messaged me on threads today, and I thought it would be fun to bring this to the table."

• Jen Prokop [00:23]: "And I replied, February 4th."

They confirm February 4th as the official Derek Craven Day, celebrating his legacy and influence within the romance novel community.

Fated Mates Live & Upcoming Releases (02:19 – 05:50)

Sarah announces the upcoming Fated Mates Live event in St. Louis on July 8th, coinciding with her new book release, These Summer Storms. She details ticket availability and addresses website navigation improvements to enhance listener access.

Jen shares her enthusiasm for revisiting Susan Elizabeth Phillips' backlist, currently on sale, encouraging listeners to rediscover beloved titles as a rewarding summer activity.

Exploring Dysfunctional Families in Romance (05:50 – 80:58)

Defining Dysfunction in Romance (09:12 – 19:23)

Jen introduces the core topic by referencing a Psychology Today article outlining the five major types of dysfunctional families. This framework sets the stage for analyzing their representation in romance novels.

Type 1: It’s Not Us, It’s Them (10:35 – 12:03)

Sarah cites Nikki Sloan's The Initiation through the Redemption as an example of families blaming external factors. The narrative showcases a wealthy family entrenched in patriarchal norms, leading to morally ambiguous situations that test familial and romantic bonds.

• Sarah MacLean [10:58]: "These are families who, like, families are very wealthy. The mother is dead. The father is married to a stepmother..."

Type 2: Preoccupation with Reputation (19:10 – 20:58)

The discussion shifts to families obsessed with societal perceptions, often depicted through affluent settings. They reference Joanna Shoup's Uptown Girls series and Nikki Sloan's works, highlighting the pressure to maintain a flawless public image despite internal turmoil.

Type 3: Identified Patient Family (25:46 – 37:14)

Jen discusses families that place blame on a single member, using Angelina M. Lopez's After Hours on Milagros Street as a case study. The protagonist grapples with being labeled the "problem child," leading to personal and relational conflicts that drive the romantic plot.

• Jen Prokop [25:46]: "There's always one who is to blame. Right, Right."

Type 4: Unreliable and Inconsistent Families (38:25 – 55:32)

Unpredictable and chaotic family structures are explored through historical romance lenses. They reference Neva Altej's series, illustrating how trauma and instability within families influence character development and romantic relationships.

• Jen Prokop [42:11]: "There's this great series by Neva Altej, and in this one, it's the last. It's called Darkest Sins..."

Type 5: Just Trying to Survive (51:36 – 58:08)

Families enduring significant hardships are examined, emphasizing resilience and survival. Sarah highlights Jeannie Chin's Cedar Fall series, where sibling dynamics and communal support underscore the romantic narratives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sarah MacLean [12:28]: "These books. God, they're so hot. Redemption is so hot. I'm gonna have to go read it again."

• Jen Prokop [30:56]: "Jimmy Ferris, right, like, he sort of is like, a fuck you. He was like, the first pills I ever took, I stole from her."

Spotlight on Recommended Reads

Susan Elizabeth Phillips' Backlist (05:50 – 08:43)

Jen shares her enthusiasm for revisiting Susan Elizabeth Phillips' novels, noting their enduring appeal and current eBook sales.

• Jen Prokop [07:00]: "It's a sport of its own."

Sarah's Upcoming Release: These Summer Storms (02:19 – 04:05)

Sarah previews her new book, detailing its setting on a private island with a billionaire's death sparking familial and romantic tensions.

Sponsorship Messages

Throughout the episode, Sarah and Jen seamlessly integrate sponsorships, promoting books that align with the episode's themes:

• Amy James' Crash Test: A Formula One romance exploring love amidst high-stakes racing.

• Kristen Jennings' Lessons from a Tour Guide: A modern romance set against the backdrop of a bustling travel agency.

• J.L. Birchwood's Power Ballad: A Metal Mayhem Festival Romance: A spirited love story unfolding at a heavy metal festival.

Each sponsorship includes detailed summaries and purchasing options, enhancing listener engagement.

Conclusion: Embracing Complex Families (65:22 – 80:58)

Sarah and Jen wrap up the episode by reflecting on the multifaceted portrayals of dysfunctional families in romance novels. They emphasize the importance of nuanced family dynamics, advocating for the portrayal of both biological and found families as sources of support and love.

• Sarah MacLean [81:08]: "If you do come from a dysfunctional family, just know that you're not alone and that romance has got you. Jen and I have got you."

They reassure listeners that, despite familial challenges, romance literature offers narratives of healing, understanding, and enduring love.

Final Thoughts

Episode 07.39 of Fated Mates offers a comprehensive exploration of dysfunctional families within the romance genre, enriched by personal anecdotes, literary examples, and community engagement. Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop provide invaluable insights into how these complex relationships drive compelling romantic narratives, making it a must-listen for romance enthusiasts seeking depth and authenticity in their favorite genre.

Connect with Fated Mates:

• Website: fatedmates.net
• Live Events: Tickets available at tickets@fatedmates.net
• Social Media: Available on Blue Sky, Instagram, and Threads

Pre-order Sarah MacLean's These Summer Storms here.

Thank you for joining Sarah and Jen on another insightful episode of Fated Mates!