Fated Mates - A Romance Novel Podcast
Episode S07:11: Best Romance Novels of 2024
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Hosts:
Sarah MacLean – Bestselling romance novelist
Jen Prokop – Romance critic and read editor
Overview
In this highly anticipated episode of Fated Mates, co-hosts Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop delve into their curated list of the Best Romance Novels of 2024. Balancing their roles as an author and a critic, the duo offers insightful commentary on each selection, highlighting the evolving landscape of the romance genre. Their discussion not only celebrates the year's standout titles but also explores the deeper themes and trends shaping contemporary romance literature.
The Responsibility of Curating Best-of-Year Lists
The episode begins with Sarah and Jen reflecting on the pressures and responsibilities that come with creating a "Best of the Year" list. Jen expresses a profound sense of responsibility, stating, “this is the episode where I feel the greatest sense of responsibility” ([01:29]). They discuss the emotional weight of selecting books that resonate deeply with them and their audience, emphasizing the importance of editorial integrity and avoiding personal biases.
Sarah adds, “I sometimes think... it's like prematurely ejaculating to put a lit book on the list” ([00:22]). This metaphor underscores their careful deliberation in choosing titles that not only shine individually but also represent the genre's strengths.
Best Romance Novels of 2024
1. A Love Song for Ricky Wilde by Tia Williams
Plot Summary:
Ricky Wilde, a florist from a wealthy Atlanta family known for their funeral homes, pursues her dream in New York. She meets the enigmatic Ezra, who is cursed, making their love seemingly impossible. Their journey intertwines with magical elements and deep emotional connections.
Insights:
Jen praises Ricky's boldness, noting, “she's just like bold and brash and kind of gonna follow her dream” ([17:50]). The book's integration of historical Harlem and modern romantic struggles is highlighted as a unique blend that captivates readers.
Notable Quote:
Jen remarks, “Every book on the list is a book that I couldn't put down” ([07:47]).
2. The Last Days of Lila Good Luck by Kylie Scott
Plot Summary:
Lila Goodluck, a librarian, saves a woman from traffic who turns out to be a witch. She receives ominous predictions, including her impending death, leading her to create a bucket list and meet Alistair, a royal figure, challenging her fate.
Insights:
Sarah connects the book's magical realism with overarching themes of destiny and personal agency. She shares, “Ricky Wilde has all that time stuff. Lila Goodlock has the Witch Rules for Ghosting has an actual ghost” ([86:38]).
Notable Quote:
Sarah expresses emotional attachment, “It is really a beautiful book about time and who we want to be” ([22:18]).
3. Everyone I Kissed Since You Got Famous by May Marvel
Plot Summary:
Katie Price, a former movie star escaping an abusive marriage, reunites with her high school best friend Will Green, who has a unique TikTok where she kisses strangers. Their reconnection delves into past secrets and present healing.
Insights:
Jen commends the book for its slow-burn romance and the authentic portrayal of complex friendships and past trauma. She notes, “May Marvel knew exactly what they were gonna do and then, like, did it” ([28:10]).
Notable Quote:
Jen appreciates the gentle build, saying, “It's a beautiful book about building feelings carefully over time” ([27:18]).
4. Heart of the Hawk by Lois Templin
Plot Summary:
Hawk Grogan, the king’s most trusted knight, is sent to Hawksburg Castle to investigate treason. There, he encounters Lady Alice, leading to a gripping enemies-to-lovers dynamic amidst medieval intrigue.
Insights:
Sarah praises the classic medieval romance elements, including brooding heroes and complex loyalties. She highlights the chemistry between Hawk and Alice, stating, “Can we trust each other? If you also love medievals and enemies to lovers...” ([34:37]).
Notable Quote:
Sarah enthusiastically declares, “Heart of the Hawk is for you” ([34:31]).
5. Lips Like Sugar by Jess Hardy
Plot Summary:
Mira, a small-town baker with a tumultuous personal life, reconnects with Cole, a former punk rock drummer. Their evolving relationship navigates past secrets and present challenges, blending romance with personal growth.
Insights:
Jen admires the depth of characters and the realistic portrayal of long-distance relationships. She remarks, “Love starts to look different... with great relationships, you really feel like they are at an impasse” ([41:36]).
Notable Quote:
Jen emphasizes the authenticity, “This is a book about decent people who fall in love” ([42:14]).
6. The Beast Takes a Bride by Julie Ann Long
Plot Summary:
Alexandra, wrongly imprisoned, encounters Colonel Magnus Brightwall after five years separated by war. Their forced proximity in a medieval setting leads to a tumultuous romance filled with duty and longing.
Insights:
Sarah highlights Julie Ann Long’s masterful storytelling and character development, noting, “Julieann Long's writing is amazing” ([44:00]). The balance between humor and emotional depth captivates the hosts.
Notable Quote:
Sarah shares, “Was completely in it right now” ([44:28]).
7. Bossman by Vi Keeland
Plot Summary:
Rhys endures a terrible first date until Chase, her handsome alpha male boss, intervenes. Their professional relationship evolves into a passionate and intense romance marked by workplace dynamics.
Insights:
Jen appreciates the alpha male trope executed with flair, stating, “He’s going to relentlessly pursue” ([51:23]). The chemistry and sexual tension are highlighted as standout elements.
Notable Quote:
Sarah teases, “He is gonna be a great dirty talker” ([52:28]).
8. No Ordinary Duchess by Elizabeth Hoyt
Plot Summary:
Julian, heir to a dukedom with a tumultuous past, and Lady Elspeth, a wise woman trained in a secret society, navigate their conflicted relationship amidst family drama and societal expectations.
Insights:
Jen commends the book's layered narrative and rich character dynamics, saying, “This is a book that had a lot to say about duty... and it turns out that one of the reasons why Julian thinks he is just...” ([71:42]).
Notable Quote:
Sarah remarks on the emotional depth, “I have this on my shelf because of you” ([28:04]).
9. Hans by S.J. Dilley
Plot Summary:
Hans, an assassin with a haunted past, is irresistibly drawn to his new neighbor Cassie. Their unexpected romance unfolds amidst dangerous missions and personal redemption.
Insights:
Jen is captivated by the intense emotions and over-the-top romance, describing it as a book she couldn’t put down, “[...] everything about this book delighted me” ([62:54]).
Notable Quote:
Jen shares her enthusiasm, “I could read that again” ([63:57]).
10. Rules for Ghosting by Shelley J. Shore
Plot Summary:
Ezra, a trans doula who can see ghosts, grapples with family chaos and personal trauma. He meets Jonathan, a widower, leading to a heartfelt romance that explores healing and understanding.
Insights:
Sarah applauds the book for its portrayal of love as a healing force, highlighting the deep connection between Ezra and Jonathan. She notes, “This is a book that really just shows, like, there is a time when people just feel like they are at an impasse” ([76:51]).
Notable Quote:
Sarah emphasizes the therapeutic aspect of romance, “What Shelly J. Shore is doing here is...” ([79:46]).
Themes and Trends in 2024 Romance
Throughout the episode, Sarah and Jen identify several prevailing themes in the Best of 2024 list:
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Magical Realism and Fantastical Elements: Many selected books incorporate elements like curses, witches, and ghosts, blending romance with fantasy to create immersive narratives.
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Complex Character Dynamics: The hosts appreciate romances that delve into characters' personal struggles, family histories, and societal roles, adding depth to the romantic plot.
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Diverse Representation: The list showcases a range of protagonists, including trans characters and diverse cultural backgrounds, reflecting the genre's commitment to inclusivity.
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Healing and Personal Growth: Several picks emphasize the transformative power of love, portraying relationships that help characters overcome past traumas and personal challenges.
Jen Prokop observes, “These big families are definitely... there are more big families in romance this year than ever before” ([86:34]), noting the increased focus on familial relationships within romantic storylines.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Responsibility of Lists:
Jen: “this is the episode where I feel the greatest sense of responsibility” ([01:29]) -
Book Selection Process:
Sarah: “I can tell you if a book is a good romance” ([11:09]) -
Engagement with Choices:
Sarah: “Every book on the list is a book that I couldn't put down” ([07:47]) -
Emotional Connections:
Jen: “This is a book about decent people who fall in love” ([42:14]) -
Enthusiasm for Picks:
Jen: “I could read that again” ([63:57]) -
Healing Through Love:
Sarah: “What Shelly J. Shore is doing here is...” ([79:46])
Conclusion
Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop conclude the episode by reaffirming their passion for romance novels and encouraging listeners to explore the featured titles. They emphasize the genre's power to foster emotional connections and promote healing, celebrating the diverse narratives that define modern romance. The hosts also highlight the importance of supporting indie bookstores, reinforcing the community-centric ethos of the romance reading world.
Sarah closes with:
“Enjoy yourselves, treat yourselves because we all deserve it more than ever this year” ([87:13]).
Jen adds:
“Thanks for listening, thanks for reading and thanks for romance” ([88:47]).
Listeners are invited to access full lists and order their curated Best of 2024 boxes through the Fated Mates website, supporting local indie booksellers and embracing the rich variety of romance literature.
Stay Connected:
For more details on the books discussed and to purchase your Best of 2024 box, visit fatedmates.netbestof.
Happy reading and happy romance!