Flights of Fantasy Podcast Summary
Episode: Season 5, Episode 10 – Current Romance Reads
Release Date: April 15, 2025
Hosts: Anna, Kim, and Christina
Description: In this engaging episode, the hosts dive deep into their latest romance reads, sharing detailed reviews, recommended titles across various sub-genres, and personal anecdotes. Packed with heart, humor, and insightful discussions, this episode is a treasure trove for romance enthusiasts seeking their next great read.
1. Welcome and Introduction (01:21 - 04:05)
Anna kicks off the episode by greeting listeners and introducing her co-hosts, Kim and Christina. The trio expresses their excitement about sharing their curated list of current romance reads, emphasizing that these books are their "book hangovers" and "palette cleansers" that bring joy and refreshment to their reading lives.
Anna: "These are books that are our book hangovers. Our palette cleansers bring us so much joy..."
2. Patreon Highlights and Patron Shoutouts (02:05 - 04:05)
The hosts extend their gratitude to listeners who have rated and reviewed the show, underscoring the importance of community support. They also highlight exclusive Patreon content, including a special episode featuring the first annual Throne of Glass trivia and the ongoing deep dives into Sarah J. Maas's character Celayna.
Christina: "I bring a Taylor Swift lyric every time I do a Patreon shout out... 'I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you.'"
3. Current Romance Reads – Kindle Unlimited Recommendations (04:05 - 16:24)
Anna leads the discussion on Kindle Unlimited (KU) romance reads, covering a variety of sub-genres and tropes.
a. Until It Was Love by Pippa Grant (05:00 - 06:10)
The first book in the Copper Valley Pounders Rugby Series, this sports romance features a grumpy rugby player resembling Roy Kent from Ted Lasso and a sunshiny female lead. The plot revolves around a fake dating arrangement that evolves into genuine feelings amidst humorous banter.
Anna: "He's the grumpiest grump. And she is very, like, sunshiny."
b. Wild About You by Rebecca Jinshak (06:41 - 07:38)
Part of the Wildcats Hockey Series by the author of Burnout, this second chance romance follows Tyler and Piper, high school sweethearts reunited under challenging circumstances as Tyler becomes the guardian of Piper’s teenage sister.
Christina: "The found family vibes are so beautiful. They all help her with her homework..."
c. Skate the Line by S.J. Silvis (07:38 - 09:18)
From the Blue Devils Hockey Series, this book introduces Rhodes, a grumpy single dad and hockey player, and his interaction with a protective nanny. The story combines sports romance with emotional depth and engaging character dynamics.
Anna: "He speaks Russian to her, which I just love so much."
d. Magnolia Fall Series by Laura Pavlov (09:21 - 11:43)
A small-town romance series praised for its "found family" elements and diverse romance tropes, including enemies-to-lovers, brothers' best friends, and single dad narratives. Each book offers a standalone story within the cohesive series framework.
Anna: "Marriage of convenience, childhood best friends to lovers, grumpy sunshines, fake dating..."
e. Broken Harbor by Katherine Coles (11:43 - 13:43)
The third installment in the Sparrow Falls series blends romantic suspense with a hockey romance backdrop. Set against a backdrop of danger and protective love, the story follows Sutton, a badass single mom with a traumatic past, and Cope, her brother's hockey coach.
Anna: "Sutton and Luca melt these walls. ... It was everything I wanted."
4. Exclusive Patreon Content Highlights (13:43 - 17:26)
The hosts discuss exclusive Patreon content where Anna reviews additional KU romance books, including Filthy Rich Fae by Geneva Lee, Wingman by Stephanie Archer, Struck Out by Sadie Kincaid, and When She Falls by Gabrielle Sands. These reviews offer spoiler-free insights and deep dives into various sub-genres like mafia romance and deeply romantic narratives.
Anna: "If you have not read Mafia before, I think this is a great intro. ... It was everything I wanted."
5. Current Romance Reads – Non-Kindle Unlimited Recommendations (16:24 - 36:16)
Switching gears to non-KU titles, the hosts explore a selection of published romance books, each bringing unique stories and fresh perspectives.
a. Beg, Borrow or Steal by Sarah Adams (21:10 - 24:17)
Set in the When in Rome series, this standalone novel features second-grade teachers Emily Walker and Jack Bennett, who harbor secret romance writing careers. Their "love to hate" dynamic leads to endearing and flirty interactions.
Christina: "It's a really well written. It's so cute."
b. Deep End by Ali Hazelwood (24:19 - 38:59)
Originally titled Wet, this story follows Scarlet, a competitive diver, and Penn, a swimmer, as they navigate shared sexual interests and personal growth. The book is lauded for its authentic portrayal of college athlete life and nuanced exploration of kink.
Christina: "She really does fantastic. ... I am a huge proponent for this whole series."
c. Spiral by Balcabra (28:10 - 29:25)
A fake dating sports romance between a hockey player and a ballerina, this book combines athletic passion with the grace of ballet, delivering a captivating and romantic narrative.
Anna: "A ballerina. How fun."
d. Out On a Limb by Hannah Bonham Young (29:31 - 32:19)
This deeply romantic narrative centers on Wynn and Beau, who navigate their unexpected life circumstances after a one-night stand leads to pregnancy. The book is praised for its realistic dialogue and heartfelt representation of disability and parenting.
Christina: "It's a beautiful story. The banter is actual God tier."
e. First Time Caller by BK Borison (32:49 - 35:58)
Inspired by classic rom-coms like Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally, this book follows Lucy and Aiden as they collaborate on a romance radio show, blending humor with heartfelt romance.
Anna: "It's such a fun play on this. ... It is so sweet."
f. Metal Slinger by Rachel Snyder (35:59 - 43:45)
The first book in the Fire and Metal series, this fantasy romance features Brynn, preparing for a rite of passage, and Acker, a dark-eyed enemy soldier. The book is celebrated for its unique world-building and engaging characters.
Christina: "The world building is so unique, but very simple."
6. TBR Lists (43:45 - 51:24)
The hosts share their personal "To Be Read" (TBR) lists, revealing their excitement for upcoming reads and special selections.
Christina’s TBR:
- Story of My Life by Lucy Score
- Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
- Save Your Breath by Candy Steiner
- Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
- Left of Forever by Tara DeWitt
- Swept Away by Beth O'Leary
Anna’s TBR:
- Wild Side by Elsie Silver
- Beautiful Exile by Katherine Coles
- The Divine Rivals and Ruthless Vowels Duology by Rebecca Ross
- Magnolia Parks by Jessa Hastings
- Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez (as a birthday present to Kim)
7. Listener Engagement and Giveaways (51:24 - 52:20)
Anna and Christina announce a recent giveaway on Patreon where the winner selected Slaying the Vampire Conqueror by Carissa Broadbent for the hosts to read, promising an exciting addition to their reading list.
Anna: "We're so excited about this. Katherine, thank you so much."
Conclusion
The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to join the Flights of Fantasy book club community on Instagram and TikTok. The hosts encourage ratings and reviews to help expand their audience, wrapping up with heartfelt reminders to keep dreaming and reading.
Christina: "If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform."
Anna: "Until next time, keep dreaming, keep reading, and remember, every good story deserves to take flight."
Notable Quotes:
- Christina (03:41): "I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you."
- Anna (12:16): "It might change per day, but today this is true."
- Christina (24:19): "It's kinky for me. I've never felt more vanilla in my life."
- Anna (37:00): "He's the sweetest, sexiest man."
- Christina (44:39): "She's a fantastic writer."
This episode of Flights of Fantasy offers a comprehensive and enthusiastic exploration of the hosts' current romance reads, blending personal insights with diverse book recommendations. Whether you're seeking sports romance, romantic suspense, or heartfelt narratives, Anna, Kim, and Christina provide ample suggestions to enrich your reading journey.