In this episode of the Indie Book Club, we dive into the most beloved — and most polarizing — genre of all: romance.

From adolescent obsessions with Byronic heroes to the slow realization that kindness might just be the ultimate aphrodisiac, our host takes listeners on a sharp, witty, and deeply personal journey through love, literature, and disillusionment.

Through the lens of iconic stories like Wuthering Heights, we explore the damage done by impossible ideals and the complicated biology that tricks us into thinking bad boys are a good idea.

We also get into the gloriously absurd world of Mills & Boon and Barbara Cartland, with their outdated tropes, formulaic plots, and heroine-villain dynamics dressed up as love.

But beyond the sarcasm and satire, this episode also makes space for the comfort and escapism that romance provides—especially in lonely or stressful times.

Whether you're a long-time lover of love stories or a jaded realist with a cup of tea, there’s something here to make you laugh, cringe, and maybe rethink your teenage crush on Heathcliff.

Books mentioned in this episode:https://amzn.to/4lmeCHZ

Inkspot Publishing receives a commission for any Amazon sales made through the above affiliate links.

The Indie Books Club is a podcast dedicated to discussing books of all kinds, usually from Indie presses. We'll talk about books that make us think, chat with guests from the publishing world, and more. Hosted by Cathy Evans and brought to you by Inkspot Publishing, we aim to enrich your day with interesting arguments, unfiltered thoughts, and a few jokes!

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Produced and edited by Taryn de Meillon

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