A Bookish Affair
By Shannon & Shannon
A Bookish AffairAug 29, 2023
Episode 47: Steamy Lit Con Recap, Part 1: Let's Be Awkward Together
Greetings, all you shy billionaires and hopeless-romantic producers! In this episode, we'll begin to recap our epic road trip to the first annual Steamy Lit romance conference. We'll discuss thrilling author interactions, the pros and cons of traveling with a Prius full of books, and the multi-state search for the perfect gluten-free burger!
For readalikes and book lists, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, if you know a non-terrible free transcription software or a great gluten-free burger joint in the Portland Metro area, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). We're also (sometimes) on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm (Shannon) and @shandybeereads (Shandy).
Our next book club meeting is Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing An Island Princess Starts A Scandal by Adriana Herrera, and we would love to have you join us! You don't need a library card -- or even to live in our time zone -- to join.
For a transcript of this episode, please email Shandy at sdickinson@lakeoswego.city.
Books and series mentioned in this episode:
All the Right Notes by Dominic Lim
The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun
D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding by Chencia C. Higgins
Role Playing by Cathy Yardley
Never Cross A Highlander by Lisa Rayne
Blind Date With A Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden
Ana Maria and the Fox by Liana de la Rosa
A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole
Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
Dewey Belong Together by Ann Whynot
Checking You Out by Ann Whynot
Green Valley Library series (multiple authors)
Decades series (multiple authors)
Love and Other Flight Delays by Denise Williams
Marriage Bargain With Her Brazilian Boss by Tara Pammi
West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras
The Karma Map by Nisha Sharma
The Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan
An Island Princess Starts A Scandal by Adriana Herrera
Episode 46: Celebrating Disability Pride Month in Romance and Beyond
Hello, all you toilet paper magnates and shipbuilding sweethearts! In our first episode in over a year, we share our favorite anti-ableist romances and authors in honor of Disability Pride Month. We'll discuss ABA beloveds Talia Hibbert, Chloe Liese, and Xan West, new favorites Evie Mitchell and A.J. Demas, and many more authors and books. It's a long one. You might need snacks.
Be sure to check the links below for book lists or to learn more about Disability Pride and combating ableism!
For more information about the club or podcast, or to join a virtual meeting, email sdickinson@lakeoswego.city or ssedell@lakeoswego.city. We'll be discussing Hunt the Stars by Jessie Mihalik via Zoom on Sunday, July 9 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'd love to have you join us!
For the first time ever, we've transcribed! If you'd like a transcript of Episode 46, send us an email.
Links:
Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (from the United Nations)
Observing Disability Pride Month This July (from Human Rights Watch)
What Is Disability Pride Month? (from Them)
Have You Seen the New Disability Pride Flag? (from RespectAbility)
Anti-Oppression Guides: Anti-Ableism (from Simmons University Library)
How To Be A Good Ally To Disabled People (from World Institute on Disability)
Alternatives to Ableist Language (from Mindr)
Fave Romances With Queer Disabled MCs (from Corey Alexander's blog, Corey's Book Corner)
Disability Rep in Romance (from Meet Cute Bookshop/bookshop.org)
5 Romance Books to Read for Disability Pride Month (from Culturess)
Archetype: Character With a Disability (from SBTB)
Highly Recommended Romance Novels With Disability Rep (from Romance Rehab)
6 Great Romance Books for Disability Pride Month (from Harlequin)
Disability Pride Megathread 2021 (from Reddit, r/romancelandia)
Disabled Characters (from Reddit, r/RomanceBooks)
Disabled Rep in FMC or MMC (from Reddit, r/RomanceBooks)
Let's Chat With Evie Mitchell (from In Love & Words)
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Future Is Disabled: Prophecies, Love Notes, and Mourning Songs by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha
Ravenswood series by Talia Hibbert
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Nine of Swords, Reversed by Xan West
Their Troublesome Crush by Xan West
Sword Dance trilogy by A.J. Demas
A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby by Vanessa Riley
A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall
The Madness of Lord Ian McKenzie by Jennifer Ashley
It Takes Two to Tumble by Cat Sebastian
The Lawrence Browne Affair by Cat Sebastian
Daniel Cabot Puts Down Roots by Cat Sebastian
Two Rogues Make A Right by Cat Sebastian
Always Only You by Chloe Liese
If Only You by Chloe Liese
Knot My Type by Evie Mitchell
Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade
Love Flushed by Evie Mitchell
The X-List by Evie Mitchell
Can’t Escape Love by Alyssa Cole
A Duke by Default by Alyssa Cole
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Beard in Mind by Penny Reid
The Love Con by Seressia Glass
Game On by Seressia Glass
Mickey Chambers Shakes It Up by Charish Reid
Episode 45: Looking Forward, Looking Back
Greetings, all you energetic harpies and lovelorn Cupids! In our longest episode yet (and that's really saying something, isn't it?), we'll take a look back at our favorite reads of 2021 and get excited for our most-anticipated books of 2022. We'll be taking a bit of a hiatus after this episode, but we'd still love to hear from you, or even see you at a book club meeting! We'll be discussing Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade on Sunday, February 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. Email us at sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy) or ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) for the Zoom link, or for more information. You can check out our 2022 book club lineup here.
Links:
Get your Big Harpy Energy shirt here.
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Companion by E.E. Ottoman
The Siren of Sussex by Mimi Matthews
The Way of the Househusband by Kousuke Oono
Redeemed by His New York Cinderella by Jadesola James
All the Feels by Olivia Dade
Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade
The Love Con by Seressia Glass
D’Vaughn and Kris Plan A Wedding by Chencia C. Higgins
Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron
Battle Royal by Lucy Parker
Love and Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
The Lights on Knockbridge Lane by Roan Parrish
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Heartbeat Braves by Pamela Sanderson
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
A Fatal Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum by Emma Southon
Bombshell by Sarah MacLean
Brazen and the Beast by Sarah MacLean
So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow
Ship Wrecked by Olivia Dade
A Thorn in the Saddle by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters
Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad
The Intimacy Experiment by Rosie Danan
Blackout by Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk, and Nicola Yoon
The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells
The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater
Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher
Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
Deep: Freediving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us About Ourselves by James Nestor
The Eye of Revelation by Peter Kelder
A Caribbean Heiress in Paris by Adriana Herrera
Compromised Into a Scandalous Marriage by Lydia San Andres
Heartbreaker by Sarah MacLean
The Royal Baby He Must Claim by Jadesola James
The Princess He Must Marry by Jadesola James
Don’t Fear the Reaper by Stephen Graham Jones
My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones
Never Cross a Highlander by Lisa Rayne
West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras
Something Fabulous by Alexis Hall
The Secret She Kept in Bollywood by Tara Pammi
Greywaren by Maggie Stiefvater
The Belle of Belgrave Square by Mimi Matthews
Love and Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
Black Love Matters by Jessica Pryde
Ramon and Julieta by Alana Quintana Albertson
The Wedding Crasher by Mia Sosa
The Romantic Agenda by Claire Kann
Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
A Lady for a Duke by Alexis Hall
You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi
For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes
Becoming the One: Heal Your Past, Transform Your Relationship Patterns, and Come Home to Yourself by Sheleana Aiyana
I Crumble For You by Clare D.
Episode 44: Faint Hearts Never Won Fair Ladies
Hello all you capable estate managers and independent heiresses! It's better late than never as we feature a heaping helping of holiday romance. We'll talk rom-coms, historical novellas, free online reads, and anthologies featuring Diwali, Hogmanay, Hanukkah, Nochebuena, and many more holidays throughout the year.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Confessions in B-Flat by Donna Hill, and we would love to have you join us!
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Christmas Chevalier by Meg Mardell
A Highland Hogmanay by Meg Mardell
A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli
Second Chance Under the Stars by Tara Pammi (Harlequin Online Reads story)
Redeemed by His New York Cinderella by Jadesola James
Discretion and Desire by Jadesola James (Harlequin Online Reads story)
Silent Nights by Penny Aimes (Harlequin Online Reads story)
For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes
The Deputy’s Chanukah Miracle by Shelly Bell (Harlequin Online Reads story)
Miracles and Menorahs by Stacey Agdern
Heartbeat Braves by Pamela Sanderson
Love All Year: A Holidays Anthology
Love and Latkes by Stacey Agdern
The Mistletoe Motive by Chloe Liese
Always Only You by Chloe Liese
Her Pretend Christmas Date by Jackie Lau
A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau
A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas by Jackie Lau
One Bed for Christmas by Jackie Lau
Wrapped Up In You by Talia Hibbert
Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert
Merry Inkmas by Talia Hibbert
A Holiday by Gaslight by Mimi Matthews
The Siren of Sussex by Mimi Matthews
Studmuffin Santa by Tawna Fenske
The Lights on Knockbridge Lane by Roan Parrish
The Geek Who Saved Christmas by Annabeth Albert
Mistletoe Christmas: An Anthology by Eloisa James, Christi Caldwell, Janna MacGregor, and Erica Ridley
Amor Actually by Adriana Herrera, Priscilla Oliveras, Alexis Daria, Mia Sosa, Zoey Castile, Sabrina Sol, and Diana Munoz Stewart
Duke, Actually by Jenny Holiday
A Princess for Christmas by Jenny Holiday
Love All Year 2021 by Soumi Roy, Kosoko Jackson, KD Casey, Jasmine Luck, Hudson Lin, October Rhea, and Elsie Marrone
Kwanzaa Angel by Shirley Hailstock
A Mistletoe Affair by Farrah Rochon
Episode 43: Indigenous Voices in Romance
Greetings, all you efficient community organizers and laid-back band managers! In this episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of Heartbeat Braves and share our recent and upcoming reads by Indigenous romance authors. This is the first episode we've ever recorded from the same room, and it was a blast -- we hope you enjoy it, too.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory, and we would love to have you join us!
Links:
8 Fantastic Romance Novels by Indigenous Authors (Book Riot)
Indigenous Romance Twitter Thread started by Beverly Jenkins!
Books mentioned in this episode:
Heartbeat Braves by Pamela Sanderson
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
Big Bad Wolf by Suleikha Snyder
Night Song by Beverly Jenkins
The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang
A Yellow Raft on Blue Water by Michael Dorris
The Grass Dancer by Susan Power
The Kate Shugak series by Dana Stabenow
The Sentence by Louise Erdrich
Lovesick Braves and Sweetheart Braves by Pamela Sanderson
Just Like This by Cole McCade
Taking on the Billionaire by Robin Covington
Seducing His Secret Wife by Robin Covington
Where the Snowy Owl Sleeps by Mimi Milan
Dueling the Desperado by Mimi Milan
Love Beyond Body, Space, and Time : an Indigenous LGBT sci-fi anthology, edited by Hope Nicholson, with stories by Cherie Dimaline, Richard Van Camp, Darcie Little Badger, Mari Kurisato, and more
Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger
Love After the End: An Anthology of Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Speculative Fiction edited by Joshua Whitehead, with stories by Mari Kurisato
Hearts Unbroken by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Jingle Dancer by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Sisters of the Neversea by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Fearless in Texas by Kari Lynn Dell
Thanks To You by Maggie Blackbird
Because of You by Maggie Blackbird
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
Deep: Freediving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us About Ourselves by James Nestor
The Murderbot Diaries (series) by Martha Wells
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Episode 42: Things They Don't Teach You In Library School
Greetings, all you growed-up little sisters and big brothers' bad boy BFFs! Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a plethora of books and authors. Plus, we'll talk 2022 book club possibilities, totally work-related web searches, and what on earth was going on with that Bake Off intro.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, November 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Heartbeat Braves by Pamela Sanderson, and we would love to have you join us!
Books discussed in this episode:
His Perfect Partner by Priscilla Oliveras
One Week to Claim It All by Adriana Herrera
Dreamers series by Adriana Herrera
Just for the Holidays... by Adriana Herrera
Las Leonas series by Adriana Herrera
The Wedding Crasher by Mia Sosa
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Acting on Impulse by Mia Sosa
Crashing Into Her by Mia Sosa
Delicious Temptation by Sabrina Sol
Delicious Complication by Sabrina Sol
A Lot Like Adios by Alexis Daria
Anchored Hearts by Priscilla Oliveras
You Had Me at Hola by Alexis Daria
The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon
West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras
A Delicious Dilemma by Sera Taino
The Uptown series by Ruby Lang
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
South Beach Love by Caridad Pineiro
Scandal in the VIP Suite by Nadine Gonzalez
What Happens In Miami… by Nadine Gonzalez
Stripped by Zoey Castile
Lush Money by Angelina M. Lopez
Hate Crush by Angelina M. Lopez
Serving Sin by Angelina M. Lopez
After Hours on Milagro Street by Angelina M. Lopez (release date: July 2022)
Once Upon a Scandal series by Liana de la Rosa
The Luna Sisters series by by Liana de la Rosa (forthcoming in 2023)
Elemental Mating by Milly Taiden
This Train is Being Held by Ismée Williams
With The Fire On High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Never Look Back by Lilliam Rivera
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Last Night At the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Big Bad Wolf by Suleikha Snyder
Episode 41: Don't Hide Your Pun Light Under A Bushel
Hello out there, all you captivating computer programmers and sexy secret agents! In this week's episode, we'll continue the lack of chill with our recap of the club's discussion of The Boyfriend Project...joined by none other than author Farrah Rochon! Plus, cabin chatter, smashing segues, and more shangents than you can shake a stick at.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, September 12 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender, and we would love to have you join us!
Books discussed in this episode:
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon
World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil
From the Corner of the Oval by Beck Dorey-Stein
While We Were Dating by Jasmine Guillory
Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory
The Professor Next Door by Jackie Lau
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
A Taste of Her Own Medicine by Tasha L. Harrison
The Bad In Each Other by Tasha L. Harrison
John Eyre by Mimi Matthews
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Dracula by Bram Stoker
The Siren of Sussex by Mimi Matthews
Bombshell by Sarah MacLean
Brazen and the Beast by Sarah MacLean
Battle Royal by Lucy Parker
Headliners by Lucy Parker
Episode 40: Zero Chill Shannons Unite
Hello out there, all you foxy firefighters and sassy social media influencers! In this episode, you'll experience our complete lack of chill as we talk to and about famous romance authors in our Island Affair book club recap. Plus, category romance, cyborgs in love, and shangents galore!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, September 12 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender, and we would love to have you join us!
Books discussed in this episode:
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
His Perfect Partner by Priscilla Oliveras
Anchored Hearts by Priscilla Oliveras
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Redeemed by His New York Cinderella by Jadesola James
The Sweetest Charade by Jadesola James
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters
Enough: Notes From A Woman Who Has Finally Found It by Shauna M. Ahern
Hola Papi! How To Come Out In a Walmart Parking Lot and Other Life Lessons by John Paul Brammer
Let’s Talk About Hard Things by Anna Sale
Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells (start with All Systems Red)
The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Authors mentioned in this episode:
Christina C. Jones
Rebel Carter
Pamela Sanderson
Courtney Milan
Tawna Fenske
Jack Harbon
Kennedy Ryan
Rebekah Weatherspoon
Jackie Lau
Piper Huguley
K.J. Charles
Olivia Dade
Vanessa Riley
Lucy Eden
Nicole Falls
Ruby Lang
Rose Lerner
Vanessa Riley
Tasha L. Harrison
Talia Hibbert
Episode 39: Can We Get a Book Club Fairy Godmother?
Hello, all you filmmaking foodies and high-powered attorneys! After an accidental summer break of several weeks, we're back to talk Juneteenth recipes, Meet Cute Club, the fantastical notion of a weekly book club, and whether purple, red, and green actually go together. We're so happy to be back with you!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, August 8 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Starstruck's Rose Matafeo Wants To Save the Rom-Com (Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair)
Roan Parrish Gets Real About Giving Her Queer Feminist Character a Happily Ever After
Writing About Slavery? Teaching About Slavery? This Might Help (P. Gabrielle Foreman, et al)
Books discussed in this episode
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Hearts On Hold by Charish Reid
All That She Carried by Tiya Miles
A Lowcountry Bride by Preslaysa Williams
Small Change by Roan Parrish
The Lights On Knockbridge Lane by Roan Parrish
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
The Murderbot Diaries (series) by Martha Wells
Strange Bedfellows: Adventures in the Science, History, and Surprising Secrets of STDs by Ina Park
Agrippina: The Most Extraordinary Woman of the Roman World by Emma Southon
A Fatal Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum by Emma Southon
Marriage, Sex, and Death: The Family and the Fall of the Roman West by Emma Southon
A Blues Singer to Redeem Him by Elle Jackson
Heart and Seoul by Jen Frederick
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
Episode 38: Listen To Their Voices
Greetings, all you long-lost princesses and inquisitive investigators! In this episode, we'll look back at a year spent listening to Black voices in romance and beyond. We'll rave about some of our favorite indie authors, highlight more LGBTQ+ stories, and recommend an awful lot of authors and books.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, June 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Deepening Our Connections: A 3-Part Series on African-American Literature
Cook the Books
Third Eye Books, Accessories, and Gifts
Books mentioned in this episode:
So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow
The Sum of Us by Heather McGhee
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon
Office Hours by Katrina Jackson
Along for the Ride by Mimi Grace
Make a Scene by Mimi Grace
The Write Escape by Charish Reid
(Trust) Falling for You by Charish Reid
Home to Milford College series by Piper Huguley
Love’s Sweet Melody by Kianna Alexander
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
Binding Shadows by Jasmine Silvera
Blind Date With a Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden
Truth or Dare by Danielle Allen
New Beginnings series by Nicole Falls
Be Mine and All Mine by Savannah J. Frierson
Rapper’s Delight by Kenya Goree Bell
Lotus Flower Bomb by Kenya Goree Bell
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Go Deep by Rilzy Adams
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Rilzy Adams
Liquor & Laundry by Tasha L. Harrison
Roll Bounce Love by Kay Shanee
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
Back in the Day by Katrina Jackson
The Tenant by Katrina Jackson
Pride and Passion by Rebel Carter
D’Vaughn and Kris Plan A Wedding by Chencia C. Higgins
Things Hoped For by Chencia C. Higgins
Desert Rose Hook-Ups series by Meka James
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
How To Find A Princess by Alyssa Cole
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Sweet Tea by Piper Huguley
A Treasure of Gold by Piper Huguley
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters
Confessions in B-Flat by Donna Hill
Pride and Passion by Carla Buchanan
Promise Me A Dream by Wayne Jordan
Let It Shine by Alyssa Cole
Haunted Serenade by Anna K. Taylor
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
Episode 37: A Veritable Rainbow of New Releases
Greetings and salutations, all you buttoned-up accountants and free-spirited artists! In this episode, we'll discuss some of our favorite and most-anticipated LGBTQ+ romances of 2021. Plus, we'll talk Jello sculptures, middle school speech tournament selections, and (finally!) our September book club pick.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, June 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Seven New Romance Novels To Read This Summer (Olivia Waite, New York Times)
Books discussed in this episode:
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters
One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Playing the Palace by Paul Rudnick
How To Find A Princess by Alyssa Cole
Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hall
The Companion by E.E. Ottoman
The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting by KJ Charles
Subtle Blood by KJ Charles
The Queer Principles of Kitt Webb by Cat Sebastian
The Hellion’s Waltz by Olivia Waite
A Little Light Mischief by Cat Sebastian
Her Lady’s Melody by Renee Dahlia
Her Lady’s Honor by Renee Dahlia
Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers
The Beautiful Things Shoppe by Philip William Stover
There Galapagos My Heart by Philip William Stover
The Hideaway Inn by Philip William Stover
The Hate Project by Kris Ripper
The Life Revamp by Kris Ripper
Book Boyfriend by Kris Ripper
Gays of Our Lives by Kris Ripper
Jeremiah by Jayce Ellis
Andre by Jayce Ellis
Learned Behaviors by Jayce Ellis
Learned Reactions by Jayce Ellis
If You Love Something by Jayce Ellis
Things Hoped For by Chencia C. Higgins
D’Vaughn and Kris Plan A Wedding by Chencia C. Higgins
Jay’s Gay Agenda by Jason June
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
When Tara Met Farah by Tara Pammi
Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard
It’s Been a Pleasure, Noni Blake by Claire Christian
Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade
All the Feels by Olivia Dade
Yes and I Love You by Roni Loren
Conviction by Denise Mina
Indigo by Beverly Jenkins
Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins
Mister Impossible by Maggie Stiefvater
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
Let's Talk About Love by Claire Kann
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Episode 36: A Book Club Is A Beautiful Thing
Greetings, all you lusty list-makers and dashing dukes! In this week's episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of The Duke Who Didn't and freedive into a plethora of recent reads.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, June 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon, and we would love to have you join us!
Books discussed in this episode:
The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan
Once Upon A Marquess by Courtney Milan
Talk Sweetly To Me by Courtney Milan
The Heiress Effect by Courtney Milan
The Pursuit Of… by Courtney Milan (from Hamilton’s Battalion)
After the Wedding by Courtney Milan
The Devil Comes Courting by Courtney Milan
The Year of the Crocodile by Courtney Milan
Only One Bed: A Romance Anthology
One Bed for Christmas by Jackie Lau
The Duchess War by Courtney Milan
Snapped by Alexa Martin
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
The Wave: In Pursuit of the Rogues, Freaks, and Giants of the Ocean by Susan Casey
Voices in the Ocean: A Journey Into the Wild and Haunting World of Dolphins by Susan Casey
Ninety Percent of Everything: Inside Shipping, the Invisible Industry That Puts Clothes on Your Back, Gas in Your Car, and Food on Your Plate by Rose George
How To Find a Princess by Alyssa Cole
Death at Sea World: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity by David Kirby
The Devil’s Teeth: A True Story of Obsession and Survival Among America’s Great White Sharks by Susan Casey
Deep: Freediving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us About Ourselves by James Nestor
Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach (pub date 9/14/2021)
Tempest by Beverly Jenkins
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins
It’s Been A Pleasure, Noni Blake by Claire Christian
Animal, Vegetable, Junk: A History of Food, from Sustainable to Suicidal by Mark Bittman
Sweet Tea by Piper Huguley (pub date 7//13/2021)
Episode 35: I Was Told There'd Be Kilts
Greetings, all you idealistic filmmakers and remote CEOs! In this episode, we've got angst: enemies-to-lovers, double grumps, super slow burns, and one very impatient (yet adorable) cat. Plus, a novella bonanza and a whole lot of Scot (but surprisingly few kilts).
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, June 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Books discussed in this episode
Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mysteries by Julia Spencer-Fleming
The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon
The Hideaway Inn by Philip William Stover
The Hate Project by Kris Ripper
The Love Study by Kris Ripper
Bittersweet by Christina C. Jones
I Think I Might Love You by Christina C. Jones
A Dash of Heat by Christina C. Jones
Band Sinister by KJ Charles
The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting by KJ Charles
When Tara Met Farah by Tara Pammi
Sweetest Regret by Meredith Duran
My Imaginary Ex by Mina V. Esguerra
Fairy Tale Fail by Mina V. Esguerra
No Strings Attached by Mina V. Esguerra
What Happens Under the Mistletoe by Sabrina Jeffries, Meredith Duran, Karen Hawkins, and Candace Camp
One Week To Claim It All by Adriana Herrera
Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins
Tempest by Beverly Jenkins
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Indigo by Beverly Jenkins
The Duke Who Didn't by Courtney Milan
You've Got Plaid by Eliza Knight
Hit Me With Your Best Scot by Suzanne Enoch
Sinful Scot by Julie Johnstone
Seductive Scot by Julie Johnstone
Scandalous Scot by Julie Johnstone
Sexy Scot by Cecelia Mecca
Between a Highlander and a Hard Place by Mary Wine
It’s Getting Scot in Here by Suzanne Enoch
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Episode 34: Dude, That Is ELEGANT!
Greetings and salutations, all you vivacious leading ladies and telenovela hunks! In this episode, we'll bring you a bit of lakeside birdsong, recap our book club discussion of You Had Me At Hola, and recommend some books that might bring a tear -- of one sort or another -- to your one good eye.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, May 9 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading The Duke Who Didn't by Courtney Milan, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
"Latinx" Is Growing In Popularity. I Made A Comic To Help You Understand Why by Terry Blas (Vox)
The Argument Against the Use of the Term "Latinx" by Gilbert Guerra and Gilbert Orbea (The Phoenix, Swarthmore College)
Inclusive Spanish: A Simple Guide To Using and Understanding Lenguaje Inclusivo (I Will Teach You A Language)
Books mentioned in this episode:
You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad
There I am by Ruthie Lindsay
This Close to Okay: A Novel by Leesa Cross-Smith
Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher
His Perfect Partner by Priscilla Oliveras
A Dash of Heat by Christina C. Jones
A Touch of Sugar by Christina C. Jones
It's the Chase For Me by Christina C. Jones
I Think I Might Love You by Christina C. Jones
Grow Something by Christina C. Jones
Bittersweet by Christina C. Jones
Plus One by Christina C. Jones
Sweethand by N.G. Peltier
The Companion by E.E. Ottoman
My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones
A Champion’s Heart by Piper Huguley
The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting by KJ Charles
She Whom I Love by Tess Bowery
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell
A Tip for the Hangman by Allison Epstein
(Trust) Falling for You by Charish Reid
The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan
Episode 33: If the Book Fits
Happy spring, all you big dreamers and Hollywood heartthrobs! This week, in our fourth recording of this possibly cursed episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of the Shannons' beloved If the Boot Fits. Plus, book hangovers, Shandy's dad reads romance, and some exciting news from the library! We know it's been almost a month -- thanks for sticking with us.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, April 11 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon (APANO)
LOPL Anti-Racism and DEI Resources
Books mentioned in this episode:
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Two Rogues Make a Right by Cat Sebastian
A Thorn in the Saddle by Rebekah Weatherspoon (release date 10/26/2021)
A Cowboy to Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Night Song by Beverly Jenkins
Weird But Normal: Essays by Mia Mercado
One Day We'll All Be Dead and None of This Will Matter by Scaachi Koul
The Viscount Made Me Do It by Diana Quincy
The Hellion's Waltz by Olivia Waite
The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite
The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
Love’s Sweet Melody by Kianna Alexander
Hamilton’s Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan and Alyssa Cole
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
Lively St. Lemeston series (start with Sweet Disorder) by Rose Lerner
All or Nothing by Rose Lerner
The Wife in the Attic by Rose Lerner
First Comes Like by Alisha Rai
Wrong To Need You by Alisha Rai
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
Hurts To Love You by Alisha Rai
You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria
Episode 32: Just Holding Down the Science of Attraction
Greetings, all you sassy schoolmarms and dashing cavalry officers! In this week's episode, we'll embark on our Beverly Jenkins reading challenge with Night Song, Vivid, Topaz, and more. Plus, pandemic facial hair (not ours), mustaches with character (also not ours), and, as always, a shangent or two.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, March 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon, and we would love to have you join us!
This week's links:
Should You Grow a Beard? Here's how women perceive bearded men by Molly Hanson (BigThink)
Uncommon Ground: Beverly Jenkins, diverse romance, and American history the way it really happened by Emily Jordan (Salon)
Books discussed in this episode:
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
Night Song by Beverly Jenkins
On the Banks of Plum Creek by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
Anne of Avonlea by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Vivid by Beverly Jenkins
Bring on the Blessings by Beverly Jenkins
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins
The Art of Love by Suzette D Harrison
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Love’s Sweet Melody by Kianna Alexander
Dead Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia
How To Find A Princess by Alyssa Cole
A Taste of Her Own Medicine by Tasha L. Harrison
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon (audiobook narrated by Elle Cleviden)
Episode 31: Once More We Play Our Dangerous Game
Greetings, all you feisty football fans and courageous quarterbacks! In this week's episode, we'll talk Snapped, snowpocalypses, submarines, and smokin' smooches.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, March 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Snapped by Alexa Martin
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas
Hearts on Hold by Charish Reid
A Holiday by Gaslight by Mimi Matthews
The Matrimonial Advertisement by Mimi Matthews
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo
The Write Escape by Charish Reid
Episode 30: A Lunar New Year Lovefest
Greetings, all you free-spirited artists and uptight pharmacists! In this week's episode, honoring the Lunar New Year, we'll talk books, authors, roasted chickens, pickled shallots, and rumors of snow. Happy Year of the Ox!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Snapped by Alexa Martin, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
11 Traditional Lunar New Year Foods To Eat in 2021
Maxine Hong Kingston's Genre-Defying Life and Work
Books mentioned in this episode:
A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year by Jackie Lau
New Year Boyfriend by Zoey Gong
The Year of the Crocodile by Courtney Milan
Trade Me by Courtney Milan
Hold Me by Courtney Milan
The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan
Her Pretend Christmas Date by Jackie Lau
Ringing in the Lunar New Year by Isla Chiu
Jeannie Lin: My Fair Concubine, Butterfly Swords; The Lotus Palace
Weina Dai Randel: The Moon in the Palace, Empress of Bright Moon
Janie Chang: The Library of Legends, Three Souls
Malinda Lo: Last Night at the Telegraph Club, Ash
Cindy Pon: Silver Phoenix
Zen Cho: Sorcerer to the Crown, Spirits Abroad, The Perilous Life of Jade Yeo
Neon Yang: Tensorate series
Nghi Vo: The Chosen and the Beautiful
Jayci Lee: Temporary Wife Temptation, Off Limits Attraction
Mary H.K. Choi: Emergency Contact
Alexander Chee: The Queen of the Night, How To Write An Autobiographical Novel
Helen Hoang: The Kiss Quotient, The Bride Test, The Heart Principle
Kevin Kwan: Crazy Rich Asians
Marjorie M. Liu: The Hunter Kiss series, The Dirk and Steele series, Monstress
Sherry Thomas: Lady Sherlock series, Heart of Blade duology, the Elemental trilogy, The Magnolia Sword
Amy Tan: The Joy Luck Club, The Kitchen God’s Wife, The Opposite of Fate
Yangsze Choo: The Night Tiger, The Ghost Bride
R.F. Kuang: The Poppy Wars, From a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes Back
Jean Kwok: Searching for Sylvie Lee, Girl in Translation
Min Jin Lee: Pachinko
Jenny Han: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Maurene Goo: Somewhere Only We Know
Maxine Hong Kingston: The Woman Warrior
Ocean Vuong: On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
Episode 29: Consent and Romance in Bridgerton and Beyond
Hello, all you lady swordfighters, scholarly lairds, and brawny yet insecure squires! In this week's episode, we'll talk about consent in Bridgerton and beyond. Please note that while the language used will be appropriate for an all-ages podcast, we will be describing and discussing situations that may be upsetting for some listeners. Please listen with caution. Later on in the episode, we'll talk about our latest and greatest reads and a few more ideas for busting those reading slumps.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 14. We'll be reading Snapped by Alexa Martin, and we would love to have you join us!
We have so many extra resources this week! Check next week's show notes for the books we mentioned in this episode.
Online Resources on Consent:
Birds & Bees & Kids
Talking To Kids About Rape and Sexual Assault
The Healthy Sex Talk: Teaching Kids Consent, Ages 1-21
Talk With Your Kids Timeline
Resources To Guide Discussions About Consent, Sexual Harassment and Misconduct
Breaking the Silence: How To Talk To Young Kids About Sexual Assault and Consent
Why Your Kids Need To Hear You Talk About Rape -- Now
Reading the Stanford Victim's Statement As A Mother of Boys
Yes & No: Consent in Sex Scenes (KJ Charles)
Consent in Netflix's Bridgerton
The Black Casting Choices in Bridgerton Were...A Choice (Jessica Pryde, Book Riot)
Bridgerton Has A Rape Scene, But It's Not Treated Like One (Aja Romano, Vox)
There Was A Rape Scene in Bridgerton and No One Seems To Have Realised (Izzy Schifano, The Tab)
Bridgerton's Controversial Sex Scene Needs A Trigger Warning (McKenzie Jean-Philippe, O: the Oprah Magazine)
Books on Consent:
Consent (For Kids!): Boundaries, Respect, and Being in Charge of You by Rachel Brian (middle grade nonfiction)
Real Talk about Sex & Consent by Cheryl M Bradshaw, MA (YA nonfiction)
A Quick and Easy Guide to Consent by Isabella Rotman (YA nonfiction)
Can I Give You A Squish? by Emily Neilson (picture book -- recommended by Clare)
Will Ladybug Hug? by Hilary Leung (board book -- recommended by Clare)
Episode 28: Their Convenient Podcast
Greetings, all you rebellious flappers and stoic shipping tycoons! In this episode, we'll talk about ways to emerge from the dreaded reading slump and list bonkers category romance titles until the cows come home. Plus, punny Christmas romance, Shandy defends her favorite number, and Shannon explains what exactly it means when Mercury is in retrograde!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Snapped by Alexa Martin, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Art of Love by Suzette D. Harrison
Night Song by Beverly Jenkins
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
Beard in Mind by Penny Reid
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
Night Shifts With the Miami Doc by Ann McIntosh
The Roman Lady’s Illicit Affair by Greta Gilbert
Forbidden to the Gladiator by Greta Gilbert
In Thrall to the Enemy Commander by Greta Gilbert
Seduced by Her Enemy Warrior by Greta Gilbert
The Flapper’s Fake Fiance by Lauri Robinson
The Flapper’s Baby Scandal by Lauri Robinson
Scandal at the Speakeasy by Lauri Robinson
Sheikh’s Baby of Revenge by Tara Pammi
Claiming His Bollywood Cinderella by Tara Pammi
The Surprise Bollywood Baby by Tara Pammi
After Hours Redemption by Kianna Alexander
Savannah’s Secrets by Reese Ryan
Temporary Wife Temptation by Jayci Lee
His Convenient Husband by Robin Covington
SOS: Convenient Husband Required by Liz Fielding
Convenient Marriage, Inconvenient Husband by Yvonne Lindsay
Ruthless Husband, Convenient Wife by Madeleine Ker
Unwrapping His Convenient Fiancee by Melanie Milburne
Butterfly Swords by Jeannie Lin
My Fair Concubine by Jeannie Lin
Snapped by Alexa Martin
The Witches Are Coming by Lindy West
East: 120 Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes from Bangalore to Beijing by Meera Sodha
While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
Quiet In Her Bones by Nalini Singh
An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler by Vanessa Riley
A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby by Vanessa Riley
Her Pretend Christmas Date by Jackie Lau
Joy to the Earl by Nicola Davidson
To Tame A Wicked Widow by Nicola Davidson
A Very Surrey SFS Christmas by Nicola Davidson
Episode 27: Our Legging Game Is Strong
Greetings, all you flighty astrologers and grouchy Supreme Court justices! In today's episode, we'll recap the festival of power coats that was the Biden/Harris inauguration, sing the praises of the power legging, and even talk a bit about books!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Snapped by Alexa Martin, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loren Long
Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson
Reverb by Anna Zabo
Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur
Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love, and the Hidden Order of Life by Lulu Miller
Snapped by Alexa Martin
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
Forbidden by Beverly Jenkins
Hamilton’s Battalion by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan, and Alyssa Cole
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
Ayesha At Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin
The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce
Episode 26: And People Say Romance Doesn't Make You Think
Greetings, all you soulful stargazers and artistic countesses! In this week's episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics. Plus, we'll talk bookstore anxiety dreams, disappearing astronomers, and some truly epic punny romance titles!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, February 14 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading Snapped by Alexa Martin, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Strange Love by Ann Aguirre
Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite
The Hellion’s Waltz by Olivia Waite
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
Small Change series (Farthing, Ha’Penny, Half a Crown) by Jo Walton
The Age of Wonder: How the Romantic Generation Discovered the Beauty and Terror of Science by Richard Holmes
Catalogue of Stars, Taken from Mr. Flamsteed's Observations Contained in the Second Volume of the Historia Coelestis, and Not Inserted in the British Catalogue by Caroline Herschel
The Surprise Bollywood Baby by Tara Pammi
Claiming His Bollywood Cinderella by Tara Pammi
Night Shifts with the Miami Doc by Ann McIntosh
Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron
Love All Year: A Holidays Anthology
An Unconditional Freedom by Alyssa Cole
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Reverb by Anna Zabo
The Stargazer’s Sister by Carrie Brown
Where There’s A Kilt, There’s A Way by Ella Stainton
Best Laid Plaids by Ella Stainton
Snapped by Alexa Martin
Episode 25: Same Nerds, Different Year
Happy 2021, all you beleaguered dukes and spirited mistresses! In this week's episode (which, as you may be able to guess, we recorded on Wednesday morning!), join the mayor and deputy mayor of Nerdville as we tell you way more than you ever wanted to know about our 2020 reading stats and 2021 reading resolutions. Plus, we'll talk Bridgerton, rereads, grownup onesies, and feminist chickens. You know, the usual.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, January 10 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
Scener
Mirisata Sri Lankan Cuisine
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
Real Life by Brandon Taylor
Night Song by Beverly Jenkins
Topaz by Beverly Jenkins
Rebel by Beverly Jenkins
Sexy/Dangerous by Beverly Jenkins
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Sh*t, Actually: The Definitive, 100% Objective Guide To Modern Cinema by Lindy West
Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman by Lindy West
The Witches Are Coming by Lindy West
Normal People by Sally Rooney
The Swan (Twelve Days of Christmas Mail-Order Brides) by Piper Huguley
Katherine by Anya Seton
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
How to Knit A Love Song by Rachael Herron
Knit One, Girl Two by Shira Glassman
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
Episode 24: Jonathan Franzen Wasn't Even Considered
Hello, all you brilliant neurosurgeons and lonely chefs! In our last (!) episode of 2020, we'll recap our latest book club discussion and offer up our top tens of the year. Plus, we'll talk body positivity, social justice, and Christmas dinner. We'll be back in January! Thank you, listeners, for making 2020 way more fun than it had any right to be.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, January 10 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be reading The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite, and we would love to have you join us!
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
A Bollywood Affair by Sonali Dev
The Bollywood Bride by Sonali Dev
Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal
Pride: A Pride and Prejudice Remix by Ibi Zoboi
Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
Ayesha At Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
Sh*t, Actually: The Definitive, 100% Objective Guide to Modern Cinema by Lindy West
Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman by Lindy West
From Scratch by Katrina Jackson
The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Any Old Diamonds by K.J. Charles
Gilded Cage by K.J. Charles
Sins of the Cities series by K.J. Charles
A Virtuous Ruby by Piper Huguley
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That A Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall
Always Only You by Chloe Liese
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Red At the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau
A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas by Jackie Lau
The Tourist Attraction by Sarah Morganthaler
The Christmas Chevalier by Meg Mardell
Their Troublesome Crush by Xan West
What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat by Aubrey Gordon
Episode 23: Llove, Llights, and Llamas
Hello, all you seductive Scrooges and studly Santas! In this episode, we'll talk pink trees, tinsel llamas, and all things holiday romance.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, December 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Last week's links, continued:
Collage
Starlight Knitting Society
Knotty Lamb
Betsy & Iya
Tasi
Crafty Wonderland
Music Millennium
The Meadow
Oodles 4 Kids
Kids At Heart
Finnegan's
Portland Indigenous Marketplace
My People's Market
Books mentioned in this episode:
Love All Year: A Holidays Anthology
All They Want For Christmas by Andie J. Christopher
A Princess for Christmas by Jenny Holiday
Merry Inkmas by Talia Hibbert
Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Her Christmas Cookie by Katrina Jackson
Every New Year by Katrina Jackson
Grand Theft N.Y.E. by Katrina Jackson
American Christmas by Adriana Herrera
Wrapped by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Miss Dominguez’ Christmas Kiss by Lydia San Andres
A Season for Wishes by Lydia San Andres
A Kiss for Midwinter by Courtney Milan
Tis the Season to Be Sinful by Adrienne Basso
The Christmas Chevalier by Meg Mardell
A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau
A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas by Jackie Lau
A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year by Jackie Lau
A Big Surprise for Valentine’s Day by Jackie Lau
One Bed for Christmas by Jackie Lau
Her Pretend Christmas Date by Jackie Lau
Holiday Home Run by Priscilla Oliveras
His Perfect Partner by Priscilla Oliveras
Sweet On You by Carla de Guzman
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
Dance All Night by Alexis Daria
Being Merry by Meka James
Twelve Dates of Christmas by Rilzy Adams
Love in the Time of Corona by Rilzy Adams
Eight Kinky Nights by Xan West
Their Troublesome Crush by Xan West
Miracles and Menorahs by Stacey Agdern
Lighting the Flames by Sarah Wendell
Guess Who’s Coming for Karamu by Cy Blanco
Kwanzaa Angel by Shirley Hailstock
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
And Then They Were Four by Elna Holst
Lucas by Elna Holst
Studmuffin Santa by Tawna Fenske
Secret Santa Baby by Robin Covington
His Convenient Husband by Robin Covington
The Hollow of Fear by Sherry Thomas
Dachshund Through the Snow by David Rosenfelt
Silent Bite by David Rosenfelt
Pride, Prejudice, & Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Episode 22: The Mushy One
Hello and happy holidays, all you devilish rakes and pastry-loving detectives! In this week's episode, we embrace the mush as we sing the praises of the people, books, shows, snacks, and music that are getting us through 2020. Plus, our glowing guide to Portland bookstores, restaurants, and other venues for shopping small and shopping local. We talk a little bit about books, too. And we'll be talking holiday romance in our next episode, so stay tuned!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, December 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links (Part 1)
Bookstores:
Backstory Books and Yarn
Green Bean Books
A Children's Place Bookstore
Wallace Books
Broadway Books
Annie Bloom's Books
Bookshop.org
The Booktique (run by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library!)
Food & Drink:
Maruti
Mirisata
Andina
Pix Patisserie
Lauretta Jean's
Petunia's Pies & Pastries
Gluten Free Gem
Wei Wei: A Taste of Taiwan
Laughing Planet
Snappy's
Thunderbird Bar
Oui Presse
New Cascadia Traditional
Blue Kangaroo Coffee Roasting
Lighthouse Roasters
Tao of Tea
Tea Chai Te
Mamancy Tea Co.
Books mentioned in this episode:
Amberlough by Lara Elena Donnelly
Love All Year: A Holidays Anthology
The Fires of Vesuvius: Pompeii Lost and Found by Mary Beard
24 Hours in Ancient Rome by Philip Matyszak
Wicked and the Wallflower by Sarah MacLean
Always Only You by Chloe Liese
The Preacher’s Promise by Piper Huguley
She Come By It Natural: Dolly Parton and the Women Who Lived Her Songs by Sarah Smarsh
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails With a Literary Twist by Tim Federle
Are You There, God? It's Me, Margarita: More Cocktails With a Literary Twist by Tim Federle
Gone With the Gin: Cocktails With a Hollywood Twist by Tim Federle
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Episode 21: The Secret Lives of Manatees
Greetings and salutations, all you revenge-seeking sauce manufacturers and undercover dukes! In this episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of Silver Silence and talk about a true American hero who also happens to be a romance writer. Plus, Shannon reveals a some fascinating manatee facts, Shandy reveals her current favorite YouTube distraction, and we both ponder what kind of changelings we'd be.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, December 13 at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
Stacey Abrams: Georgia's Political Heroine...and Romance Author (Alison Flood, The Guardian)
Stacey Abrams Talks the Shared Values of Her Political Campaign and Writing Romance (Maureen Lee Lenker, Entertainment Weekly)
Everyone Counts (Terra Dankowski, American Libraries)
How Stacey Abrams Turned Heartbreak Into a Career Plan...and Romance Novels (Nora Krug, The Washington Post)
Books mentioned in this episode:
American Sweethearts by Adriana Herrera
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent by Isabel Wilkerson
Never Tell by Selena Montgomery
Pet Sematary by Stephen King
When Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
Quiet In Her Bones by Nalini Singh
Minority Leader: How To Lead From the Outside and Make Real Change by Stacey Abrams
Rules of Engagement by Selena Montgomery
The Art of Desire by Selena Montgomery
Destination Wedding by Diksha Basu
The Tenant by Katrina Jackson
The Searcher by Tana French
The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan
The Lotus Palace by Jeannie Lin
Merry Inkmas by Talia Hibbert
Love All Year: A Holidays Anthology by Stacey Agdern, Hallie Alexander, Savannah J. Frierson, Felicia Grossman, Farah Heron, Celestine Martin, and Ekaterine Xia
Wrapped Up In You by Talia Hibbert
Bring On the Blessings by Beverly Jenkins
The Butch and the Beautiful by Kris Ripper
Episode 20: Let's Just Invent A New Month
Greetings, all you bear changelings and romantic A.I.s! For our twentieth (!) episode, we'll take you to the room where it happens as we hash out our 2021 book club picks.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Silver Silence by Nalini Singh, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria
Beach Read by Emily Henry
Wanted, A Gentleman by K.J. Charles
Heartbeat Braves by Pamela Sanderson
Her Land, Her Love by Evangeline Parsons Yazzie
The Lady’s Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
That Could Be Enough by Alyssa Cole
Snapped by Alexa Martin
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Connecticut Kings series by Christina C. Jones and Love Belvin
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
A Cowboy To Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
The Pursuit Of… by Courtney Milan
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Basketball Jones by E. Lynn Harris
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
The Love Study by Kris Ripper
Gays of Our Lives by Kris Ripper
Conventionally Yours by Annabeth Albert
Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins
Rebel by Beverly Jenkins
Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Big Bad Wolf by Suleikha Snyder
The Tenant by Katrina Jackson
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Lighting the Flame by Sarah Wendell
Every New Year by Katrina Jackson
Holiday Home Run by Priscilla Oliveras
American Christmas by Adriana Herrera
Off Limits Attraction by Jayci Lee
Secret Crush Seduction by Jayci Lee
Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade
Slow Burn by Olivia Dade
Savannah’s Secrets by Reese Ryan
The Billionaire’s Legacy by Reese Ryan
Happily Ever Afterlives by Olivia Waite
Black Witch Magic by Mila Nicks
A Sweet Mess by Jayci Lee
The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole
Along for the Ride by Mimi Grace
Make A Scene by Mimi Grace
Earl’s Well That Ends Well by Jane Ashford
Episode 19: Welcome to Crossover Country
Greetings, all you bourbon-making billionaires and smartypants spies! In this episode, we'll wave our arms around a lot, but you won't be able to see us, so we'll also talk about our favorite crossover books -- mystery, historical fiction, contemporary fiction, and YA that brings the true love, the drama, and maybe the warm fuzzies. Plus, Shannon reveals her Muppet heritage, Shandy reminisces about the best author hug ever, and we both grapple with a beloved yet problematic novel from our pasts.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Silver Silence by Nalini Singh, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
Green Darkness by Anya Seton
Katherine by Anya Seton
The Winthrop Woman by Anya Seton
Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs
The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
The Kitchen God's Wife by Amy Tan
The Accidental Tourist by Anne Tyler
Breathing Lessons by Anne Tyler
Saint Maybe by Anne Tyler
Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Less by Andrew Sean Greer
Going Dutch by James Gregor
The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce
One Day by David Nicholls
The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
More Than Words by Jill Santopolo
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes
Waiting to Exhale by Terry McMillan
How Stella Got Her Groove Back by Terry McMillan
Along the Infinite Sea by Beatriz Williams
Ahab’s Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund
Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye
The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey
The Hours by Michael Cunningham
Vanessa and Her Sister by Priya Parmar
Charlotte and Emily by Jude Morgan
Passion by Jude Morgan
Young Romantics: The Tangled Lives of English Poetry’s Greatest Generation by Daisy Hay
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
The Huntress by Kate Quinn
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Empress of Rome series by Kate Quinn
I, Claudius by Robert Graves
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
Regency Buck by Georgette Heyer
Her Royal Spyness series by Rhys Bowen
Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne Mysteries by Julia Spencer-Fleming
Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich
Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris
Marcus Didius Falco series by Lindsey Davis
Flavia Albia series by Lindsey Davis
Timothy Wilde series by Lyndsay Faye
The Paragon Hotel by Lyndsay Faye
Lady Sherlock series by Sherry Thomas
A Rising Man by Abir Mukherjee
The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey
Hollywood Homicide by Kellye Garrett
The Strivers’ Row Spy by Jason Overstreet
The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Where She Went by Gayle Forman
Just One Day by Gayle Forman
Just One Year by Gayle Forman
Ash by Malinda Lo
Huntress by Malinda Lo
Frankly in Love by David Yoon
With the Fire On High by Elizabeth Acevedo
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
Dumplin' by Julie Murphy
Halloween Boo by Sarah Spade
Auld Lang Mine by Sarah Spade
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
There isn't enough space in these show notes to list all of the other authors we mentioned, so we'll get that list out next week!
Episode 18: That Tricky Pseudonym Issue
Greetings, all you aspiring politicians and soulful piano players! In this episode, we'll talk political romance, holiday novellas, and voting. Plus, Shandy dreams of cable cars, Shannon dreams of Louboutin stilettos, and together we dream up the perfect Portland romance.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Silver Silence by Nalini Singh, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
13 Political Romances To Get You In the Mood for Election Season (Kamrun Nesa, BookBub)
Books mentioned in this episode:
A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
A Secret Desire by Kaia Danielle
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
The Art of Love by Suzette D. Harrison
Election Day by Keith Thomas Walker
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory
American Love Story by Adriana Herrera
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
Forbidden Promises by Synithia Williams
Scandalous Secrets by Synithia Williams
Campaign For Her Heart by Patricia Sargeant
Hints of Spice by Christina C. Jones
A Dash of Heat by Christina C. Jones
In Buffalo With You by Megan Fuentes
Booked For Christmas by Lily Menon
When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon
There’s Something About Sweetie by Sandhya Menon
American Christmas by Adriana Herrera
The Trouble with Hating You by Sajni Patel
Just a Heartbeat Away by Cara Bastone
A Sweet Mess by Jayci Lee
Destination Wedding by Diksha Basu
Hit Me With Your Best Scot by Suzanne Enoch
It’s Getting Scot In Here by Suzanne Enoch
Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid by Suzanne Enoch
Episode 17: We Accept You, Fangs and All
Greetings, all you haunted hotties and spectral suitors! In this episode, we'll discuss one of our favorite romances of the year and recap our many reading challenges of 2020. Plus, Shannon gets roped into one more challenge, Shandy makes a few bad puns, and we both wonder: how exactly does ghost romance work, anyway?
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a virtual book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy). Our next meeting is Sunday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m. PST. We'll be discussing Silver Silence by Nalini Singh, and we would love to have you join us.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
Unidentified Plane-Bae Woman's Statement Confirms the Worst (Taylor Lorenz in The Atlantic)
Indie Romance Books Are Big Business, But Why Aren't We Hearing About It? (Jacinta Howard on Shondaland)
The Troubling Gap Between Fat Representation and Fat Acceptance in Romance (Carole V. Bell on Book Riot)
Fave Fat Rep I Read in 2019 (Corey Alexander at Corey's Book Corner)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Surrender To You by Shawntelle Madison
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
First Comes Like by Alisha Rai
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Welcome To Sea Port series by Katrina Jackson
Be Mine by Savannah J. Frierson
All Mine by Savannah J. Frierson
Vampire Sorority Sisters series by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Four Letter Word by Ava Freeman
A Girl Like Me by J. Nichole
American Love Story by Adriana Herrera
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
High Rise series by Jayce Ellis
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
Blind Date With A Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden
Lioness in Blue by Shira Glassman
Knit One, Girl Two by Shira Glassman
Love In the Time of Corona by Rilzy Adams
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
The Art of Love by Suzette D. Harrison
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert
Halloween Boo by Sarah Spade
The Tenant by Katrina Jackson
Make A Scene by Mimi Grace
Their Troublesome Crush by Xan West
Eight Kinky Nights: An F/F Chanukah Romance by Xan West
Wrong To Need You by Alisha Rai
Grin and Beard It by Penny Reid
Beard In Mind by Penny Reid
One Good Earl Deserves a Lover by Sarah MacLean
A Rogue By Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean
No Good Duke Goes Unpunished by Sarah MacLean
Never Judge A Lady By Her Cover by Sarah MacLean
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
Episode 16: Here There Be Spoilers
Greetings, all you seductive bakers and hungry werewolves! In our spoileriest episode yet, we squeal over the return of Bake Off, ponder our favorite foodie romances, and revisit our tropes of doom. Secret babies, suddenly smokin' siblings, and sweet stories abound!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
Beard Science by Penny Reid
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Natalie Tam’s Book of Luck and Fortune by Roselle Lim
Vanessa Yu’s Magical Paris Tea Shop by Roselle Lim
As Good As the First Time by K.M. Jackson
The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy Reichert
Wrong To Need You by Alisha Rai
A Cowboy To Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
A Sweet Mess by Jayci Lee
Make A Scene by Mimi Grace
Delicious Temptation by Sabrina Sol
From Scratch by Katrina Jackson
Baked Fresh by Annabeth Albert
Recipe For Persuasion by Sonali Dev
All Stirred Up by Brianne Moore
A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
A Secret Desire by Kaia Danielle
Love’s Serenade by Sheryl Lister
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Secret Crush Seduction by Jayci Lee
Temporary Wife Temptation by Jayci Lee
Off Limits Attraction by Jayci Lee
Hurts To Love You by Alisha Rai
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves
The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
The Roommate by Rosie Danan
The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang
Barista and the Bear by Rebel Carter
Heart and Hand by Rebel Carter
Bear With Me by Lucy Eden
Blind Date With A Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden
An Angel for Daddy by Lucy Eden
Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert
The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan
Once Upon A Marquess by Courtney Milan
The Duchess War by Courtney Milan
A Treasure Of One’s Own by Lydia San Andres
Solutions and Other Problems by Allie Brosh
Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
Grin and Beard It by Penny Reid
Episode 15: Teeth Will Be Gnashed
Greetings, all you secret authoresses and jaded journalists! In this week's episode, we'll recap our book club discussion of The Worst Best Man; swoon over our favorite Latinx romance authors; and discuss our latest and greatest reads. Plus, Shannon's watching a non-CLOY K-drama that's heavy on the drama, Shandy compares books to cocktails, and we both manage to mispronounce the word "villain." Repeatedly.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
This week's links:
50 Must-Read Romance Novels by Latinx Authors (Silvana Reyes Lopez on Book Riot)
Afro-Latinx Authors in Romance: The Challenge of Needing To Be Seen Twice (Adriana Herrera in Remezcla)
Four Latina Authors Get Real About Their Place in the Romance Industry (Mia Sosa, Priscilla Oliveras, Sabrina Sol, and Alexis Daria)
Does Hispanic Heritage Month Need A Rebrand? (Isabelia Herrera in The New York Times)
This cover, am I right?
Books mentioned in this episode:
Visible Panther Line by Milly Taiden
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
American Love Story by Adriana Herrera
His Perfect Partner by Priscilla Oliveras
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
You Had Me At Hola by Alexis Daria
Delicious Temptation by Sabrina Sol
A Taste of Sage by Yaffa S. Santos
Like Water For Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
Aztec Gold by Caridad Pineiro
Miss Dominguez’ Christmas Kiss and Other Stories by Lydia San Andres
A Season for Wishes by Lydia San Andres
To Love a Scandalous Duke by Liana De la Rosa
To Resist a Scandalous Rogue by Liana De la Rosa
To Tame a Scandalous Lady by Liana De la Rosa
Pleasing Persephone by Mimi Milan
Elvira: A Day of the Dead Bride by Mimi Milan
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton
When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
The Last Train to Key West by Chanel Cleeton
A Summer for Scandal by Lydia San Andres
Make a Scene by Mimi Grace
Ace: What Asexuality Reveals About Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex by Angela Chen
The Rat-Catcher’s Daughter by K.J. Charles
Let’s Talk About Love by Claire Kann
How To Catch A Queen by Alyssa Cole
Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert
Beach Read by Emily Henry
The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary
Happy Trail by Daisy Prescott
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
A Secret Desire by Kaia Danielle
The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves
Two Rogues Make A Right by Cat Sebastian
Episode 14: Our Love Letter To Betas
Hello out there, all you sexy bodyguards and foxy firefighters! In today's episode, we'll try to provide some cheer in a world on fire. We'll (finally) talk about betas, the great unsung heroes of romance, and swoon over a few favorite dreamboats of film, television, and literature. Plus, Shandy can't get away from her least favorite trope, Shannon doubles down on romantic suspense, and an epically punny romance title inspires a new feature.
(Important correction: the author of said epically-punnily-titled romance is Milly Taiden, NOT Tilly Maiden. Shandy apologizes for the error!)
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Links:
Romance 101: Beta Heroes (Amanda Diehl on Book Riot)
Alyssa Cole On the Magic of Writing Romance (Shondaland interview by Kendra James)
My Favorite Romantic Hero: The Gamma Guy (Christina Bauer)
All the heart eyes for Isaac Jaffe.
Books mentioned in this episode:
Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins
A Hope Divided by Alyssa Cole
An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny by Rebekah Weatherspoon
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Wrong To Need You by Alisha Rai
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
Aubrey/Maturin series by Patrick O’Brian
Hurts To Love You by Alisha Rai
Forbidden Promises by Synithia Williams
Temporary Wife Temptation by Jayci Lee
Secret Crush Seduction by Jayci Lee
Anyone But the Earl by Irene Davis
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Can’t Escape Love by Alyssa Cole
Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory
Whiteout by Adriana Anders
Sexy/Dangerous by Beverly Jenkins
Pink Slip by Katrina Jackson
Visible Panther Line by Milly Taiden
Episode 13: Significantly Better People Than Lord Byron
Hello out there, all you crusading bluestockings and lovelorn bodyguards! In this episode, Shandy remembers a few more things she needs to say about The Ripped Bodice, and a Twitter controversy leads to many shangents as we muse on reviews, representation, and defeating coughshamers with lovingkindness. Plus, what will Shannon read now that she's finished "Crash Landing On You"...twice?
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Mad and Bad: Real Heroines of the Regency by Bea Koch
The Duke’s Princess Bride by Amalie Howard
40-Love by Olivia Dade
Desire and the Deep Blue Sea by Olivia Dade
The Seed of Compassion: Lessons from the Life and Teaching of His Holiness The Dalai Lama by The Dalai Lama, illustrated by Bao Luu
How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
Temporary Wife Temptation by Jayci Lee
Secret Crush Seduction by Jayci Lee
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Sexy/Dangerous by Beverly Jenkins
Bodyguard To The Billionaire by Nana Malone
Lies by Kylie Scott
Bring On The Blessings by Beverly Jenkins
The Sugared Game by K.J. Charles
The Surrey SFS series (My Lady's Lover; To Tame A Wicked Widow; My Lord, Lady, and Gentleman; At His Lady's Command; A Very Surrey SFS Christmas) by Nicola Davidson
Also mentioned in this episode:
Vicky Hoyle's review of The Duke's Princess Bride
Ari's review of The Duke's Princess Bride
Nikki DeMarco on Book Riot: 10 Books To Read After Finishing "Crash Landing On You"
Jack Kornfield: Meditation On Lovingkindness/Metta Prayer
Episode 12: Crash Landing On Alphas
Hello out there, all you stoic captains and feisty CEOs! In this episode, Shannon very patiently listens while Shandy gushes about her trip to The Ripped Bodice. We'll also discuss category romance, the Korean drama that's owning Shannon's life, and how the universe just doesn't want us to stop talking about alphas.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley
Green Darkness by Anya Seton
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
An Unconditional Freedom by Alyssa Cole
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
It Takes Two To Tumble by Cat Sebastian
A Gentleman Never Keeps Score by Cat Sebastian
Two Rogues Make A Right by Cat Sebastian
Any Old Diamonds by K.J. Charles
Think of England by K.J. Charles
Gilded Cage by K.J. Charles
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
Silver Silence by Nalini Singh
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev
Bitter Spirits by Jenn Bennett
Heroine Complex by Sarah Kuhn
Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill
Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon
The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel
The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel
Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Las Leonas series by Adriana Herrera
Claiming His Bollywood Cinderella by Tara Pammi
If the Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Marriage by Arrangement by Sophia Singh Sasson
After Hours Redemption by Kianna Alexander
The Vicar and the Rake by Annabelle Greene
The Duke’s Princess Bride by Amalie Howard
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
Episode 11: In Which We Sort Of Apologize To Alphas
Hello out there, all you chivalrous tennis instructors and poisonous superheroines! In this week's episode, we'll re-recap our book club discussion of Bringing Down the Duke, admit we may have been too hard on alphas in the past, and trust our favorite authors to take us into uncharted territory.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city (Shannon) or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city (Shandy).
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
We consulted some excellent and delightful sources to further our understanding of alphas, especially:
Fated Mates, S02.2: The Alpha in Romance Novels Interstitial (podcast hosted by Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop)
The Romance MFA, especially this post about alphas! (website by Bonnie Loshbaugh, who writes as Irene Davis)
Books mentioned in this episode:
Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
The Rakess by Scarlett Peckham
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Gilded Cage by KJ Charles
Any Old Diamonds by KJ Charles
Prem Numbers by Suleikha Snyder
Ishq Factors by Suleikha Snyder
Dil Or No Dil by Suleikha Snyder
Tikka Chance On Me by Suleikha Snyder
Things Hoped For by Chencia C. Higgins
Blind Date With A Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden
An Angel For Daddy by Lucy Eden
Bear With Me by Lucy Eden
Caste: The Origins Of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
Hood Feminism: Notes From the Women That A Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall
Grumpy Jake by Melissa Blue
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
Episode 10: Dispatches from the Hammock
Greetings and salutations, romantics! In this week's episode, we'll consider our favorite royalty romance tropes and sing the praises of the modern princess. Plus, more about Black-owned bookstores, current reads, and Shandy's lakeside cabin HEA. Sadly, we lost the audio on our recap of the book club discussion of Bringing Down the Duke -- but never fear, we'll regroup and recap next time!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here: https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair or email us directly at ssedell@lakeoswego.city or sdickinson@lakeoswego.city.
You can also find us on Instagram at @theknitterlybookworm and @shandybeereads! (Disclaimer: these are our personal bookstagram accounts and the opinions espoused on those accounts do not necessarily reflect the views of LOPL.)
Books mentioned in this episode:
A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole
A Duke by Default by Alyssa Cole
His Defiant Princess by Nana Prah
The Princess Trap by Talia Hibbert
How To Catch A Queen by Alyssa Cole
The Princess and the Rogue by Kate Bateman
His Inherited Princess by Empi Baryeh
His Captive Princess by Kiru Taye
A Cowboy To Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
If The Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole
40-Love by Olivia Dade
Desire and the Deep Blue Sea by Olivia Dade
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
A House Is A Body by Shruti Swamy
Rebel by Beverly Jenkins
Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
Bookstores mentioned in this episode:
Reparations Club: https://rep.club/
Eso Won Books: https://www.esowonbookstore.com/
The Ripped Bodice: https://www.therippedbodicela.com/
Episode 9: Well Done, Sister Suffragette
Greetings and salutations, romantics! In this week's episode, we'll take a ramble through suffrage in romance, rave about our favorite bookstores, and extol the virtues of lakeside hammock reading and properly masked and distanced bookstore browsing. Where do you buy your romance?
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here: https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair
Books mentioned in this episode:
Hamilton's Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan, & Alyssa Cole
How To Catch A Queen by Alyssa Cole
A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
Take A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
Daughters of a Nation: A Black Suffragette Historical Romance Anthology by Lena Hart, Piper Huguley, Kianna Alexander, & Alyssa Cole
A Virtuous Ruby by Piper Huguley
The Suffragette Scandal by Courtney Milan
A Most Peculiar Circumstance by Jen Turano
Wanted: One Scoundrel by Jenny Schwartz
Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
A Rogue of One's Own by Evie Dunmore
The Searcher by Tana French
Moonflower Murders by Anthony Horowitz
Conjure Women by Afia Atakora
Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon
Minor Feelings by Cathy Park Hong
Tikka Chance On Me by Suleikha Snyder
Episode 8: Only Shangentially Related
Howdy, romance fans! In this week's episode, we begin to explore our favorite and least favorite romance tropes. Join us as we cringe at secret babies, roll our eyes at secret billionaires, and muse on the merits of the protective older sibling in romance. What are your favorite tropes?
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, to learn more about attending a book club meeting, or just to chat with us about romance, find us here:
https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair
Books mentioned in this episode:
Sanctuary by Rebekah Weatherspoon
A Cowboy to Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas by Jackie Lau
A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year by Jackie Lau
All or Nothing by Rose Lerner
Grumpy Fake Boyfriend by Jackie Lau
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Temporary Wife Temptation by Jayci Lee
Island Affair by Priscilla Oliveras
A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole
If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane
Take A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
Spice and Smoke by Suleikha Snyder
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson
Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby
The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom
After the People Lights Have Gone Off by Stephen Graham Jones
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
Night Shift by Stephen King
Skeleton Crew by Stephen King
Harbor by Rebekah Weatherspoon
If The Boot Fits by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Episode 7: You Had Us At Bookmobile
Ahoy, romantics! In this episode, we'll discuss our favorite and least favorite traits in a romance hero. Vicars and nannies and step-princes, oh my! Plus, we'll enthuse about our recent and upcoming reads and offer our plea to the universe for some slightly less muscular heroes.
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, or to learn more about attending a book club meeting, find us here: https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair
Books mentioned in this episode:
Forbidden to the Gladiator by Greta Gilbert
Sweet Disorder by Rose Lerner
40-Love by Olivia Dade
Haven by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Sanctuary by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Brazen and the Beast by Sarah MacLean
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
From Scratch by Katrina Jackson
A Duke, the Lady, and a Baby by Vanessa Riley
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny by Rebekah Weatherspoon
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
A Duke by Default by Alyssa Cole
Hate Crush by Angelina M. Lopez
If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane
Take A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
American Love Story by Adriana Herrera
Finding Joy by Adriana Herrera
Unfit To Print by KJ Charles
It Takes Two To Tumble by Cat Sebastian
The Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mysteries by Julia Spencer-Fleming
Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brian
Slippery Creatures by KJ Charles
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
I, Claudius by Robert Graves
A Gentleman Never Keeps Score by Cat Sebastian
A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole
A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole
American Fairytale by Adriana Herrera
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
The Marriage Game by Sara Desai
Conventionally Yours by Annabeth Albert
Not the Girl You Marry by Andie J. Christopher
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
With the Fire On High by Elizabeth Acevedo
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
The verse novels of Jason Reynolds
Snapped by Alexa Martin
Spice and Secrets by Suleikha Snyder
Episode 6: Those Beautiful Sunburned Ankles
Shannon is finally back from her vacation (aka the longest week of the pandemic, according to Shandy). In this episode, we'll discuss vacation reading, Hamilton's Battalion, and our latest and greatest reads, romance and otherwise. Buckle up, it's a long one...but can you blame us? We had two weeks' worth of romance to fit into one episode!
For readalikes, book lists, and antiracism resources, or to learn more about attending a book club meeting, find us here: https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair
Books mentioned in this episode:
A Prince On Paper by Alyssa Cole
Take A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
A Taste of Sage by Yaffa S. Santos
The Witch Elm and The Searcher by Tana French
The Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mysteries by Julia Spencer-Fleming
Hamilton's Battalion: A Trio of Romances (Promised Land by Rose Lerner, The Pursuit Of... by Courtney Milan, and That Could Be Enough by Alyssa Cole)
Be Not Afraid by Alyssa Cole
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent and The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
A Secret Desire by Kaia Danielle
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Red At The Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell by W. Kamau Bell
American Dreamer by Adriana Herrera
Conventionally Yours by Annabeth Albert
Wow, No Thank You by Samantha Irby
Finding Joy by Adriana Herrera
A Virtuous Ruby by Piper Huguley
Real Life by Brandon Taylor
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
The Yellow House by Sarah Broom
My Fair Concubine by Jeannie Lin
Episode 5: We Love Romance. Period.
Happy July, friends! In our fifth episode, we'll give our best "gateway romance" suggestions for interested readers just starting out in the genre. Also, we'll check in on our June challenge to read an intersectional rainbow, rhapsodize about talking to authors on social media (they're real people! and they're so nice!), and issue a plea to authors of romance: more periods, please!
Books and authors mentioned in this episode:
A Virtuous Ruby by Piper Huguley
Home to Milford College series by Piper Huguley
The Rat-Catcher's Daughter by KJ Charles
Brothers Sinister series by Courtney Milan
Loyal League series by Alyssa Cole
Hamilton's Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan, and Alyssa Cole
The Duke I Tempted by Scarlett Peckham
Untamed by Anna Cowan
All or Nothing by Rose Lerner
Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal
A Cowboy to Remember by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Take the Lead by Alexis Daria
Uptown Trilogy by Ruby Lang
A Bollywood Affair by Sonali Dev
Reluctant Royals, Runaway Royals, and Off the Grid series by Alyssa Cole
Cyclone series by Courtney Milan
Forbidden Hearts series by Alisha Rai (Hate To Want You, Wrong To Need You, Hurts to Love You)
Glutton for Pleasure by Alisha Rai
Bollywood Confidential series by Suleikha Snyder
Welcome to Sea Port and The Spies Who Loved Her series by Katrina Jackson
Fit trilogy and Beards and Bondage series by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Her Royal Spyness series by Rhys Bowen
An Inconvenient Duke by Anna Harrington
Rebel (and anything else!) by Beverly Jenkins
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes
Anything by Jojo Moyes
Anything by Jasmine Guillory
Ayesha At Last by Uzma Jalaluddin
If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Girl Gone Viral by Alisha Rai
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny by Rebekah Weatherspoon
A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
Take A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Something True by Karelia Stetz-Waters
Portland Heat series by Annabeth Albert
Vampire Sorority Sisters series by Rebekah Weatherspoon (Better Off Red, Blacker Than Blue, Soul To Keep
Be Mine by Savannah J. Frierson
All Mine by Savannah J. Frierson
The Virgin and the Rogue by Sophie Jordan
Finding Joy by Adriana Herrera
Jeremiah by Jayce Ellis
Andre by Jayce Ellis
The Rakess by Scarlett Peckham
A Duke, The Lady, and A Baby by Vanessa Riley
Episode 4: Come Swoon With Us
Ahoy, romance fans! In this episode, we'll recap our delightful book club discussion of the oh-so-charming Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, check in on our rainbowy reading challenge, and continue musing about everything from cinnamon rolls (both human and pastry) to racial justice in romance. Come swoon with us!
Books mentioned in this episode:
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Welcome to Sea Port series by Katrina Jackson (From Scratch, Inheritance, Small Town Secrets, Her Christmas Cookie)
Heart and Hand by Rebel Carter
Vampire Sorority Sisters series by Rebekah Weatherspoon (Better Off Red, Blacker Than Blue, Soul To Keep)
High Rise series by Jayce Ellis (Jeremiah, Andre)
Meet Cute Club by Jack Harbon
Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
A Duke by Default by Alyssa Cole
Real Life by Brandon Taylor
Dreamers series by Adriana Herrera (American Dreamer, American Fairytale, American Love Story, American Sweethearts)
Decades: A Journey of African American Romance
- A Delicate Affair by Lindsay Evans
- A Secret Desire by Kaia Danielle
- Love's Serenade by Sheryl Lister
- The Art of Love by Suzette Harrison
- Love's Sweet Melody by Kianna Alexander
- Pride and Passion by Carla Buchanan
- Promise Me A Dream by Wayne Adrian Jordan
- Election Day by Keith Thomas Walker
- Made To Hold You by Elle Wright
- Thug Love by Zuri Day
- Inconsequential Consequences by Denise Jeffries
- Campaign For Her Heart by Patricia Sargeant
Uptown series by Ruby Lang (Playing House, Open House, House Rules)
Hamilton's Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan, and Alyssa Cole
Episode 3: Black Voices and Racial Justice in Romance and Beyond
In this episode, we'll recommend some of our favorite Black romance authors and discuss other ways to support racial justice at home and across the nation. Look for our antiracist resource list and Black romance reading list at https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/library/online-bookish-affair.
Books mentioned in this episode:
So You Want To Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
Beverly Jenkins:
Rebel
Through the Storm
Indigo
Topaz
Alyssa Cole:
Reluctant Royals: A Princess in Theory, A Duke by Default, A Prince on Paper, Can't Escape Love, Once Ghosted, Twice Shy
The Loyal League: An Extraordinary Union, A Hope Divided, An Unconditional Freedom
Historical novellas: That Could Be Enough, Be Not Afraid, Let Us Dream, Let It Shine
Piper Huguley:
Migrations of the Heart: A Virtuous Ruby, A Most Precious Pearl, A Treasure of Gold, A Champion's Heart
Home to Milford College: The Lawyer's Luck, The Preacher's Promise, The Mayor's Mission, The Representative's Revolt
Adriana Herrera:
Dreamers: American Dreamer, American Love Story, American Fairytale, American Sweethearts
Rebel Carter:
Gold Sky: Heart and Hand, Hearth and Home, Honor and Desire, Three To Love, Leather and Lace
Rebekah Weatherspoon:
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny
Jasmine Guillory:
The Wedding Date, The Proposal, The Wedding Party
Royal Holiday
Party of Two
Lindsay Evans:
A Delicate Affair
Decades: A Journey of African American Romance (series)
Kwana Jackson:
Real Men Knit
The Brightest Day: A Juneteenth Historical Romance Anthology by Lena Hart, Kianna Alexander, Piper Huguley, and Alyssa Cole
Daughters of a Nation: A Black Suffragette Historical Romance Anthology by Lena Hart, Kianna Alexander, Piper Huguley, and Alyssa Cole
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You: A Remix by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynold
Stamped From the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racism in America by Ibram X. Kendi
Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson
The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander
Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
The Broken Earth trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
Episode 2: Comfort Reads and Cinnamon Rolls
Hello again, romance fans! We're Shannon and Shannon, librarians and co-founders of the Lake Oswego Public Library's romance book club, A Bookish Affair. In this episode, we'll proclaim our love for our May 2020 book club pick (Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert), talk about our favorite comfort reads for strange and difficult times, and issue ourselves a rainbowy reading challenge.
Books mentioned in this episode:
Get A Life, Chloe Brown, Talia Hibbert
Rafe: A Buff Male Nanny, Rebekah Weatherspoon
Think of England, KJ Charles
It Takes Two To Tumble, Cat Sebastian
Skeleton Crew, Stephen King
Night Shift, Stephen King
Pet Sematary, Stephen King
If I Stay, Gayle Forman
Where She Went, Gayle Forman
Just One Day, Gayle Forman
Just One Year, Gayle Forman
Eleanor and Park, Rainbow Rowell
Eligible, Curtis Sittenfeld
Darcy’s Passions, Regina Jeffers
Ayesha At Last, Uzma Jalaluddin
Among the Janeites, Deborah Yaffe
Red, White & Royal Blue, Casey McQuiston
Lucas, Elna Holst
The Only Good Indians, Stephen Graham Jones
Haven, Rebekah Weatherspoon
Gold Sky (Heart and Hand, Hearth and Home, Honor and Desire, Three To Love, and Leather and Lace), Rebel Carter
After the Blast: The Ecological Recovery of Mt. St. Helens, Eric Wagner
Real Men Knit, Kwana Jackson
Pride, Ibi Zoboi
Uptown Trilogy (Playing House, Open House, and House Rules), Ruby Lang
When No One Is Watching, Alyssa Cole
Episode 1: An Energetic Wave of Love
Hi there, romance fans! We're Shannon and Shannon, librarians and co-founders of the Lake Oswego Public Library's romance book club, A Bookish Affair. In this inaugural episode, we'll advocate for reading romance in trying times, muse over the books that brought us to the genre (here's looking at you, knitting romance and Anya Seton), and talk about what we're reading next.
Books mentioned in this episode:
How To Knit A Love Song by Rachael Herron
Katherine by Anya Seton
Green Darkness by Anya Seton
The Winthrop Woman by Anya Seton
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
A Rogue By Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean
If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane
Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
White Whiskey Bargain by Jodie Slaughter
The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite
Two Rogues Make a Right by Cat Sebastian