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In the latest episode of Romance on the Rocks, hosts Nicole and Meghan continue their journey through the world of romance novels with their signature mix of insightful analysis, humor, and unfiltered commentary. Meghan’s health and wellness challenge continues with her struggling to finish her daily gallon of water (so no cocktails for her still) while Nicole indulges in a vodka soda with berries — a drink inspired by her chosen novel.
The episode features two contemporary romance novels, both involving city women relocating to small towns.
Closer to You by Sheryl Lister
Meghan reviews “Closer to You” by Sheryl Lister, a 2019 publication that blends romance with murder mystery. This combination creates an engaging plot where the protagonist, Zara Chandler, inherits her grandfather’s bookstore and home in small-town Blackmont, California. The inheritance comes with stipulations. Zara must commit to living there and running the store for at least two years. The catch? Her grandfather was murdered and the killer remains at large.
The romantic interest emerges in Sheriff Kendall McKnight, who initially mistakes Zara for a burglar. Their relationship develops through verbal sparring and eventual mutual attraction, all while the mystery of her grandfather’s death intensifies. As the novel progresses, Zara faces multiple dangers while simultaneously navigating her growing feelings for the protective sheriff.
One of the most thought-provoking aspects of “Closer to You” was the dynamic between the independent-minded Zara and the protective sheriff. Meghan questions at what point a heroine’s determination to assert independence crosses into foolishness, especially when facing genuine danger. This common trope in romance novels — the strong woman defying the protective man even at risk to her safety — often makes protagonists seem more like “grown toddlers” than genuinely independent women.
Meghan appreciates “Closer to You” allows the relationship to develop realistically over months rather than days, showing the couple engaging in various activities together. However, she notes with amusement the excessive “moaning and groaning” throughout the book (not just during intimate moments but also when characters eat food like ice cream or pastrami sandwiches).
Say You Mean It by Megan Reinking
Nicole then discusses “Say You Mean It” by Megan Reinking, a 2024 novel set in a Minnesota resort. The protagonist, Blair Williams, is a personal injury lawyer who helps resort owner Graham Peterson with a lawsuit. Blair, who struggles with depression, finds herself drawn to Graham’s kindness and the peaceful resort setting.
What makes this novel distinctive is its realistic portrayal of depression and negative self-talk, though Nicole expresses concern about the characters’ futures. Graham’s business is failing yet he resists basic modernizations like a proper point-of-sale system. Meanwhile, Blair leaves her career without a financial plan and may face worsened depression during harsh Minnesota winters.
That’s a Wrap
The episode’s “Romantic Reminders” segment highlights thoughtful gestures from both books: planning surprises for your partner based on their preferences, making playful bets where both outcomes are enjoyable, and finding one good thing each day to focus on. That last Romantic Reminder can be especially valuable for those battling depression.
The hosts conclude by revealing their upcoming book swap, where they’ve each selected two books for the other — one thoughtfully chosen and one humorously inappropriate. This playful exchange promises to take them well outside their reading comfort zones in their next episode.
Have you read either of these contemporary romances? What did you think of them? Comment below! We’d love to hear from you. Interested in reading these novels yourself? You can purchase “Say You Mean It” from The Ripped Bodice here or Amazon here. And you can purchase “Closer to You” here. To learn more about author Sheryl Lister, click here. And to learn more about author Megan Reinking, click here. Want to listen to the podcast episode? We’re available on pretty much all your favorite podcast streaming services. Or you can visit our podcast player page here.
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