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Episode Description
Christmas in July heats up as the Romance on the Rocks podcast tackles two holiday-themed romances that push boundaries in very different ways. Hosts Meghan and Nicole deliver equal parts humor and literary criticism while enjoying seasonal beverages — a festive “Snowball Old Fashioned” for Nicole and iced coffee for Meghan (who’s admirably sticking to her health challenge despite the temptation of a cold beer).
Meghan dives into “Merry Cris Moose” by Delta James, a 2024 release that combines Christmas magic with shifter romance in Alaska. While praising the author’s creative world-building and imaginative premise about saving Christmas through toy-making, she can’t overlook the jarring tonal shifts between holiday wholesomeness and explicit encounters. Most frustrating is the extreme repetition in the author’s writing style. Meghan actually created a chart documenting phrases repeated up to 34 times in just 132 pages!
Nicole bravely tackles “Snowed In with the Cowboy” by Maisey Yates, a novella featuring the taboo romance between step-siblings Chloe and Tanner. Despite her discomfort with the premise, Nicole appreciates the author’s strong dialogue writing and the characters’ healthy communication skills. She also highlights a standout quote about love being active, not passive, reminding us relationships require continuous investment.
The episode features all the podcast’s beloved traditions — tracking when “boobies” first appear (who will win this episode?!), sharing romantic reminders, and previewing exciting upcoming reads. The hosts also share their plans to host a Bookish Biddie Brunch event in Milwaukee this September, inviting listeners to join them for the exclusive event — details to come!
Whether you’re a romance enthusiast or simply enjoy listening to thoughtful, funny discussions about books, this episode delivers both entertainment and surprising insights. Subscribe now and join our community of bookish biddies who appreciate a good story and an honest review!
Nicole’s Cocktail & Book for this Episode: Snowed in with the Cowboy and a Snowball Old Fashioned
Meghan’s Beverage & Book for this Episode: Merry Cris Moose and an Iced Coffee
Our The Ripped Bodice Affiliate Link: https://www.therippedbodice.com/aff/romanceontherockspodcast_26867
(the best way to get your smut while supporting a fabulous women-owned business and our podcast!)
Trigger Warnings for the Episode:
Cursing, Sibling Incest (Non-Biological)
Cocktails for this Episode:
Nicole — Snowball Old Fashioned and a Shiner Bock Beer
Meghan — Iced Coffee
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Credits:
Theme Music Created by Adam Wroblewski
Main Art by PersonalisePortrait
Want to drink along with us? We’ve got a fabulous Romance on the Rocks Podcast Drinking Game. It’s yours free when you subscribe to our email list! Just fill out this form and will email you the PDF!
