This post may contain affiliate links — meaning we get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. We carefully curate our affiliate partnerships and only work with companies we like and believe in. Earning commissions like this helps us sustain our blog but the opinions we share are always our own.
Listen to the Episode
Episode Description
Fall in love with small-town romance as Nicole and Meghan exchange books perfectly tailored to each other’s interests in this delightful end-of-summer reading episode. Their thoughtful book exchange showcases the power of friendship through literature, with Nicole receiving a hairstylist-centered romance and Meghan diving into a story featuring baseball and thrifting.
Nicole explores “Dark Roots and Cowboy Boots” by LuAnn McLane, set in the funnily-named Hootertown, Kentucky, where hairstylist Jamie Lee finds herself caught between Hollywood producer Parker and her longtime crush, Griff. The novel resonates particularly well with Nicole’s professional background, featuring authentic salon details from perms to salon laundry. She praises the realistic portrayal of cosmetology work while assigning it a “poblano bordering on jalapeño” spice rating.
Meanwhile, Meghan takes readers through “Kissing Bandit” by Margaret Rose. The story features protagonist Francesca Bloomfield embarks on a summer of self-discovery after heartbreak. With a strict “no dating, only fun kisses” rule, Francesca’s carefully constructed plans unravel when she meets former baseball player John Boggs during her first estate sale job. The slow-burn romance challenges her commitment to remaining emotionally detached, creating a compelling journey of healing and connection.
Both hosts extract meaningful “romantic reminders” from their reading experiences. Nicole encourages embracing small-town date opportunities like country line dancing and local celebrations, while Meghan highlights the importance of maintaining playfulness and silliness in relationships. Their genuine enthusiasm for these stories reflects why romance novels continue to capture readers’ hearts. This genre of books offer both escape and relatable emotional truths.
As they approach their one-year podcast anniversary, Nicole and Meghan tease expanded content for their upcoming “Creature Feature October.” They promise paranormal romance reviews that will delight listeners seeking supernatural tales. Join these bookish biddies as they continue their journey through the diverse and heartwarming world of romance fiction.
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
Swearing/Cursing
Our Cocktails & Books for this Episode
Meghan’s Cocktail & Book: Liquid Death Dr. Death and “The Kissing Bandit” (get it from Amazon or The Ripped Bodice with our affiliate links and support the podcast)
Nicole’s Cocktail & Book: Aperol Spritz and “Dark Roots and Cowboy Boots”
Cocktail + Book + Episode Pairings
If you’re looking for the perfect way to bring a little extra fun to your reading time, these book-inspired cocktails are just the thing. Dark Roots & Cowboy Boots by LuAnn McLane pairs beautifully with Southern-flavored sips like the Sweet Tea Smash, Bourbon & Boots, and the Strawberry Sunset Fizz. Kissing Bandit by Margaret Rose shines alongside flirty, sporty drinks like the Grand Slam Spritz, Second-Chance Sangria, and The Kiss Catcher. Whether you’re listening to the podcast episodes or reading these books for yourself, hosting a book club, or just love a good themed drink (like Nicole); these recipes are easy, delicious and the perfect complement to your romance reads.
For quick pouring, here’s a simple guide to measurements: most of these cocktails use 2 oz of the main spirit (like bourbon, vodka, or Aperol), 3–4 oz of the mixer (such as tea, soda, or juice), and a splash (about 0.5–1 oz) of any liqueur or syrup for flavor. Garnishes are optional but recommended — a fresh fruit slice, sprig of mint or curl of citrus peel always makes the drink feel a little more special. Think of these recipes as flexible templates you can adjust to your taste.
More Details
Follow us on our socials:
Facebook … https://www.facebook.com/romanceontherockspodcast
Instagram … https:/www.instagram.com/romanceontherockspodcast
Pinterest … https:/www.pinterest.com/romanceontherockspodcast
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!
