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Reading Under the Covers: A Romance Novel PodcastAuthor: Under the Covers Book Blog
A bookish podcast where 2 friends fangirl about all things books and romance Language: en Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Can You Love a Problematic Classic? The Flame and the Flower Wrap-Up (with Kate Baxter)
Episode 293
Friday, 20 March, 2026
We’re wrapping up our first Ripped & Ravished Book Club read: The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, one of the most foundational (and most debated) romance novels of all time.In this episode, Francesca (Under the Covers Book Blog) and Becky (Too Stupid to Live Podcast) are joined by special guest Kate Baxter / Amanda Bonilla, who first read Woodiwiss as a teenager and reread The Flame and the Flower with us for the club. Together we unpack what still works, what doesn’t, and why this book’s fingerprints are still all over romance today.We talk about reading vintage romance with modern eyes (without pretending), the tropes that never died (makeover/clothing montage, “touch her and die,” instant obsession), and why Brandon Birmingham might be the granddaddy of morally gray/dark romance heroes.We also get into the wild genre bridges: how bodice rippers helped pave the way for paranormal romance, the role of “danger + destiny” storytelling, and why 2010s PNR is having a moment again, perfect timing, because Amanda’s paranormal romance The Last True Vampire is being re-released (revamped!) in May 2026.And yes: we address the truly iconic, deeply confusing details, like the book’s bath economy and Brandon’s legendary hairiness.Content noteThis discussion references themes from the book including non-consent/forced seduction, misogyny, and historical power dynamics. Please take care of yourself.Links mentionedHow to read vintage bodice rippers (modern guide): https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/read-vintage-bodice-rippers/The Flame and the Flower review + episode hub: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/the-flame-and-the-flower-review/Ripped & Ravished Book Club hub: https://www.underthecoversbookblog.com/bodice-ripper-book-club/What’s next in the book clubOur next Ripped & Ravished pick for March/April is Tender Is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey (first-time read for Francesca + Becky), and we’ll kick off discussion in early April.✨ Loved the episode?Follow Reading Under the Covers wherever you listen and leave a quick review. It helps more romance readers find us (and lets me know what you’re loving). 💕💌 Talk to Me:Got a rec, trope request, or hot take? → Drop me a voice message.☕ Support the Show:Enjoyed hanging out? Leave us a tip. Even a dollar keeps the mics on and the coffee flowing.📚 Stay Connected:Blog: reviews, book lists, and seasonal reading inspo.YouTube: book chats, reading lifestyle and recs.Newsletter: join our insider for the latest updates.💖 This episode may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the show!
