Romancing the Shelf: Recent Episodes
Emily Alexander and Heidi Rehwaldt
Heidi and Emily are best friends who have been reading Nora Roberts’ books for over twenty years. If you are a fan of action, suspense, and thrillers all wrapped up in a glorious romance then join in as they discuss all of Nora Roberts’ romance novels. Be ready to laugh, sigh, and cringe as hundreds of book characters find their happy endings.
It is time to wrap up The Lost Brides trilogy! The Seven Rings (2025) was very different than we expected. Is Nora trying something new? Are we entering a new era of Nora? Listen to hear all of our thoughts!
We are continuing on with Nora's most recent trilogy and we have ...thoughts. The Mirror (2024) picks up right where The Inheritance left off, and we have SO MANY questions. But does this book have any answers? Come listen in, as we aren't holding back.
How can it be that we have caught up to Nora's most recent trilogy?? We were very excited to jump into this one. Old mansions, dead brides, and Maine views? We are there! Listen in as we discuss the first in The Lost Brides Trilogy: The Inheritance (2023).
Eve has got her work cut out for her on this one with an arrogant, copycat serial killer and the only clue is a piece of stationary?? You may want to get out a notepad as we try to keep these suspects straight during this discussion of Imitation In Death (2003).
Are you ready for some Roarke lore?? We are! We are coming back to In Death, and Eve has A LOT going on. Having to manage the home front on top of solving murders is tough! Join us as we discuss Portrait In Death (2003).
This book has one of our most...interesting Nora couples, and we aren't talking about our heroes! These villains are adding new levels to creepy, but our MC is on the case! We can't believe we've caught up to Nora's most recent standalone, Hidden Nature (2025).
Over 200 books in, and Nora is still taking us by surprise! The tropes are new and the villain is unlike another, but it still has those Nora elements that we know and love. We can't believe it, but we are discussing Mind Games (2024)!
If you've been sleeping on our movie watch episodes, PLEASE don't skip this one. We are discussing Nora's first two movie adaptations, and it was such a fun, crazy ride. Listen in as we break down the movies Magic Moments (1989) and Sanctuary (2001).
We aren't going to bury the lead. Over four decades in, and Nora is BRINGING it with Identity (2024). We have a hardworking heroine, a grumpy leading man, and a truly scary serial killer. This is a new read for both of us, and we are ready to rave!
Harry, Booth, Silas, oh my! Nora is bringing us a new epic with a charming thief and a touch of fate. Are we sensing some 90s Nora vibes?! We are discussing Nightwork (2022)!
Another trilogy coming to an end, and Nora went in a direction we weren't expecting! After all of these years, she can still surprise us. It is time to wrap things up with The Choice (2022)!
Continuing on with the Dragon Heart Trilogy! And...we have some big opinions on this one. Nora is expanding the world and upping the stakes. Listen in as we discuss The Becoming (2021)!
A new trilogy! This is a completely fresh read for Emily, and Heidi has only read the first one. Nora is bringing all the magic in this one: dragons, fairies, witches, and big bad grand-dad god. We are giving you all of our thoughts of The Awakening (2020).
We have one more In Death for you before we head back to 2020s Nora, and this one even has Eve crying! Vigilantes are doling out "justice," and Eve is on the case (screw public opinion!). We are discussing Purity In Death (2002).
We are back with another In Death! And...we may not see eye to eye with our girl Eve on everything in this one. gasp! Eve is bouncing around the country facing trauma and chasing a manipulative murderess, and Peabody is given a chance to shine. We are breaking it all down in this discussion of Reunion In Death (2002).
Grab your popcorn! It's time for another Nora movie discussion. This time we have two southern thrillers: Carolina Moon and Midnight Bayou. How did Lifetime do adapting these great Nora books? We have thoughts!
A fitness empire heiress and a graphic novel author find love after loss in Legacy (2021)! And there's an obsessed stalker, an cute smalltown in Maryland, and adorable dogs. It's a new Nora with all the staples, and we have much to discuss.
It's a new decade, and a brand new read for Emily! That is going to be the case for many books from here on, so if you love completely fresh takes then you'll love this season! This thriller has kidnapping, murders, a villainous mother, and so much more! We are breaking down Hideaway (2020).
Another decade is complete! Wow. There were some big Nora shifts in this decade, and we can't leave it behind without some reflection. Which books and characters were our favorites? Who was the scariest villain? What happened to side romances?? All that in more in this episode!
The last book of the 2010s is a blend of small town feels and heart-pounding tension. Nora has us asking throughout...wait, who is our villain?! Listen in as we discuss Under Currents (2019).
I think we can all agree, Patricia is SCARY! Also, Shelter In Place (2018) is not a romance. However, this book is a tense and thrilling suspense, and we are here for it.
Nora has been taking us for an emotional ride, and now it's time for Fallon to save the ENTIRE world. No big. We are discussing the epic conclution of this trilogy: The Rise of Magicks (2019).
Nora left us an emotional wreck after book one of this trilogy and has placed the weight of the world on baby Fallon's shoulders. Of Blood and Bone (2018) raises the stakes as our girl grows up and starts assembling the Dream Team. This is Emily's first read-through, so don't miss it!
We had to leave you with a cliff hanger in our last episode, but we are here to finish up our discussion of Year One (2017)! Nora is throwing the playbook out the window with this trilogy, and we have big feelings!
You think that after almost four decades you know Nora? Well our queen is embarking into new territory with this trilogy. First up is Year One (2017), and we have so much to say that it had to be a two-parter!
Ugh, what's worse than an entitled, bored, narcissistic rich boy? TWO entitled, rich, narcissistic boys. Eve has her hands full in this one with two killers, but thankfully she has the team (including Roarke behind her)! Listen as we try to contain our feminine rage as we discuss Seduction in Death (2001).
We are excited to be back with Eve and Roarke! We are loving seeing their relationship (both personal and professional) grow. But, uh oh, Peabody and McNab are NOT okay. And have we mentioned the gruesome murders that need to be solved? Listen in as we discuss Betrayal In Death (2001).
Grab your popcorn, it's time for a movie watch! Can Hollywood ever do a Nora book justice? Well we have some thoughts! Listen as we discuss the movie adaptations of Angel's Fall and Blue Smoke.
Well here we go.... For better or for worse, it is time for (in our opinion) Nora's darkest book. Definitely don't miss this discussion of Come Sundown (2017).
After so many Nora thrillers, we have asked ourselves...what happens to the family after this?? In The Obsession (2016) Nora is giving us an answer. The trauma is real here, but so is the healing!
This book has a lot of the hallmarks of a classic Nora fantasy series: magic, curses, and the age-old battle of good vs. evil all wrapped up in a beautiful Irish setting. Listen in as we discuss the epic conclusion to this series with Island of Glass (2016).
She's sexy, she's kind, and she has a tail...sometimes. It's our first (and only) Nora mermaid love story! Bay of Sighs (2016) takes us to an even darker place, and we are here for it.
Get excited, because we are starting a new trilogy that one of us has NEVER read. First up is Stars of Fortune (2015) with our reluctant seer Sasha and her street magic boyfriend. This trilogy has a lot of firsts, so listen in as we discuss!
We are back with In Death, and there is trouble in paradise! Eve has a mess on all sides in Judgment in Death (2000). Cops are dying, cops are dirty, cops (cough Webster cough) are hiding in her bushes, and Roarke isn't speaking to her! You don't want to miss this one!
Is this an In Death or Agatha Christie?? Witness In Death (2000) is scaling down the In Death universe to a more intimate mystery. It's a real whodunit and we loved it! Also, Eve and Roarke are super cute in this one. (Swoon.)
Can we really ever go home again? What about after our emotionally abusive husband is lost at sea and leaves us with a three year old and a mountain of debt? Welcome to The Liar (2015)! Shelby is trying to move on by moving back to her hometown, but her husband's drama just keeps following her... Listen in as we enjoy the small town feels!
Time and maturity is giving us a newfound perspective on these 2010 Nora's! This is the last episode of Season 7, and we are ending it with murder, mystery, a moody artist, and a peeping Tom heroine. Listen as we talk The Collector (2014)!
Oh my, did we have opinions on this one! And we desparately want to know your thoughts too! It's the final book in this trilogy, so of course, it is time to take down the big bad Cabhan and resolve the second chance romance between Fin and Branna. How does Nora do it all? Listen in as we discuss Blood Magick (2014).
Who doesn't love a friends-to-lovers story?! But while reading this story, we started to have some déjà vu.... We are breaking it all down in this episode as we discuss Connor and Meara in Shadow Spell (2014).
Another witchy Nora trilogy! Our heroine Iona goes to Ireland ready to find where she belongs. This one has charming Irish cousins, grumpy/sunshine meets boss/employee, and a big bad evil! Come listen to us discuss The Dark Witch (2013)!
In part 2 of "Nora Roberts is our secret best friend," we are headed to Boston! Our hero is suspected of murder and needs a safe haven, but someone is breaking into the family mansion looking for treasure and the cleaning lady keeps forcing him to drink water. Listen in on our discussion of Whiskey Beach (2013)!
Our heroine is a woman of many names - Elizabeth, Liz, Abigail - but who is she really? Well, our hero Brooks really wants to find out! Is he pushy or just dedicated to his job and community? Is Liz/Abby frustrating or endearing? Also, where did the Russian mafia go?? We have some mixed feelings on The Witness (2012). Listen in and let us know if you agree!
Another In Death! And the stakes are HIGH in this one. Eve is taking on Cassandra - a greedy terrorist group with a delusional self-image as selfless vigilantes. Even with all that going on, what's really on our mind is...what's happening with Peabody and McNab?? Listen in as we discuss Loyalty In Death (1999)!
We are back in the In Death universe! For one of us Conspiracy In Death (1999) is our favorite In Death so far, and for the other, it has our biggest heart flutter in the series! Don't miss this one!
Another classic opposites attract story! Or is it?? We are wrapping up the Inn Boonsboro Trilogy with big brother Ryder and our girl Hope (aka, The Perfect Hope). And we also have a ghost mystery to solve. Don't miss it!
Ah, the friends to lovers trope. Is there any more adorably sweet? Owen was Avery's first boyfriend and now one of her best friends. Can they be something more? Listen in as discuss The Last Boyfriend (2012)!
We are so excited to be in THE trilogy - the guidebook for Nora-land - the Inn Boonsboro trilogy! We will be starting with Claire and Beckett in The Next Always (2011), where the line between a sweet unrequited crush and an obsessive stalker is clearly drawn!
Fire jumping, equipment tampering, murder, and co-worker romance - it's Chasing Fire (2011)! We had so much fun with this one! Plus, the heroine is a real baddie - in the best way.
Can a girl just get some peace?? Poor Fiona needs to face, not just one, but two serial killers! Thankfully she finds a grumpy, carpenter boyfriend to help. We are loving the dogs and woodsy vibes in The Search (2010).
We have completed another Nora decade! The 2000s were so much fun, and we need to recap. Who were our favorite heroes and heroines? What were the big themes and changes through the decade? And, what are we looking forward to as we move into the 2010s? We have all that and more in this season wrap-up!
We just couldn't help ourselves. The Nora movie adaptations were calling to us and we had to answer! We watched the Lifetime adaptations of High Noon and Tribute, and it is time to discuss. Also on the agenda, what makes a great book to movie adaptation? Plus, some of our favorites!
Getting into the holiday spirit In Death style! We are closing out season 6 with Holiday In Death (1998). Is it wrong for us to say that we had SO MUCH fun while reading this festive Christmas tale with a murdering Santa Claus? Because we did! Seriously, don't miss this one!
A certain cop who struggles with work-life balance and her billionaire husband have been on our mind, so it is time to return to the In Death universe! Vegeance in Death (1997) doesn't disappoint with gruesome murders, explosions, passion, a trip to Ireland, and the introduction of McNab!
Parker always has a plan, but she didn't plan for bad-boy Malcolm! We are wrapping up the Bride Quartet with Happily Ever After (2010). This book gives us ALL the feels as a beautiful, friend-focused series gets wrapped up in a bow.
Our 100th episode! We had to celebrate with ceremony, so this is the Emidi Awards: Nora Edition. We have nominees and winners for a variety of categories, and we discuss almost 30 Nora titles! We also have honorable mention categories at the end, and we need YOU to weigh on the winners. Don't miss this one!
This episode we've got the tropes! If you love best friends to lovers or best friends brother then this is the Bride Quartet story for you. Del and Laurel have known each other FOREVER, but what happens when the attraction is out in the open? It is time for Savor the Moment (2010)!
Love is in the air, and no one loves love like our girl Emma! And, is this one of the spiciest Nora's we've read? Jack and Emma are heating things up in Bed of Roses (2009). Come listen!
Reading was a bit intense over the summer, so we are excited to go a little less high stakes. (Or is it??) It's the Bride Quartet! We are loving this friend group and the business they've built together. Our girl Mac is up first as we focus on Vision in White (2009)!
It's cooling off outside, so it's the perfect time to head to the rugged landscape of South Dakota! Black Hills (2009) has childhood friends, exes trope, big cats, and a murderous stalker that can't spell. Don't miss this one!
If you love a great whodunit, this is a great one! Tribute (2008) has a driven but vulnerable heroine, a hot but nerdy neighbor, and a decades long mystery to solve. We loved every minute!
When you are a top level hostage negotiator with a daughter and an agoraphobic mom, it can be hard to make time for love and romance! We were on the edge of our seats watching our heroine in High Noon (2007) try to balance it all. We had a lot to say in this one!
It has been quite the ride, but I think it's time to take this demon down! This is our third and final episode discussing the Sign of Seven trilogy, with a focus on Pagan Stone (2008)! Neither Gage nor Cybil ever planned on settling down, but is there room in their lives for love? Don't miss this exciting conclusion!
We are continuing on with our discussion of the Sign of Seven trilogy, with a focus this time on The Hollow (2008)! We are loving the sexy, loyal, hippie-raised, small town laywer that is Fox. Can he and NYC Layla make a lifetime work? Oh, and there's a demon wreaking havoc. Don't miss this one!
It's July, so there is better time to discuss The Sign of Seven Trilogy! This is one of Emily's all time favorites, full of small town vibes and demon scares. In this episode, we are diving deep into Blood Brothers (2007).
If you love age gap then we have the story for you! We are closing out The Circle Trilogy with a vampire and queen love story in Valley of Silence (2006). Don't miss the final battle at the end of this epic fantasy trilogy!
We are in full Nora-fantasy mode now! The Circle Trilogy has it all - vampires, witches, shape-shifters, demon hunters, and godesses with missions and really poor timing. This episode we are focusing on Morrigan's Cross (2006) and Dance of the Gods (2006).
We see something new from Nora in Angel's Fall (2006) as she makes use of an unreliable narrator. Was there even a murder? Is a killer playing mindgames? Or is our heroine's past trauma taking over? Come listen as we discuss it all!
We are kicking Season 6 off with a hot one! (Literally.) Blue Smoke (2005) delivers with great family dynamics, some love at first sight, and so much murder!
We are wrapping up the In the Garden trilogy and season 5 with Red Lily (2005)! We have the love story of a sweet, young mother coupled with a vengeful, body-possessing ghost! But she also really loves kids... Join us for this exciting conclusion!
We are so excited to discuss this trilogy that has so many unique elements within the Nora cannon! All of our heroines are mothers, our heroines represent three different decades of life, and don't forget the mothering but also homicidal ghost! In part 1, we are focusing on Blue Dahlia (2004) and Black Rose (2005).
Nora takes a distinct step in another direction in Northern Lights (2004). This book has all the intrigue and moody scenery we know and love, but does it have romance? We are discussing it all in this episode!
We have reached Emily's favorite Nora! A big statement, we know, but it's not hard to see why. Birthright (2003) has multiple love stories, mystery, family drama, and more! Listen in as we break it all down.
Who doesn't love a single mom with a bit of a chip on her shoulder? Zoe is used to handling everything herself, but she can't finish this epic quest all on her own! We are finishing up the Key Trilogy with Key of Valor (2003).
Who is ready for a quest?! The Key Trilogy brings together three women at a crossroads with action, mystery, mythology, magic, and love! In part one of our discussion, we are focusing on Key of Light (2003) and Key of Knowledge (2003).
A book so great we needed two episodes! We are finishing up our discussion of Three Fates (2002). It's time for the couples to fall in love and take Anita down!
The time has come! Three Fates (2002) is one of our all-time favorite Nora's! It is packed with great characters, mystery, murder, and love. So we couldn't fit it all in one episode! This is part one of our discussion of Three Fates.
It's time to brush up on your Italian and get ready for lots of family drama. We are talking about The Villa (2001)! This book is full of wine, murder, love, and even some humor. Come listen!
We are finishing up our discussion of the Three Sisters Island Trilogy with Face the Fire (2002)! We don't always think so highly of our hero in this one? Can he turn things around by the end? Don't miss this conclusion!
We have waited for this day a long time! It is time for the Three Sister's Island Trilogy! This trilogy is full of magic, suspense, friendship, and love. In part 1 of our discussion, we are focusing on Dance Upon the Air (2001) and Heaven and Earth (2001).
Thanks to our Patreon supporters, we have a new In Death episode for you! Continuing from where we left off, we are discussing Rapture In Death (1996) and Ceremony In Death (1997). And boy, we had some things to say. Listen in on our longest episode yet!
Nora brings all the sticky Southern feels in this one. No one does the South better! We are back in New Orleans with Midnight Bayou (2001). For all of those who love a ghost story, this is for you!
It's a new season and a new millenium! We are jumping into the 2000s with a Nora southern thriller: Carolina Moon (2000). Come listen as we discuss all the shocking twists and turns!
It's a new season and a new millenium! We are jumping into the 2000s with a Nora southern thriller: Carolina Moon (2000). Come listen as we discuss all the shocking twists and turns!
We have finished all of Nora's books from the 1990s, arguably the best Nora decade. It's time for us to relive the magic. We are discussing our favorites, the heroes and heroines, the themes, and what we are looking forward to in the next decade!
We have finished all of Nora's books from the 1990s, arguably the best Nora decade. It's time for us to relive the magic. We are discussing our favorites, the heroes and heroines, the themes, and what we are looking forward to in the next decade!
Before we leave the magic of Nora's Ireland, we have one more book to cover from the Gallaghers of Ardmore trilogy. Darcy and Trevor both think they are immune to love, so can they break Carrick and Lady Gwen's curse? We are discussing Heart of the Sea (2000)!
Before we leave the magic of Nora's Ireland, we have one more book to cover from the Gallaghers of Ardmore trilogy. Darcy and Trevor both think they are immune to love, so can they break Carrick and Lady Gwen's curse? We are discussing Heart of the Sea (2000)!
In this episode we are going back to Heidi's Nora roots! Jewels of the Sun was Heidi's first Nora ever and holds a very special place in her heart. This trilogy is full of beautiful scenery, Irish accents, and magic. In part one, we are focusing on Jewels of the Sun (1999) and Tears of the Moon (2000).
In this episode we are going back to Heidi's Nora roots! Jewels of the Sun was Heidi's first Nora ever and holds a very special place in her heart. This trilogy is full of beautiful scenery, Irish accents, and magic. In part one, we are focusing on Jewels of the Sun (1999) and Tears of the Moon (2000).
The conclusion of our three-part discussion on Nora's fantasy novellas! These last two include dream sex, battles, and werewolves, so you definitely want to check it out. Listen as we discuss the LAST novellas Nora has written outside of the In Death series: The Witching Hour (2003) and Wolf Moon (2004).
The conclusion of our three-part discussion on Nora's fantasy novellas! These last two include dream sex, battles, and werewolves, so you definitely want to check it out. Listen as we discuss the LAST novellas Nora has written outside of the In Death series: The Witching Hour (2003) and Wolf Moon (2004).
We are continuing our discussion of Nora's fantasy novellas, and we are already seeing growth from the last three discussed. Plus, you don't want to miss the book that Emily describes as an "80s fever dream." Come listen as we break down Winter Rose (2001) and A World Apart (2002).
From 1998 - 2004, Nora wrote seven standalone novellas - all with a magical flair. These are also the last novellas she has ever wrote outside of the In Death Series. This is part 1 of our discussion of these novellas, and in this episode we are focusing on Spellbound (1998), Ever After (1999), and In Dreams (2000).
If you love those Quinn brothers, we aren't done! It's time for Philip and Seth to find love. We are discussing Inner Harbor (1998) and Chesapeake Blue (2001).
You want heart flutters?! We've got them. It is time for the super sexy, lovable, fan-favorite Quinn brothers. In this episode, we are discussing Cam and Ethan's love stories in Sea Swept (1998) and Rising Tides (1998).
We are back with another movie discussion bonus episode! This time we are discussing Lifetime's adaptation of Montana Sky, and we have two guests joining us! Did we love it? Did we hate it? Come listen in and see if you agree.
Woah, did you see that twist coming?? Nora keeps you guessing all the way to the end with this murder mystery. River's End (1999) is full of family disfunction, trauma, and tragedy, but it's Nora so she still makes it fun!
We are kicking off summer with the perfect book! The Reef (1998) is full of sun, sand, treasure hunting, and murder plots! Can past pain and trauma be repaired to allow for a bright future? Listen in as we discuss this Nora epic.
We are finishing up our discussion of The Stars of Mithra trilogy! The focus is on Secret Star (1998). Do you love a grumpy cop who is afraid to love/be loved? Don't miss this one!
Is there anything more controversial in the book community as movie adaptations? Over a dozen Nora's have been turned into movies, and we watched two of them: Lifetime's Carnal Innocence and Netflix's Brazen. Listen in as we spill our opinions on the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Oh, the 90s! The Stars of Mithra (Nora's only Silhouette trilogy!) brings back the nostalgia for those longing for a time of cellular phones, phone books, and vulnerable/restrained women being super sexy. In part 1, we are discussing Hidden Star (1997) and Captive Star (1997).
This episode we are going on an international thrill ride! Homeport (1998) has family drama, repressed heroines, charming thieves, and an ending that will make you both gasp and say "eww...."
Sanctuary (1997) is a thrilling and suspenseful family drama, but is it a romance? Listen in as we discuss this Nora that we both have been sleeping on for almost two decades.
In our last episode, we watched Laura Templeton's life fall apart as her best friends, Margo and Kate, found love. Now it is time for Laura to get her own happy ending. This is part 2 of our discussion of Nora's Dream Trilogy, with a focus on Finding the Dream (1997).
It's time for another 90s trilogy (lucky you and lucky us)! The Dream Trilogy is centers around redemption stories and finding new dreams on the other side. In part 1, we are discussing Daring to Dream (1996) and Holding the Dream (1997).
It is time for a true Nora classic! This book has it all - family drama, female bonding, murder, and, of course, romance. Listen as we discuss Montana Sky (1996).
We are back with part 2 of the sexy, sweet, and (sometimes) problematic MacKade brothers! It's time for the two youngest MacKades to find love. In this episode, we are covering The Heart of Devin MacKade (1996) and The Fall of Shane MacKade (1996).
Do you love a bad boy? We do! It's time for the MacKade brothers. We are starting our discussion with our two oldest brothers with the Return of Rafe MacKade (1995) and the Pride of Jared MacKade (1995).
We are finishing our two-part discussion of the first three books in the In Death Series. Listen as we discuss Glory in Death (1996), and answer the BIG question: will we continue to read J.D. Robb?
It's a new season and we are off with a bang. You’ve asked and we are answering! We are reading the first three books in the In Death Series. These are completely new reads for us, and there's so much to say that we had to split this into two parts. Listen to part one as we discuss Naked In Death (1995) and Glory in Death (1995).
Tune in for Part 2 as we wrap up our discussion of the Born in Trilogy! We discuss Born in Shame (1996), and break down what makes a TRUE Nora trilogy.
We can't believe it! We have finally made it to (what we consider) the first true Nora trilogy! Listen to part one as we discuss Born in Fire (1994) and Born in Ice (1995).
If you love sticky family stories, we've got one for you today! True Betrayals (1995) has all the family-infighting, horse racing, and murder you could ask for!
We are back to murder, intrigue and complicated men who suppress their emotions! Join us as we discuss the romantic suspense Hidden Riches (1994).
It's the end of an era! Nora wrote her last standalones for Sillouette in the early 90s. Listen as we reminiscence and discuss Unfinished Business (1992), The Best Mistake (1994), and All I Want for Christmas (1994).
Yes, the dream came true! We visited Boonsboro, Maryland and stayed in Inn Boonsboro! Enjoy this bonus episode as we tell you all the details. (This episode and our trip is not sponsored in any way!)
We are finishing up the Donovan series with two books that, in our opinion, are very different. Whether you like your witches domestic or shape shifting, you'll want to listen as we discuss these fantasy classics: Charmed (1992) and Enchanted (1999).
Now fantasy is a Nora staple, but it wasn't always! In this episode, we are going back to the roots with her first books in the genre with the first two books in the Donovan Legacy: Captivated (1992) and Entranced (1992).
We love the Halloween season, especially when celebrating with some of Nora Roberts’ scarier titles. In this episode, we are giving you all the details of our 2nd annual Spooky Nora Book Bingo contest and recommending some of our favorite Nora books for October.
High-powered careers, frenemies, stalkers, and lots of murder - this book brings all the drama. Nora is in her element now. Listen in as we break all it all down in our discussion of Private Scandals (1993).
Nora loves a charming thief, and so do we! This Nora classic brings the magic, mystery, and thrill. How does it hold-up after 30 years since publication? Listen to our discussion of Honest Illusions (1992) to hear all our thoughts.
Full of murder, greed, lust, and secrets, the little town of Emmittsboro is not as quaint as it seems on the surface. Join us as we discuss one of Nora's darkest stories ever, Divine Evil (1992).
Two things in which Nora excels: Southern settings and serial killers. Carnal Innocence (1991) is a classic Nora thriller that will have you guessing until the end. Listen in as we discuss all the twists in turns!
These two heroines have something in common - a horrible ex who is in an even worse "father" to their respective kids. Can each woman learn to trust and find true love? It's the second and final part of our discussion of the Calhouns, with Suzanna's Surrender (1991) and Megan's Mate (1996).
Another Nora family series! And this one includes some danger and intrigue. We are starting our two-part discussion of the Calhoun family with Courting Catherine, A Man for Amanda, and For the Love of Lilah (all published in 1991).
Arson and a successful burglary ring make the conclusion to the Night Tales series heart-pounding until the very last page. Listen in as we come full circle with the Fletcher family with Night Smoke (1994) and Night Shield (2000).
We sit down with the hosts of Podcast In Death for a dive into the In Death series. Did Nora use her own earlier works as inspiration for this epic series that now spans over 50 books? Listen in to find out!
Stalkers, masked vigilantes, drug rings, sex traffickers... Nora isn't pulling any punches in her Night Tales series. We are starting this two-part discussion with Night Shift (1991), Night Shadow (1991), and Nightshade (1993).
Our last discussion of the Stanislaski family, and did Nora save the best for last? It is time for the younger generation to find love! Listen as we discuss the happy endings of the characters we've grown to love in Waiting for Nick (1997) and Considering Kate (2001).
We are continuing our discussion of the Stanislaski family with the two younger siblings, Rachel and Alex. These books are full of misunderstandings and steamy moments. Listen in as we discuss all the details in Falling for Rachel (1993) and Convincing Alex (1994).
You asked, and we answered! This bonus episode is for those who want to start reading Nora Roberts, but don't know where to begin. We (along with a special guest!) are providing book recommendations to start your Nora journey.
The start of another Nora family! This is part one of our three part discussion of the Stanislaski family. We are starting with the two oldest sibling with Taming Natasha (1990) and Luring a Lady (1991). Is this our favorite Nora family yet? Listen in to find out!
Old Hollywood glam and all the secrets and scandals that come with fame collide in this Nora Roberts' romantic thriller. We draw parallels between the murder and mob connections in this story to our last discussion on Public Secrets. You don't want to miss out on this discussion on early 90s Nora greatness!
A Nora Roberts epic! Rock and roll, fame, scandal, murder, and a coming of age story unlike any we have discussed so far. So much happens in Public Secrets (1990) that the book demanded its own episode.
Nora Roberts wrote an astounding 70 books in the 1980s, and we have now read them all. Listen in as we discuss the heroes who made us swoon, the heroines who shined, and all the tropes that make us keep coming back for more.
Are you ready for some Sci-fi romance Nora Roberts style? The romances of the Hornblower brothers and the Stone sisters are about sibling sets who are separated by over two centuries! Listen in as we discuss whether men from the future are any better than men from the present.
It's time for a vacation! Our discussion on the romances of 1989 cover an adventure to Greece, a cozy winter mountain cabin, and a friendly little inn on the Puget Sound. But don’t think these stories are all fluffy, getaway feels! Nora really brings the drama with some counterfeiting, smuggling, and an expectant mother on the run.
If you love a reluctant gunslinger and damsels who can take care of themselves then saddle up, because we are discussing the Loving Jack series, which includes Lawless - one of Nora's rare historical romances! We are also covering the first two books in the series, Loving Jack and Best Laid Plans.
We are concluding the O'Hurley series, and Nora has added danger and intrique to the family story! It's time for the oldest triplet and Hollywood star Chantel to find love, and let's not forget Trace. Where has the elusive brother been all of these years? Find out as we discuss Skin Deep (1988) and Without a Trace (1990).
It's time for the O'Hurleys, one of Nora's most colorful families! Triplets Chantel, Maddie, and Abby grow up to follow vastly different (but equally exciting!) paths. In part one we discuss the stories of Abby, the widowed mother of two, and Maddie, the Broadway Star, in The Last Honest Woman (1988) and Dance to the Piper (1988).
Do you like your heroes a bit pushy and your heroines guarded? Listen as we discuss the Nora romances of 1988, Local Hero and Name of the Game.
You'll want to keep all your lights on as we are discussing Nora's first (but definitely not last!) serial killers in the DC Detectives Duo, with Sacred Sins (1987) and Brazen Virtue (1988).
The beginning of Nora Roberts’ Bantam Thrillers! Hot Ice (1987) and Sweet Revenge (1988) are full of action, suspense, scary villains, and heart stopping moments. Nora is weaving the thrill with the romance, and we are here for it.
Is it destiny that brings these lovers together? Nora begins to dip her toes into the paranormal with Mind Over Matter while we experience a bit of early 80s déjà vu with Temptation.
It's the end of an era! In part 2 of Nora's Cordina Royal Family, we are discussing The Playboy Prince (1987) and, the last romance she ever wrote for Silhouette, Cordina's Crown Jewel (2002).
We are rolling out the red carpet with part one of our discussion of Nora's Cordina Royal Family, featuring Affaire Royale and Command Performance. When it comes to romance tropes, these books have it all: royalty, amnesia, a fake engagement, love triangles, and more on this episode of Romancing the Shelf.
Are you missing that old summer feeling? Well get ready for some serious summer vibes as we discuss Nora Roberts' Celebrity Magazine duo of Second Nature and One Summer in this episode of Romancing the Shelf!
Cozy up! In this episode of Romancing the Shelf we have two festive love stories from 1986, including her first published novella. You will feel the holiday spirit in this part two of Nora Roberts' novels from 1986 with Home for Christmas and A Will and a Way.
Spooky Nora Book Bingo is almost here! Romancing the Shelf is getting into the Halloween season by celebrating some of Nora Roberts’ paranormal books and hosting a book bingo contest on our Instagram page. In this episode, we are giving you all the details and recommending some of our favorite spooky Nora books.
In part one of Nora Roberts' novels of 1986 we are talking art forgery, drug smuggling, and sunken treasure. Join us as we try to unravel the mysteries in these action packed love stories in this episode of Romancing the Shelf.
It's heating up in the kitchen as we discuss the Great Chefs Duo: Summer Desserts and Lessons Learned. Do these couples have the ingredients to make love last? Find out in this episode of Romancing the Shelf!
In this episode of Romancing the Shelf we have two classic tales; one of city love and one of country love. In Dual Image we follow the vibrant life of Ariel Kirkwood in NYC and travel to a cattle ranch in Boundary Lines for a generations old family feud. This episode is part two of the Nora Roberts' novels of 1985.
What pairs well with love and romance? Murder! Or at least Nora thinks so. In this episode of Romancing the Shelf, we discuss her mysteries of 1985: The Right Path, Night Moves, and Partners.
Our MacGregor Madness online event is almost here! In this bonus episode, we are joined by our first guest to discuss the rules of MacGregor Madness and make predictions on which book will be voted as the best of all the Macgregors!
This is the last episode (but certainly not the least) of our MacGregor series! The Winning Hand (1998) and The Perfect Neighbor (1999) have the ingredients you love from a Nora Roberts romance - broody heroes, charming heroines, passion, discord, and, of course, love.
Steam and sizzle are just a couple of the words we use to describe the three novellas in Nora Roberts' MacGregor Grooms (1998). Our discussion of the MacGregors is winding down, but the love stories are really heating up in this episode of Romancing the Shelf.
The three Nora Roberts novellas in the MacGregor Brides (1997) pack a passionate punch! In this episode of Romancing the Shelf, listen as we discuss the next generation of MacGregor love stories.
Nora Roberts has only written three historical romances, and we are discussing two in this episode. Listen in as we dive into 18th century Scotland, Revolutionary New England, and of course the love story of the MacGregor family patriarch Daniel MacGregor with Rebellion (1988), In From the Cold (1990), and For Now, Forever (1987).
We continue our discussion of Nora Robert’s MacGregor family by reading and discussing All the Possibilities (1985) and One Man’s Art (1985), the stories of Alan MacGregor and Grant Campbell. We also talk about Nora's newest book, Hideaway, out on May 26th! For more about Hideaway check out the link to the official Nora Roberts blog post: https://fallintothestory.com/hideaway/
Nora Roberts wrote more about the MacGregor family than she has any other with a total of 8 books and 7 novellas, and of course we will discuss them all! We will be introducing the family the same as Nora did, with the stories of Serena and Caine MacGregor, in the books Playing the Odds (1985) and Tempting Fate (1985).
Women in power positions with messy romantic pasts and the (famous) men who love them! Check out episode 9 to hear all about it as we discuss the last three of Nora Roberts’ books published in 1984: The Law is a Lady, Rules of the Game, and Opposites Attract.
Another episode of Romancing the Shelf featuring Men With Secrets! We will discuss three Nora Roberts books from 1984 with heroes who are all keeping something on the DL - First Impressions, A Matter of Choice, and Less of a Stranger.
Did you know Nora Roberts has disowned one of her books? In this episode, we will be discussing that infamous title (Promise Me Tomorrow) along with three other of Nora Roberts’ novels from 1984 - Endings and Beginnings, Storm Warning, and Sullivan’s Woman. Check out this interview for Nora’s view on her only disowned book: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/06/22/real-romance-2
Nora Roberts is a master at exploring character career options. In Part 2 of our discussion of Nora’s books from 1983, we meet musicians, a magician, and an anthropologist. In this episode of Romancing the Shelf we discuss bad parenting, career women, and, of course, love.
Have you ever read a romance book with a mother-daughter love triangle? Well, now we have! For that and more, join us as we read three of Nora Roberts’ books from 1983 - From This Day, Untamed, and Her Mother’s Keeper.
Nora’s first, but definitely not her last, books about the world of professional ballet. Career ambitions and love collide as we discuss two of Nora Roberts’ ballerina love stories - Reflections (1983) and Dance of Dreams (1983).
Oh, the Nora Roberts’ novels of 1982. Heroines with child-like innocence. Aggressively dominate heroes who lack communication skills. We love them but we kinda also maybe hate them. Hear the good, the bad, and glimmers of Nora Roberts’ brilliance in episode 2 of Romancing the Shelf!
In our first ever episode, we start at the beginning of Nora Roberts’ career with her book, Irish Thoroughbred, published in 1981. We also talk about the other books in the Irish Hearts trilogy, Irish Rose, published in 1992, and Irish Rebel, published in 2000.