Reading Under the Covers: A Romance Novel Podcast
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.
This discussion references themes from the book including non-consent/forced seduction, misogyny, and historical power dynamics. Please take care of yourself.
Our 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.
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