Season 4, Episode 27: Bookish Baddies and Baes (ft. Book Influencer Raena Ashanti)

Season 4, Episode 27: Bookish Baddies and Baes (ft. Book Influencer Raena Ashanti)

Author: Tati R. and Yaki E May 12, 2023 Duration: 56:33

The question that I ask all my guests is "When did you first fall in love with romance novels?" And on today's episode, I have the pleasure of exploring the love of romance books with BookToker and Book Influencer Raena Ashanti aka Raena Grant. Hailing from Flint, MI, Raena is a lover of all things bookish, especially those written by Black authors. We talk all things bookish from tropes to favorite authors, and why indie romance is leading the way in terms of representation for Black romance. We also talk about her collective of "book baddies" and how they keep her jonesing for the next, hot book. For more on Raena and her bookish baes, visit her IG @RaenaAshanti or her TikTok @ChaletIntheCity


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There’s a particular comfort in losing yourself in a romantic story, whether it’s on screen or on the page. Romance in Colour is that feeling turned into conversation, hosted by real-life friends Tati R. and Yaki E. Tati, a romance author, and Dr. Yaki, a psychologist, share more than just a friendship-they share a deep, abiding love for romance narratives and a specific lens shaped by their experiences. This podcast lives in the space where their fandom meets thoughtful discussion, breaking down everything from beloved TV movies to trending romance novels. They aren’t just reviewing plots; they’re diving into the emotional mechanics, the cultural touchstones, and the specific joys of seeing stories through a Black Xennial perspective. You’ll hear the easy rapport of two friends who get why a certain trope works or why a character’s journey resonates, blending professional insight with genuine fan enthusiasm. It’s for anyone who believes a perfect afternoon involves a great love story and wants to unpack it with some smart, funny people. Tune in to hear them quench that mutual thirst for romance and hand you the glass, episode by episode.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Romance in Colour
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