689. RT Rewind: May 2016 Ads & Features

689. RT Rewind: May 2016 Ads & Features

Author: Sarah Wendell October 17, 2025 Duration: 1:01:23
Smart Podcast, Trashy Books: A Romance Novel Podcast
ArtsBooksFiction

We’re going back to May 2016 to look at the Ads & Features in Romantic Times magazine. The kilts are kilting and the abs are ab-ing, and we’ve got some questions.


  • How do we feel about the terms “book boyfriend” and “pre-con”?
  • How much of the 2016 conference depended on Twitter to announce pop up signings and special limited time events?
  • And do you remember how important Twitter was to a conference?
  • How many different ways are there to photograph a very muscled shirtless man? I think we’re going to see all of them.


So hop into the time machine, we’ve got the snacks, and we’re off to May 2016.


Patreon folks, you have an extended cut of this episode, available through the app or through your private feed.


We also mentioned Elyse’s review of Imagines, complete with Amanda’s specialty Photoshop.

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If you’ve ever felt a little defensive about loving romance novels, or just want to dive deeper into the books you can’t put down, Smart Podcast, Trashy Books: A Romance Novel Podcast is your perfect companion. Host Sarah Wendell approaches the genre with a critic’s sharp mind and a fan’s enthusiastic heart, creating conversations that are as thoughtful as they are joyful. This isn’t just author interviews, though you’ll hear brilliant voices like Ilona Andrews, Sarah J. Maas, and the wonderfully unique Chuck Tingle. The scope of the podcast is deliberately wide, bringing in reviewers, librarians, editors, and publishing professionals to examine every facet of the romance world. You’ll get honest talk about tropes and trends, the business behind the books, and why these stories resonate so powerfully with millions of readers. Regular appearances from Amanda Diehl add another layer of camaraderie and insight. Listening feels like being part of a smart, welcoming book club where no opinion is dismissed and passion is a given. It’s a celebration of a genre that dominates fiction, explored with humor, intelligence, and genuine curiosity. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or a curious newcomer, this podcast offers a rich, engaging, and deeply human look at the stories we love.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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Smart Podcast, Trashy Books: A Romance Novel Podcast
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