Lexi Blake Interview

In this episode of Unfiltered Romance Nights, hosts Kolleen and Marjorie sit down with acclaimed audiobook narratorSamantha Brentmoor for an in-depth conversation about the art, discipline, and realities of romance narration. Samantha shares how her background in theater and voice work led her into audiobooks, and what surprised her most when she stepped into her first full-length recording.Throughout the episode, the conversation explores the behind-the-scenes demands of narration, from the physical and mental stamina required for long recording sessions to the intentional preparation that goes into developing believable, emotionally grounded characters. Samantha offers insight into her daily rituals, creative practices, and the balance between technical precision and emotional authenticity in performance.The hosts also dive into the mechanics of duet narration, discussing how separate recordings, timing tools, and post-production collaboration come together to create a seamless listening experience. Along the way, they reflect on the evolving romance genre, the responsibility narrators carry when handling intimate or emotionally charged scenes, and the importance of connection between narrators, authors, and listeners.The episode closes with a look ahead at Samantha’s upcoming projects, including new releases and the possibility of a future narrator tour, highlighting the growing visibility and community within the audiobook world.**This episode was edited and produced by Spellcraft Novel Media.**

In this episode of Unfiltered Romance Nights, hosts Kolleen and Marjorie dive into Lucy Smoke’s Gods of Hazelwoodduet, Burn With Me and Fall With Me. The discussion begins with a spoiler-free overview of the series, introducing Aurora and Isaac and the dark, obsessive dynamic at the center of their relationship.As the episode unfolds, the hosts share their honest reactions to the pacing, character development, and repetitive structure of the story. They unpack how miscommunication between the main characters weakens the emotional tension and contributes to a narrative that often feels cyclical rather than suspenseful.Kolleen and Marjorie also examine the execution of dark romance elements, including questions of consent, control, and emotional impact. This leads to a broader conversation about expectations within the genre, particularly the importance of growth, accountability, and intentional storytelling when handling heavy themes. The episode closes with a candid reflection on unresolved plot points, underdeveloped characters, and missed opportunities that ultimately left the hosts feeling frustrated, while still acknowledging the potential for a more compelling story.**This episode was edited and produced by Spellcraft Novel Media.**

Season Three of Unfiltered Romance Nights is officially underway. In this premiere episode, hosts Kolleen and Marjorie dive into their 2026 reading goals, upcoming romance releases they are most excited about, and the realities of managing ARC teams. They discuss the pressures that can come with reading expectations, how controversial authors and challenging themes impact the reading experience, and what readers can do to protect their joy. The episode also previews what’s ahead this season, including more author interviews, refreshed episode structure, and increased listener involvement. The hosts wrap up by reflecting on the past year and sharing their excitement for the future of the podcast.In This EpisodeKicking off Season Three of Unfiltered Romance Nights2026 reading goals and anticipated releasesManaging TBR lists and ARC team pressureThoughts on controversial authors and difficult themesMost anticipated reads for the yearWhat’s changing in Season ThreeUpcoming author interviewsHow listeners can engage and share recommendations**This episode was edited and produced by Spellcraft Novel Media.**

We had the pleasure of interviewing Lexi Blake and chatted her writing journey and all things Brooke's Bliss.❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️Don’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers. Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspodFollow your hosts:KolleenTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenireneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenireneMarjorieTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads

We had the pleasure of interviewing Lucy Rivers and chatted all thing audiobooks.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights01:08 Journey into Audiobook Narration04:30 First Recording Experience06:11 Life Beyond the Booth09:23 Comfort Reads and Audiobooks10:52 Preparation Rituals for Recording13:37 Behind the Scenes of Audiobook Narration15:18 Editing and Corrections in Audiobooks18:19 Collaboration with Authors21:22 Adapting Voices for Different Genres25:01 Full Cast Audiobooks25:35 Navigating Character Distinctions27:53 The Dark Side of Romance28:59 Authenticity in Spicy Scenes30:04 Bloopers and Accidental Humor32:22 Challenging Narrations and Character Depth34:07 Auditioning in the Audiobook World35:36 The Time Investment in Audiobook Production38:01 The Complexity of Language in Narration40:05 Voice Management and Energy During Recording41:26 Memorable Bloopers and Outtakes44:31 The Realities of Romance and Preparation45:44 Connecting with Authors and Events48:08 The Joy of Smaller Book Events49:28 Dream Narration Projects51:06 Upcoming Releases and Exciting Projects53:01 Narration Styles and Preferences55:30 The Art of Narration and Personal Style❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️ Follow Lucy Rivers on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akalucyriversTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@akalucyriversDon’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspod Follow your hosts: Kolleen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenirene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenirene Marjorie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreads Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads 

Jagger Cole returns for another unforgettable conversation. We got to chat with him all things Dance of Defiance! He may or may not have spilled spoilers.Chapters00:00 Welcome Back to Unfiltered Romance Nights02:48 The Writing Process: Music and Inspiration05:26 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life08:16 Exploring New Genres and Tropes10:57 Navigating Male-Male Relationships in Romance13:28 The Complexity of Writing Diverse Characters16:34 The Balance Between Personal and Marketable Writing19:12 Advice for Aspiring Writers21:45 The Challenges of Writing MM Romance24:26 Reader Reactions and Expectations27:17 The Importance of Representation in Romance30:12 The Impact of Reader Feedback32:40 The Hardest Scenes to Write35:41 The Future of Writing and Public Perception44:12 Progressive Perspectives on Identity and Acceptance46:57 Navigating Identity in Different Cultures49:08 The Struggles of Addiction and Identity51:15 Alcoholism: A Cultural Lens54:33 Teasing Out Future Storylines57:04 Character Development and Emotional Depth01:02:45 Exploring Character Relationships01:12:12 Adapting Stories for the Screen❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️Learn more about Jagger Cole:Website: https://jaggercolewrites.com/ Follow Jagger on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaggerColeAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaggercoleauthorTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorjaggercoleDon’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspod Follow your hosts: Kolleen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenirene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenirene Marjorie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreads Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads

In this episode, we got to chat with one of our favorite authors - C.R. Jane and talk things Merry Me.Thank you so much C.R. Jane, Podium Entertainment and Valentine PR Team.Hope you enjoy as much as we did!Chapters00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights01:06 From Law to Literature: CR Jane's Journey03:32 Finding Freedom in Writing05:28 The Creative Process: Writing Style and Inspiration11:51 Incorporating Personal Life into Fiction13:24 Lessons Learned in Publishing17:06 Advice for Aspiring Authors22:27 Creating 'Marry Me': Inspiration and Themes26:05 Character Development and Reader Expectations28:49 Illustrated Covers and Book Aesthetics29:56 Pre-Wedding Activities and Southern Culture30:45 Character Evolution and Writing Process32:30 Challenges in Writing Emotional Scenes34:14 Character Interactions and Personal Connections35:09 Adapting Books into Movies37:01 Building a Literary Universe38:52 Writing Dynamics: Why Choose vs. MF40:46 Memorable Scenes and Author Experiences48:05 Awakening to Recognition48:28 Book Signings and Reader Interactions49:47 Surreal Moments of Fame51:03 Emotional Connections at Signings52:28 Upcoming Events and Signings54:15 Future Book Releases and Genres55:54 Holiday Book Launch and Marketing Ideas57:46 Cultural Perspectives on Holiday Celebrations58:49 First Full-Length Holiday Book01:01:07 Expanding the Pucking Wrong Series01:03:58 Dreams of Adaptations and Future Projects❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️Learn more about C.R. Jane:Website: https://www.crjanebooks.com/ Follow C.R. Jane on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crjaneauthor/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@crjaneauthor?Don’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspod Follow your hosts: Kolleen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenirene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenirene Marjorie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreads Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads 

Join us for an exclusive chat with October Book Club Box author Nikkita Bell! The brilliant mind behind The Bombshell Devil's Advocate.❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️Learn more about Nikkita Bell:Website: https://www.nikkitabell.com/Follow Nikkita on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkitabell/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nikkitabellDon’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspodFollow your hosts:KolleenTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenireneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenireneMarjorieTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads

 Bestselling Dark Romance Author Nyla K joins us for a raw and riveting conversation about her twisted love stories, fearless characters, and the emotional depths behind the spice. We talk inspiration, taboo, and what keeps readers coming back for more. Don’t miss this deep dive into the mind behind some of the genre’s most addictive reads! Chapters00:00 Introduction to Unfiltered Romance Nights01:03 Nyla Kay's Journey to Writing03:47 The Impact of TikTok on Romance Novels06:49 Exploring Dark MM Romance09:14 Writing Process and Inspirations11:15 Unique Sources of Inspiration16:05 Future Writing Aspirations and Genres20:56 Lessons Learned in Publishing27:25 Navigating Social Media as an Author28:22 Living Through Characters: A Day in Their Lives33:05 Crafting Tension: Enemies to Lovers and Step-Siblings49:23 Unexpected Character Growth: Surprises in Writing51:27 Humorous Moments and Character Dynamics53:01 Emotional Challenges in Writing56:17 Character Growth and Redemption58:28 The Importance of Therapy and Healing01:00:03 Favorite Characters and Their Appeal01:03:30 Dream Casting for Adaptations01:06:52 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking01:11:23 Cultural Perspectives on Filmmaking01:12:48 Emotional Depth in Storytelling01:15:23 The Balance of Spicy and Emotional Scenes01:17:04 Character Dynamics and Relationships01:18:27 The Future of LGBTQ+ Representation in Film01:24:09 Upcoming Projects and Events❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️Learn more about Nyla K:Website: https://authornylak.com/Follow Nyla K on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornylak/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nylakauthor Don’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspod Follow your hosts: Kolleen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenirene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenirene Marjorie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreads Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads 

In this episode, hosts Kolleen and Marjorie welcome Bestselling Author Jewel E. Ann to discuss her journey into writing, the impact of Amazon on indie authors, and the importance of branding and marketing in today's publishing landscape. Jewel shares insights into her creative process, favorite tropes, and the emotional rollercoaster of release days. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing the need for resilience in the face of criticism. The conversation culminates in a discussion about her latest book, The Homemaker, and the inspiration behind it. In this engaging conversation, Jewel E. Ann discusses her latest book, 'The Homemaker,' focusing on character development, particularly the endearing qualities of Murphy and the mysterious nature of Alice. The dialogue explores themes of love's complexities, emotional endings, and the importance of reader expectations. Jewel shares insights into her writing process, the significance of plot twists, and her hopes for future stories. The conversation also touches on the desire for more impactful romantic comedies and the fun of imagining who would play her characters in a film adaptation.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights01:28 The Journey to Becoming an Author07:09 Finding Balance: Writing and Personal Life09:10 The First Story: A Leap into Publishing14:19 Writing Process: Music and Inspiration17:42 Exploring Tropes: Favorites and Future Aspirations22:22 Lessons Learned in Publishing28:10 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Marketing32:10 Release Day Reflections34:09 Advice for New Writers37:20 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Publishing40:32 Creating Authentic Characters41:42 The Inspiration Behind 'The Homemaker'45:29 Character Dynamics: Alice and Murphy51:18 Plot Twists and Reader Reactions56:04 The Messiness of Love56:46 Future Stories and Character Returns57:31 Casting Dreams for 'The Homemaker'01:00:53 The Complexity of Romance01:05:00 Character Dynamics and Relationships01:12:30 Exploring Themes of Love and Judgment01:18:01 Future Projects and Signings❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️ Learn more about Jewel E. Ann:Website: https://jeweleannbooks.com/Follow Jewel on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjeweleann/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjeweleann  Don’t forget to rate and/or review us on your preferred listening platform. Thank you!DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers. Follow our social media pages:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfilteredromancenights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredromancenightspodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredromancenightspod Follow your hosts: Kolleen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookswith_kolleenirene Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolleenirene Marjorie TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marj_spicyreads Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marj_spicyreads