If you’ve ever read a historical romance and thought, “I would 100% sneak into a gambling den just for the drama”, then this week’s episode is for you!

This week, Nikki and Meg are diving into Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean, a book that’s all about flouting societal expectations and reforming the bad boys of the aristocracy.

Inside the Episode:

* Why we think regency romance is basically motorcycle club romance (but with cravats)

* How historical romance tropes hit different in 2025

* The public vs. private identity struggle in historical romance (aka why women can’t catch a break)

* And why we love heroines who say fuck it and go on a scandalous adventure.

If you’re a longtime historical romance reader or you’re just here for hot Regency men who grunt a lot, check us out on Substack, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify!

Books & Media We Mention

Not Catching Love (Accidental Love book 5) by Saxon James

the “All Twerk No Play” cover release

The Bridgerton episode of First Dates and Soulmates: episode 4 for the book series, and episode 8 for season 3 of the tv show.

Fated Mates podcast episode on Dukes

https://fatedmates.net/episodes/2024/5/7/0635-dukes-dukes-dukes

The Bombshell Brides series by Cassie Mint

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Download your copy of the 2025 book bingo card at https://bit.ly/fdsmbingo

View the full show notes on our Substack.

Order Meg’s debut novel, Peppermint Bark, No Bite (affiliate link)

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