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Ever wondered how Mexican vaqueros shaped the American cowboy myth? Join us as Adriana Herrera and Nikki Payne shed light on the forgotten pioneers of the West. Learn how Hollywood's portrayal of Mexico as a lawless frontier served to justify American expansionism, and discover the vaquero's true legacy that dates back to the Spanish conquistadors. Prepare to challenge your understanding of cowboy skills and uncover the often-overlooked influence of vaquero culture on today's Western narratives.

We dive deep into the romanticized cowboy narrative, comparing it to the rich storytelling traditions of Mexican telenovelas. Through the lens of "Fuego en la Sangre," you'll see how themes of class struggle and the alpha hero archetype from humble beginnings are central to both cultures. Discover how notions of earned skill and valor, deeply rooted in vaquero tradition, have shaped our ideals of heroism and identity in the American West. This exploration not only bridges historical divides but also celebrates the vaquero's indelible mark on cowboy mythos.

The US-Mexico border is more than just a line on a map—it’s a powerful symbol in Western media and political rhetoric. From the early days of Texas' fight for independence to the modern-day implications, we unravel the complex narratives that have long overshadowed Mexican contributions. Dive into cowboy romances where love battles class divides, and see how stereotypical portrayals have persisted in popular media. As we wrap up our series, we invite you, our listeners, to share your thoughts and engage with us as we continue to uncover hidden histories and foster a sense of community.

Read these award-winning books from our co-hosts:
Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
In this contemporary, diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera.
All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss
Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In this week's episode of "Unbound," Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera, invite you to indulge in a sensory overload as they dissect Beyonce's latest masterpiece, "Renaissance." Through their unique blend of pop culture expertise and candid conversations, our hosts will not only break down each track but also complement them with delicious wine and cheese pairings in the form of a book recommendation. 

From the first thumping notes of "I'm That Girl" to the rousing finale of "Summer Renaissance," we'll explore the themes and sounds that make up Beyonce's ode to the club scene. As the beats take us on a journey through self-love, freedom, and identity, Nikki and Adriana suggest books that mirror the same unapologetic energy and passion as Beyonce's work. Each literary recommendation will transport listeners into a world where they feel empowered, liberated, and enamored. 

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:
Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera
All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss
Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In this week's intriguing episode of Unbound, titled "Everything Your Man Won't Do," hosts Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera dive headfirst into the complexities of relationships and the myriad ways their male protagonists might differ from what listeners expect. They explore the fascinating topic of how certain actions or inactions can make or break a connection, particularly when it comes to characters of color in a Western romance setting. The discussion revolves around the idea that readers often crave redemption arcs for their favorite characters, but is it necessary for Black leads to undergo such a transformation? Is there room for growth without atonement?

Join Nikki and Adriana as they delve into the nuances of character development, the potential double standards applied to Black heroes, and how these tropes either enrich or stifle the genre. Through candid conversations, thought-provoking anecdotes, and a deep appreciation for storytelling, the cohosts unpack the expectations surrounding masculinity, desires, and the journey towards fulfillment in a world where legends are born. Get ready to reconsider common conventions and embrace new perspectives on love, honor, and what constitutes the irresistible cowboy.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)

In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

Interact with us at

TikTok: @unbound.pod

Instagram: unboundpod

X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 

https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:

https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss

Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In this scorching installment of Unbound, hosts Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera welcome acclaimed author Beverly Jenkins to the podcast. Known for her captivating blend of historical romance and western adventure with BIPOC leads, Jenkins brings her unique perspective on the genre as she joins our dynamic duo for a riveting discussion about the allure of the Wild West.

Episode 3 dives into the heart of the western romance genre with Beverly Jenkins' take on the frontier experience and its irresistible charm. The trio explores the world-building behind Jenkins' novels and how she breathes life into stories that reflect the diversity and dynamism of the Old West. Jenkins shares her inspiration for creating strong, unapologetic characters who refuse to be bound by societal norms and defy expectations in their pursuit of love and happiness. From steamy encounters under the vast skies to epic sagas of courage and resilience, Jenkins reveals the secrets behind crafting a romance that blossoms amidst the sprawling backdrop of the American frontier.

Throughout the episode, Nikki, Adriana, and Beverly discuss the evolution of the western romance genre, touching on the importance of representation in storytelling and the impact it has had on both readers and writers alike. They also delve into the role of Black cowboys and outlaws in shaping the history of the West, debunking myths and shedding light on the often-overlooked contributions of people of color in this iconic period. With wit and wisdom, Jenkins offers insightful advice for aspiring authors looking to add depth and authenticity to their own western romances, emphasizing the power of research and empathy in capturing the essence of a time when love knew no bounds.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

Interact with Beverly Jenkins at https://www.beverlyjenkins.net/

Get Beverly Jekins' newest book: A Christmas to Remember
Ever since Bernadine Brown bought the town of Henry Adams, her relationship with diner owner Malachi “Mal” July has had its share of ups and downs. But now they’re finally ready to say “I do.”
Available everywhere and https://www.beverlyjenkins.net/books/the-blessings-series/a-christmas-to-remember/#buy-today

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss
Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In this special interstitial episode of Unbound, your favorite hosts, Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera, dive deep into the captivating world of Bridgerton. Their enchanting conversation explores the show's cultural impact, its intricate plot, and its diverse, empowered characters.Discover insights on how the show deconstructs and redefines societal expectations while preserving the charm of a period drama. They discuss the role of the regency era as a backdrop for exploring issues of class, gender, and race in modern society. Joining them is Amanda-Rea Prescott, a geeky historian who tracks British TV and all things geek-chic. Together, they dissect the historical accuracy, social commentary, and subversion of tropes that will have everyone talking.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)

In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

How you can support Amanda-Rea Prescott 

Website: https://amandaraeprescott.com/

X: https://x.com/amandarprescott

Interact with us at

TikTok: @unbound.pod

Instagram: unboundpod

X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 

https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:

https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss

Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In the second episode of Unbound, Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera explore the wild, wild world of gay cowboys. They delve into the history of the bandana code, a secret language used to communicate sexual desires within the LGBTQ+ community. But what happens when you're a queer cowboy living out on the range? How do you find connection and community in a place where there aren't any women around? Join us as we unpack the unique challenges and joys of being a gay cowboy in the modern West. Don't miss this hilarious and heartwarming conversation about love, identity, and finding your tribe in unexpected places.

Romance read for this episode is Marathon Cowboys by Sarah Black. 

https://www.amazon.com/Marathon-Cowboys-Sarah-Black-ebook/dp/B0067MYS3U

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)

In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard. 

Interact with us at

TikTok: @unbound.pod

Instagram: unboundpod

X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at: 

https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:

https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss

Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

Send us a text

The first interstitial of the Unbound Podcast, we are getting political. Adriana and Nikki pic up the mic to unpack what makes romance with BIPOC inexorably tied to a message of resistance, and why that matters. 

Our guest this week is Regina Black. She discusses the impact of Authors on relationships and romance as political. The conversation revolves around the idea that authors are not just writers but visionaries who can inspire change and create new possibilities. We'll be discussing the importance of representation in media and how it can impact our perception of ourselves and others. This episode is all about the power of storytelling and how it can shape our reality

Here’s a quick glimpse of Regina Black’s newest book, “The Art Of Scandal”

On the night of her husband Matt’s fortieth birthday, Rachel Abbott receives a sexy, explicit text from her husband that she quickly realizes was meant for another woman. Divorce is inevitable, and Rachel is determined not to leave her thirteen-year marriage empty handed. Meanwhile, Matt, a rising star mayor with his eye on the White House, can’t afford a messy split in the middle of his reelection campaign. They strike a deal: Rachel gets one million dollars and their lavish house in the wealthy DC suburb of Oasis Springs, as long as she keeps playing the ideal Black trophy wife until the election.

Then Rachel meets Nathan Vasquez, a very handsome, very lost twenty-six-year-old artist, and their connection makes Rachel forget about being the perfect politician’s wife. As Rachel reawakens Nathan’s long-dormant artistic aspirations, their attraction becomes impossible to resist. But secrets are hard to keep in a town like Oasis Springs, and Nathan has a few of his own. With the risk of scandal looming and their hearts on the line, they’ll have to decide whether the possibility of losing everything is worth taking a chance on love.

The Art of Scandal is a sizzling, conversation-starting debut about rekindling passion, the transformative power of art, and finding love in unexpected places.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
 In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard.

Meet Regina Black
website: https://www.reginablack.com
Interviews: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5dz4Jpw3np0A3GcCR1bR1L
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reginablackwrites/
X: 

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The first episode of the Unbound Podcast, where the worlds of pop culture and steamy romance literature collide. In this series your hosts and romance authors Adriana Herrera and Nikki Payne, will guide you through the depths of passion, exploring the corners of literature and storytelling that are often overlooked.

 In our inaugural episode, we're diving into the wild west of romance. Join us as we explore the ways in which the western genre has been reimagined as a love story. From the dusty trails of cowboys and outlaws to the saloons and brothels of town, we'll examine how the western has become a hotbed of passion and desire.
 
 Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera are your guides on this journey through the uncharted territory of romance in the wild west. With their unique perspectives as authors and fans of the genre, they'll dissect the tropes, characters, and settings that have captured hearts everywhere. So saddle up and join us as we ride off into the sunset. 

Our guest this week is Satoria Ray. She is having a Gaza Book Auction to raise funds to send to Palastenians it can be found at https://www.32auctions.com/gazabookauction?r=1&t=all and in her link trees at.

TickTock: https://www.tiktok.com/@satrayreads
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/satrayreads/
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/satrayreads

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
 In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard.

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Send us a text

Straddle up, romance aficionados and pop culture buffs—your journey through the Wild West of love just got a sizzling upgrade! We are excited to take you as we go West on our inaugural season of Unbound: "How the West Was Won." 

You're in for a treat, as we explore the Western as genre and delve into the iconic films and romance novels that have shaped our sense of the frontier. But hold onto your hats, because we're not just rehashing old legends—we're breaking new ground with Beverly Jenkins' legendary romances and shining a light on LGBTQ+ stories that boldly stake their claim on the great unknown.

 Get ready to ride through the twists and turns of love as we honor literary icon Beverly Jenkins and her remarkable novels "Topaz" and "Forbidden," which weave a tapestry of historical richness and romantic defiance. As we traverse the dusty trails of the West, we won't shy away from the vibrant LGBTQ+ narratives that redefine cowboy tales, tipping our hats to Rebecca Weatherspoon, Sarah Black, and the poignant "Brokeback Mountain." And the journey doesn't end there—our trailblazing adventure celebrates Latine characters and the cultural influence of vaqueros, as we spotlight the contributions of Mexican cinema and its icons. So grab a spot around the campfire and take a listen, because these pages of romance literature are ablaze with stories you won't want to miss. 

And hey, we write books too!

 Nikki’s latest is Sex, Lies and Sensibility a retelling of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility that Jodi Picoult calls “The smartest Austen updates I’ve read in ages…”

 Adriana is in her Belle Epoque Paris era and her latest An Island Princess Starts a Scandal is a delicious sapphic romp set in the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris. 

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at:
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss

Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/