Unfiltered Romance Nights

In this episode of Unfiltered Romance Nights, hosts Kolleen and Marjorie sit down with acclaimed audiobook narrator

Samantha 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 Hazelwood

duet, 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 Episode

• Kicking off Season Three of Unfiltered Romance Nights
• 2026 reading goals and anticipated releases
• Managing TBR lists and ARC team pressure
• Thoughts on controversial authors and difficult themes
• Most anticipated reads for the year
• What’s changing in Season Three
• Upcoming author interviews
• How 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/@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

We had the pleasure of interviewing Lucy Rivers and chatted all thing audiobooks.

Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights
01:08 Journey into Audiobook Narration
04:30 First Recording Experience
06:11 Life Beyond the Booth
09:23 Comfort Reads and Audiobooks
10:52 Preparation Rituals for Recording
13:37 Behind the Scenes of Audiobook Narration
15:18 Editing and Corrections in Audiobooks
18:19 Collaboration with Authors
21:22 Adapting Voices for Different Genres
25:01 Full Cast Audiobooks
25:35 Navigating Character Distinctions
27:53 The Dark Side of Romance
28:59 Authenticity in Spicy Scenes
30:04 Bloopers and Accidental Humor
32:22 Challenging Narrations and Character Depth
34:07 Auditioning in the Audiobook World
35:36 The Time Investment in Audiobook Production
38:01 The Complexity of Language in Narration
40:05 Voice Management and Energy During Recording
41:26 Memorable Bloopers and Outtakes
44:31 The Realities of Romance and Preparation
45:44 Connecting with Authors and Events
48:08 The Joy of Smaller Book Events
49:28 Dream Narration Projects
51:06 Upcoming Releases and Exciting Projects
53:01 Narration Styles and Preferences
55:30 The Art of Narration and Personal Style

❗️DISCLAIMER: This episode was pre-recorded❗️ 

Follow Lucy Rivers on social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akalucyrivers
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@akalucyrivers

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 

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.

Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back to Unfiltered Romance Nights
02:48 The Writing Process: Music and Inspiration
05:26 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life
08:16 Exploring New Genres and Tropes
10:57 Navigating Male-Male Relationships in Romance
13:28 The Complexity of Writing Diverse Characters
16:34 The Balance Between Personal and Marketable Writing
19:12 Advice for Aspiring Writers
21:45 The Challenges of Writing MM Romance
24:26 Reader Reactions and Expectations
27:17 The Importance of Representation in Romance
30:12 The Impact of Reader Feedback
32:40 The Hardest Scenes to Write
35:41 The Future of Writing and Public Perception
44:12 Progressive Perspectives on Identity and Acceptance
46:57 Navigating Identity in Different Cultures
49:08 The Struggles of Addiction and Identity
51:15 Alcoholism: A Cultural Lens
54:33 Teasing Out Future Storylines
57:04 Character Development and Emotional Depth
01:02:45 Exploring Character Relationships
01:12:12 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/jaggercoleauthor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorjaggercole

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, 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!

Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights
01:06 From Law to Literature: CR Jane's Journey
03:32 Finding Freedom in Writing
05:28 The Creative Process: Writing Style and Inspiration
11:51 Incorporating Personal Life into Fiction
13:24 Lessons Learned in Publishing
17:06 Advice for Aspiring Authors
22:27 Creating 'Marry Me': Inspiration and Themes
26:05 Character Development and Reader Expectations
28:49 Illustrated Covers and Book Aesthetics
29:56 Pre-Wedding Activities and Southern Culture
30:45 Character Evolution and Writing Process
32:30 Challenges in Writing Emotional Scenes
34:14 Character Interactions and Personal Connections
35:09 Adapting Books into Movies
37:01 Building a Literary Universe
38:52 Writing Dynamics: Why Choose vs. MF
40:46 Memorable Scenes and Author Experiences
48:05 Awakening to Recognition
48:28 Book Signings and Reader Interactions
49:47 Surreal Moments of Fame
51:03 Emotional Connections at Signings
52:28 Upcoming Events and Signings
54:15 Future Book Releases and Genres
55:54 Holiday Book Launch and Marketing Ideas
57:46 Cultural Perspectives on Holiday Celebrations
58:49 First Full-Length Holiday Book
01:01:07 Expanding the Pucking Wrong Series
01:03:58 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/@nikkitabell

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

 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! 

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Unfiltered Romance Nights
01:03 Nyla Kay's Journey to Writing
03:47 The Impact of TikTok on Romance Novels
06:49 Exploring Dark MM Romance
09:14 Writing Process and Inspirations
11:15 Unique Sources of Inspiration
16:05 Future Writing Aspirations and Genres
20:56 Lessons Learned in Publishing
27:25 Navigating Social Media as an Author
28:22 Living Through Characters: A Day in Their Lives
33:05 Crafting Tension: Enemies to Lovers and Step-Siblings
49:23 Unexpected Character Growth: Surprises in Writing
51:27 Humorous Moments and Character Dynamics
53:01 Emotional Challenges in Writing
56:17 Character Growth and Redemption
58:28 The Importance of Therapy and Healing
01:00:03 Favorite Characters and Their Appeal
01:03:30 Dream Casting for Adaptations
01:06:52 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking
01:11:23 Cultural Perspectives on Filmmaking
01:12:48 Emotional Depth in Storytelling
01:15:23 The Balance of Spicy and Emotional Scenes
01:17:04 Character Dynamics and Relationships
01:18:27 The Future of LGBTQ+ Representation in Film
01:24:09 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.

Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights
01:28 The Journey to Becoming an Author
07:09 Finding Balance: Writing and Personal Life
09:10 The First Story: A Leap into Publishing
14:19 Writing Process: Music and Inspiration
17:42 Exploring Tropes: Favorites and Future Aspirations
22:22 Lessons Learned in Publishing
28:10 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Marketing
32:10 Release Day Reflections
34:09 Advice for New Writers
37:20 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Publishing
40:32 Creating Authentic Characters
41:42 The Inspiration Behind 'The Homemaker'
45:29 Character Dynamics: Alice and Murphy
51:18 Plot Twists and Reader Reactions
56:04 The Messiness of Love
56:46 Future Stories and Character Returns
57:31 Casting Dreams for 'The Homemaker'
01:00:53 The Complexity of Romance
01:05:00 Character Dynamics and Relationships
01:12:30 Exploring Themes of Love and Judgment
01:18:01 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