Advertise on podcast: First Encounter—A Historical Romance Podcast

I had such a great time chatting with Melissa this week about my first Meredith Duran, THE DUKE OF SHADOWS! In this book deep dive for September, we are talking about the bold choice to not only set this book in India, but also in the midst of the Sepoy Rebellion in 1857. We appreciated the way Duran condemns colonialism while still presenting the violence on both sides of the conflict, and the brilliant way she set up both of our characters to be able to deal with this traumatic event. And as always, we talk about what makes historical romance so great and why we love this genre so much! Follow Melissa on Instagram (@aduchessinside) Learn more about Meredith Duran and her books And support the podcast on Patreon (link below) to get my upcoming novella, STAY HERE FOREVER —out 10/2/2026 ——————————————————————————————————— First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

I had a fantastic time this week chatting with historical romance author Addy Du Lac about the books in her Troublemakers Trilogy. I absolutely loved these books—they are incredibly romantic with bold heroines and swoony heros and are a great blend of more modern approaches to representation in histrom along with an old school feel of dramatic plot points, and proper villains! We discuss the need for more inclusive representation within the genre and Addy’s particular focus on Interracial Romance, and why we need to support BIPOC and authors from minoritized communities with our actions, not just our words. Learn more about Addy and her fabulous romances on her website Join Addy as she talks with Authors of Color in the Tea Salon Learn more about Swoons Fest—the historical romance focused event of your dreams! First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

Today’s show brings together all of the authors participating in the A Match Made in Autumn collaborative series, being released in Fall 2026. A series of eight novellas by Indie historical romance authors, all the stories center characters finding themselves with a second chance at finding love, and all are set in Autumn! I’ve loved collaborating with these ladies and I can’t wait for all of you to read their stories! You can find more information about the series here (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H72JXDV1), and the first novella releases September 11, 2026! Learn more about the authors participating in the series and find their other novels: Sylvie Sinclair Bianca White Ally Hudson Andie James Misty Urban Kelsey Swanson Laura Linn Ava Bond First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

This month we are discussing DEVILISH, by a new to me author, Jo Beverley! I am joined in discussion of this book by my friend and fellow historical romance author, Sri Savita. Sri loves this book and I had heard her talk about it (and re-reading it) several times, so I asked her to come on the podcast and talk about it, and to lend us her expertise in psychology as we examine core themes in the story! This book is an incredible example of power and control in both society and relationships and takes a deep look at gender dynamics. Written in 2000, it’s also ahead of its time in regard to issues of consent (thought here is a pretty dramatic assault scene, so be warned!) Sri and I also discuss her own work, centering Indian characters within the peerage in Regency England, and an upcoming Anthology she is participating in—HOLIDAYS AT NORTHFIELD HALL! Learn more about Jo Beverley and the Malloren books here Find out more about Sri and her novella, THE DEED WITH THE DUKE here Learn more about HOLIDAYS AT NORTHFIELD HALL here Listen to my episode with Katherine Grant and learn more about Northfield Hall here First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

I was so grateful that Nichole Van was willing to sit down with me again for this episode after our bonus episode last week where we discussed AI in publishing. Nichole is one of my favorite historical romance authors. I think she writes some of the most romantic, swoon-worthy, intimate stories with all the yearning you could ever want, and she manages to get all that deeply sexy emotion across while keeping the door closed. We discuss several of her books, including her brand new release, A LASS BELOVED, the second book in the Earls of Cairnfell series. We also look at what makes for an enjoyable read at any spice level based on intimate scenes that feel true to the characters, and acknowledging real adult thoughts and emotions around sex even in closed door romances. Other topics we hit on include writing older characters, and why the social restraints within a historical setting can lead to some really great stories! You can find out more about Nichole and her books on her website, and you can follow her on Instagram A LASS BELOVED is now available to purchase or read in Kindle Unlimited First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

After I announced that I’d invited fellow historical romance author Nichole Van onto the podcast, I had a listener reach out to me asking if hosting Nichole came into conflict with my no Gen AI stance as they believed she had used Gen AI images in promoting her books previously. So, I reached out to Nichole and said, “hey—my bad for not looking into this. I’m leaving it up to you if you still want to do the episode or not, but just be prepared for some comments or questions about AI.” And Nichole responded that she had stopped using AI and would love to chat about it. As we prepared, we realized we had so much to say about AI that we decided to make this discussion an entirely separate bonus episode. We talk about A LOT related to AI in this episode and it was fascinating to hear Nichole’s thoughts as someone who’s had not just her writing scrapped by AI, but also her images as a photographer, shaping her understanding and relationship to it. There’s how we define AI tools vs. Gen AI, a lot about all the gray areas in-between that are hard to navigate, and really that we are both against Gen AI, but there are no easy answers. Especially as some of the historical romance space around us has begun to embrace AI. And we wrap up with the thought that at the end of the day, we all just need to think through where we stand and be clear about it ,while lending one another some grace as we all figure this out in a rapidly changing system. All my thanks to Nichole for a truly great conversation, and I hope you’ll all tune in next week as well to hear about her amazing books! First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

This week was an important episode as I sat down with two lovely guests, Krista and Eleanor to discuss none other than one of the greats in historical romance, Ms. Beverly Jenkins herself! I’m absolutely ashamed to admit this is only the second Jenkins of read, but I loved it and it certainly won’t be the last! While we do talk about the book we read for the episode, Night Hawk with its famous cover, we honestly spent most of the time talking about the importance of using romance stories to share the untold stories of Black people in America as the history books have tried to erase their history, both the horrific and the exemplary. The impact of Jenkins is explored along with a discussion of her most famous work, Indigo which is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year. Below are links to more information on Beverly Jenkins, Including the recorded discussion Krist organized with Ms. Bev that we refer to in this episode, as well as where you can find more on Krista and Eleanor. Beverly Jenkins website Indigo, Night Hawk Beverly Jenkins Discussion with Black BookTok Fated Mates Historical Trailblazers Episode You can find Krista on all social media platforms, Including Instagram and TikTok at @actingbrandnew_writing . There she discusses her experiences with writing historical romances herself, and her love of Beverly Jenkins Eleanor can be found reflecting on historical romance through her Instagram @eleanorreadseverything, and you can look into her editing service on her website First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website Instagram Follow Andie James: Website Instagram Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

*My apologies to my fantastic guest this week, Alison, and listeners—somehow the last six minutes of our conversation was lost (Alison’s feed kicked out). Our conversation was basically done by then; we were discussing future projects from Alison and where to find her books. This week for the July Indie Author chat I talk with the wonderful Alison McKenzie about her upcoming release, THE TAILOR’S TREASURE. This is the second book in her Lovers of Linden series, and will be released August 12, 2026. We had a great time discussing writing in a different time period from the current norm in historical romance (Medieval), writing about everyday people vs. the Aristocracy and looking at the constraints imposed by positions within society, attitudes towards sexuality while writing a sapphic romance, and the impacts of motherhood. Alison also teaches us all about mindset and cultural understanding in the Middle Ages. You can learn more about Alison and her books, including where they can be purchased on her website, and you can follow Alison on Instagram First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

Join us this week as I discuss a HistRom classic with our guest, Jen Prokop of Fated Mates fame, The Bride, by Julie Garwood! Jen and I talk about how tense and POV has shifted over the years, how the pacing of love scenes has shifted as well as whether the focus is on the falling in love or the steam, the comfort of a great Scottish Highland romance, and Garwood’s skill at writing humor, allowing her to lean into archetypes. Listen to the Fated Mates episode all about The Bride here And visit Jen’s website to learn more about her superior editing services First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

This week’s episode features hybrid historical romance author, Harper St. George! Harper just released the final book in her Doves of New York series (which I LOVED!), The Dove and the Rogue, and we talk all things Gilded Age, Western romances, and the state of publishing in historical romance (what’s next?) You can find information on Harper and all of her books on her website And the Kickstarter for Besotted Books is now Live! Please consider backing this project so the genre we love can continue to thrive! First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

I had an amazing time talking Sherry Thomas with my guest, Seth, this week as we broke down what makes Private Arrangements such a standout in the Historical Romance genre. Listen in as we discuss his own first encounter with HistRom (and how Sherry set him up to love the genre!), emotional stakes, insights gained through a dual timeline, and how Sherry Thomas is like Taylor Swift! You can find more from Seth, including his thoughts on romance books and encounters with authors we love, on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads where he is @dramakingbooks And check out when Seth met Sherry Thomas at the Libby Awards and she signed his copy of Private Arrangements! https://www.instagram.com/p/DVuHtpYjhvt/?img_index=5 Read Private Arrangements yourself, and check out what we’re trying to do with Besotted Books ! First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

Guess what? I'm trying to start a publishing company for historical romance—Besotted Books! I’m so grateful to my friend and fellow historical romance author, Misty Urban, for agreeing to chat with me about Besotted Books today! You can learn more about Misty and her series, The Ladies Least Likely, here To read more about Besotted Books, please visit the website And follow us on Instagram @besotted.books We’ll have a link to the Kickstarter and the media kit SOON! ————————————————————————— First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

I had such an amazing time this week discussing what historical romance can be and the fun of learning about history, queer joy, and gender f*****y! Jane’s latest release is Mr. Milner Gets Divorced, and you can find out more about it, as well as Jane’s other books and where to find/purchase them on her website AND if you sign up for her newsletter, you can get the companion story to Mr. Milner, Mrs. Milner Gets a Kitchen, for FREE! (and Marion Milner is a delight, y’all!) Much of Jane’s inspiration for Mr. Milner and Stephen and his crew came from reading this Memoir: The Evening Crowd at Kirmser’s And you can catch Jane’s lecture with Romancelandia University for their Spring 2026 session here. They discuss JOY in HR and revolutionary happy endings! _________________________________ Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

Today is a fun bonus episode where I chat with Olivia (@nottheolivia on Instagram) about some of her thoughts on Historical Romance. I follow her on Instagram and think she is able to articulate what makes Historical Romance a unique genre within Romance beautifully, so I was excited to get some of her takes on where historical romance is headed (and if it should be). You can follow Olivia on Instagram, and the post I referenced frequently, The Historical Romance Starter Kit, can be found here To learn more about my new publishing venture, Besotted Books, please visit the website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/besotted-books, or follow us on Instagram First Encounter is a podcast exploring both the foundations, and the future, of Historical Romance. Hosted by Andie James, Historical Romance enthusiast and author. Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor   Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan

I really enjoyed this month’s book—An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole. It’s American Civil War setting makes it stand out, and it unfortunately felt sadly too relevant to current attitudes today as we see our heroine, Elle, a Union spy who is posing as a slave in the home of a Southern Senator, confronting all the ugliest sides of discrimination and being othered and disregarded. BUT, while it was a difficult read (Alyssa Cole does not shy away from the harsh realities she’s writing), it was a also a gorgeous romance and had STAKES! I had a great time with fellow histrom writer, Angelique Prince, discussing the book as well as the need to write more diversely and celebrate Black women authors in Historical Romance. You can find out more about Angelique and her own writing projects on her website, angeliqueprince.com and sign up for her newsletter there to get more information on the project she just did, Bev’s Baddies, reading chronologically through all the works of Beverly Jenkins. Angelique is also active on TikTok and Instagram Other Authors of color mentioned in the podcast that you should absolutely be reading: Beverly Jenkins Addy DuLac Erica Ridley Vanessa Riley Adriana Herrera Liana De la Rosa ___________________________________ Support First Encounter: Patreon Follow First Encounter: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/firstencounterpod Instagram: @first_encounter_hr_pod TikTok: @first_encounter_hr_pod Follow Andie James: Website: https://www.andiejamesauthor.com/ Instagram: @andiejamesauthor Logo designed by Books and Moods Theme Music by TheJayMan