Blush - Good Wine, Naughty Books, Naughtier Conversations

In the first of our special Heathens and Heartbreakers Author Series, things get cozy, chaotic, and a little unfiltered as we sit down with romance author Madi Danielle. From health updates and creative burnout to writing spicy scenes that actually feel real, we’re diving headfirst into the messy overlap of life, love, and storytelling. We talk hockey crushes, dating app disasters, age gaps, family boundaries, and the fine art of navigating intimacy—on and off the page. Expect candid confessions, playful banter, and laugh-out-loud stories about exes, cuddling preferences, public escapades, audio narration realities, and why costumes sometimes make...

This week on Blush, host Kelly settles in for a cozy, candid, and delightfully unhinged chat with author Amy Oliveira—and yes, we absolutely go there. From Amy’s journey into the Omegaverse to the importance of writing stories that feel like a warm blanket with teeth, the conversation weaves through writing rituals, character obsession, cultural roots, and the very real chaos of balancing creativity with real life.

Expect deep dives into body image, mental health, relationships, and representation, sprinkled generously with humor, historical romance love, dark academia teasers, and some lightly inappropriate games that reveal more than...

Romance, kinks, coffee, and chaos? Yes, please. On this episode of Blush, hosts Kelly and Branden welcome the fabulous L. Clara to talk all things love, lust, and literary life.

We dive into Lauren’s journey from poetry to her steamy Unexpected romance series, the mess and magic of character development, and why mental health belongs on the page just as much as it does in real life. Expect advice for aspiring writers, talk of pumpkin-flavored creativity fuel, and a peek at what a movie adaptation might look like (cast your fantasy lineup now).

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In this episode of Blush, hosts Kelly and Branden sit down with author Coral Alejandra Moore to explore the seductive, emotional, and character-driven world of her Hers to Rule series. Coral opens up about her creative process, writing advice, and the way she lets her characters take control—especially in those intimate scenes. The conversation slips between laughter and vulnerability as the trio plays Never Have I Ever, sharing stories of flirting gone wrong, crushes that got complicated, and the occasional vindictive impulse. They dive into the gender dynamics of romance, feminism, and the fine line between fantasy and re...

Pour yourself a cocktail and buckle up—this week, the Blush hosts get delightfully unfiltered with dark romance author Riva Frye, whose novels If Love Could Kill and Twisted Chambers are redefining heat, heartbreak, and taboo. Together, they dive into the wild world of dark romance, unpacking the messy beauty of jealousy, intimacy, and kink while keeping the conversation as intoxicating as the summer drinks they sip on.

Riva opens up about her spontaneous writing process, the mood-setting power of Sleep Token, and how family influence shaped her journey from self-publishing to book signings packed with hungry re...

If part one pulled back the velvet curtain, part two takes you straight into the beating heart of Torture Garden. Paul Faust returns to the Blush Podcast to dig into the foundations of the kink community—consent, safety, and aftercare. From navigating boundaries and shutting down bad behavior to creating an atmosphere where newcomers feel both welcomed and empowered, Paul reveals what it really takes to run the world’s most notorious fetish event.

But it’s not all heavy—there are playful stories, wild anecdotes, and even a few games that lighten the mood. Because...

What really happens behind the velvet ropes at the world’s most infamous fetish party? In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Paul Faust—president of the Faustian Society—takes us deep inside the world of Torture Garden, where avant-garde performance meets unapologetic sexuality. From strict dress codes to the art of consent, Paul reveals what it takes to create a space that’s equal parts dangerous, decadent, and safe. We talk BDSM, cultural clashes around sex, why patriarchy still haunts female desire, and the relentless fight to stay authentic in a world that wants to water everything down. This is part...

This week on Blush Podcast, Kelly and Branden sit down with debut indie author Black Rose to peel back the curtain on the world of dark romance. From mafia entanglements to emotional depth, Black Rose shares how writing became her escape—and how a pen name became her armor. They explore the power of raw storytelling, the stigma around 18+ content, and why writing without fear is the ultimate act of rebellion. Expect bold truths, a few laughs, and a whole lot of heart in this candid convo about creativity, identity, and the dark side of desire.

Blushing Over Battle Scenes & Book Boyfriends with Fay Messina

Fantasy author Fay Messina joins us to dish on her debut novel Beguiled—an urban fantasy packed with enemies-to-lovers tension, a swoony love triangle, and just the right amount of spice. We chat about how Fay found her voice (and her plot outlines!) amidst motherhood, why action movies are her secret weapon for writing fight scenes, and which character she’d marry in a heartbeat. From blushing through steamy scenes to channeling chronic pain into powerful storytelling, this episode is a must-listen for fantasy lovers, romance readers, and anyo...

Moans, Mics & Unsexy Words: Dana Morris Gets Real About Romance Narration

What do spicy romance, sci-fi fantasy, and unsexy words have in common? Ava Monroe. In this episode, we sit down with the irresistibly talented Dana Morris (aka Ava Monroe) to talk about her bold leap from nursing to narrating the steamiest audiobooks out there. She spills the behind-the-scenes secrets—like building her own booth, voicing toe-curling scenes with total confidence, and the surprising emotional depth of romance. Plus, we dive into cringe-worthy words, laugh through a spicy game, and get her hot takes on wh...

Things get boozy and bold as Kelly and Branden mix up their favorite summer cocktails and dive headfirst into the deliciously dark world of romance with author LO Gold. From tortured characters and twisted plotlines to the raw truths behind writing trauma and hockey romance clichés, nothing’s off-limits.

They get real about the grind of writing audiobooks, the thrill of collaboration, and how perseverance fuels creativity—even when the story cuts deep. Throw in some wild anecdotes, a chaotic round of the Finger Up Challenge, and a few surprises, and you've got a summer episode that’...

Sizzling Secrets, Steamy Stories & a Game of 'Never Have I Ever' with Author Lexi Gray

Things get spicy in this episode of Blush as host Kelly sits down with dark romance queen Lexi Gray, known for her sizzling MC romance and BDSM-infused tales. From the serious (BDSM safety, power dynamics, and heavy-hitting themes like child trafficking) to the downright hilarious (birthday blunders, sexy word struggles, and Robert Pattinson fantasies), nothing is off limits.

Lexi opens up about how her real-life experiences inspire her writing, shares tips for aspiring authors, and gives a peek behind the...

In this installment of Naughty Narratives, Kelly chats with audiobook narrator and voice actor Cole Eubanks, who went from shy kid to mic master. They dive into the wild world of accents, voice demos, and why recording in a pillow fort might be a narrator’s rite of passage. Expect laughs, unexpected beverage choices, and a sexy-word challenge that gets way too real. From favorite projects to steamy blush questions, this convo is equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and NSFW in the best way. Bonus: practical advice for aspiring narrators—and how to make even the least sexy words sound sedu...

On this spicy episode of Blush Podcast, Kelly and Branden dive headfirst into Berlin Wick’s steamy debut novel, The Secrets We Hide—and trust us, it’s not just about secrets, it’s about desires in jars. Literal fantasy jars.

They unpack what happens when couples bottle up their wildest dreams (on purpose!), and how trust, communication, and a dash of vulnerability turn up the heat. Along the way, they get real about the awkward art of narrating intimate scenes in audiobooks (spoiler: it's harder than it sounds), and dish out behind-the-scenes secrets on casting voices for stea...

Join Kelly and Branden as they welcome special guest author Mika Rayne. The conversation explores Mika's writing journey, her recent works, and the themes of darkness and humor in literature. The conversation is filled with playful banter and insights into their personal and professional lives, showcasing their camaraderie and shared experiences. They explore the importance of representation in writing, the nuances of communication in sexual relationships, and the empowerment that comes from consent. In this lively and humorous conversation, playful discussions about kinks, sexual fantasies, and preferences in oral pleasure are all discussed - plus more! Also as a...

Drinks and Double Penetration! In this episode of the Blush Podcast, hosts Kelly and Branden dive into 'Pucking Around' by Dr. Emily Rath, a Why Choose hockey romance that explores complex relationships, cultural insights, and the dynamics of polyamory. The conversation is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and a deep appreciation for the characters and their development. The hosts discuss their favorite moments, the significance of Finnish culture in the narrative, and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. With playful banter and engaging discussions about drinks, the episode offers a fun and insightful look into the book and its...

Join Kelly for the next installment of Naughty Narratives! In this episode, Hel, an audiobook narrator, shares her journey from dark fantasy to romance and erotic audio. She discusses the importance of storytelling, the empowerment of female voices in literature, and the challenges of narration. The conversation also touches on the significance of sexuality in storytelling and the need for sex positivity. Hel offers insights into her recording techniques, upcoming projects, and advice for aspiring narrators, emphasizing the importance of research and confidence in the craft. The conversation highlights the role of imagination in sexuality and the significance of...

Join hosts Kelly and Penny as they welcome author Monica James and her partner, affectionately referred to as 'the unicorn.' The conversation dives into Monica's writing journey, her exploration of dark romance, and the characters in her latest book 'Bad For You.' They discuss the challenges of writing sex scenes, the evolution of her writing style, and the humor found in her unique sex moves. The episode is filled with laughter, insights, and a candid look at the world of romance writing. The conversation delves into the humorous yet disturbing aspects of relationships, particularly focusing on unconventional...

In this episode of Blush, hosts Kelly and Penny welcome author Kalista Neith and narrator Corvin King. They discuss the intricacies of writing and narrating the 'Invoking the Blood' series, touching on character development, inspirations, and the unique challenges of audio narration. They share personal anecdotes, advice for aspiring writers and narrators, and even engage in a fun game that showcases their chemistry and creativity. The group delves into the intricacies of character development, the emotional challenges faced during the writing process, and share personal anecdotes through fun Blush questions. They also discuss their upcoming events and the importance...

In the second special Naughty Narratives episode, of the Blush Podcast, host Kelly engages in a lively conversation with narrators Branden Davis-Butler and E.M. Wylde. They discuss their favorite drinks, the journey to becoming audiobook narrators, the dynamics of co-narration, and the challenges of live narration. The episode is filled with humor, anecdotes, and insights into the world of audiobook narration, making it a delightful listen for fans of romance books and storytelling. They also discuss upcoming projects, provide valuable advice for aspiring voice actors, and explore the nuances of accents and dialects in performance. The dialogue is...

In this episode of the Blush Podcast, hosts Kelly and Penny dive into the steamy world of romance novels, exploring personal preferences in relationships, types, and the allure of dark romance. As usual, the ladies also indulge in a sensory experience of wine tasting, reflecting on the flavors and sensations. In this engaging conversation, S.E. Zell, an author and narrator, discusses her book 'Ransom and Ruin' and the intricacies of writing fantasy. She shares insights into her creative process, the challenges of world-building, and the inspiration behind her characters. The dialogue also touches on the unique experience of...

In this episode, Kelly welcomes guest host Branden Davis-Butler! The conversation starts with the usual wine tasting segment - where they compare their selections to themes from literature, particularly focusing on witches and their symbolism. Kelly and Branden delve into the themes of empowerment and character development as they discuss the book 'The Coven' by Harper L. Woods. They explore the complexities of editing and writing challenges, the intricacies of world-building in dark academia, and the interplay of mythology and character arcs. The conversation also touches on the themes of redemption and growth, as well as the distinction between...

Join Kelly for the first installment of Naughty Narratives! She interviews audiobook narrator Natasha Verna, exploring her journey into voice acting, the fun of beverage banter, and the unique challenges of recording in a home environment. The conversation flows from light-hearted discussions about drinks to deeper insights into Natasha's creative process and experiences in the audiobook industry. Natasha shares insights into her journey as a narrator and her upcoming projects. And as always, some fun Blush questions make it into the mix!

In this episode of the Blush Podcast, hosts Kelly and Penny welcome author Brynne Weaver and discuss various themes surrounding her new book, Scythe & Sparrow. They explore the intricacies of wine tasting, the excitement of running an indie bookstore, and the anticipation of new book releases. The conversation flows into a lively interview with Brynne, where they delve into the themes of dark romance and the unique elements of her writing. In this engaging conversation, the author reflects on her journey to success, the dynamics of character development in her writing, and the healing power of storytelling. The ladies...

In this lively conversation, Kelly and Penny delve into various topics, including their experiences with wine tasting, humorous anecdotes, and a detailed discussion of the book 'Quicksilver' by Callie Hart. They explore character dynamics, plot points, and their personal reactions to the story, while also teasing upcoming guests and themes for future episodes.

This episode's show intro is brought to you by audiobook narrator Cole Eubanks - check out his work and give him a follow. Stay tuned all season to see who else we'll be featuring in our intros!

Kelly and Penny forgo the wine for some herbal treats and have a great time chatting about this first installment in the apocalyptic fantasy series by Laura Thalassa. Have some laughs with the girls as they discuss the book, philosophize, and figure out how to create world peace!

Today's show intro is brought to you by audiobook narrator Kat Renee - check out her work and give her a follow. Stay tuned all season to see who else we'll be featuring in our intros!

Kelly and Penny kick off season two discussing the first book in the Zodiac Academy series! Join in on their irreverent discussion about this ultra popular dark romantic fantasy series by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. The ladies also enjoy some decadent wines from their friend Warner at Vin 312 Winery in Chicago.

Also new this season: Show Intros from our audiobook narrator friends! This episode's intro is brought to you by Vin - check out her work and give her a follow. Stay tuned all season to see who else we'll be featuring in our intros!

Kelly and Penny finish off their Indie Author Summer with a flourish - discussing Break for Me - an action-packed dark romance thriller by Ember Nicole! The pair also try out two more summer cocktail faves suggested by listeners and get amped up for Season Two. Listen in and enjoy!

Kelly and Penny have a deliciously devilish good time with author CM Hutton and voice actor Kayden Lukakis discussing the super dark and steamy Corrupt Shadows, a gothic paranormal dark romance about a caged demon and a witch who becomes his obsession. Tune in for a hilarious episode you won't forget!

Kelly and Penny have a Blush Pool Party with author Tylor Paige and Freaky Book Bees podcast host Christen to discuss Tylor's novella Like Father Like Slaughter - a steamy apocalyptic horror romance! This episode has everything you've come to expect from the girls and more - get a beach bev ready and enjoy!

Kelly and Penny are celebrating the Butcher & Blackbird movie news with a special re-release of their Butcher & Blackbird episode, including an interview with Brynne Weaver and Alexa Harlowe! As an added summer bonus, the girls start the show with an interview with model/actress Barbie about her role in a short film with Sloane origin story vibes, and about getting into the mindset of what might make a serial killer. This episode is jam-packed - buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Kelly and Penny take you on a whirlwind tour through E.L. Emkey's The Devil's Hunt - a super cool dark romance along the lines of The Ritual and The Hunger Games. They also discuss some great wines from their pal Warner at Vin312 Winery in Chicago. This episode is a great one perfect for summer - tune in now!

Kelly and Penny have a great time with author Monica James discussing her fictionalized memoir Love Hard and many other topics - from making up new spicy time moves, to feet, to rusty trombones, and more. This interview is definitely not to be missed!

It's the Season One Finale, and Kelly and Penny couldn't have picked a better way to celebrate, chatting with fan favorites Crystal and Felicity about their spicy new paranormal romance Unleashing Chaos, which has just been released! And of course you know a Blush interview wouldn't be complete without hilarious discussions about inappropriate behavior, weird first crushes, and perhaps disrespect of a band instrument or two 😘 Tune in for all this and more - you don't want to miss it!

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all whi...

Kelly and Penny sit down with audiobook narrator Katie Thompson to chat all things audio - books, skinny dipping, naughty Tupperware, and more! Plus the girls try their hand at accents while wine tasting, and it is something to behold - get your headphones ready for this one! 💋🖤🍷🎧

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new sex tips or moves we've picked up from our reading. Please note that this podcast features themes of drinking, vi...

Join Kelly and Penny as they discuss this homerun of a rom com by Pippa Grant about a notoriously single baseball player and the pop star who steals his heart! Things get predictably ridiculous as the ladies' wine talk becomes even dirtier than usual, and enjoy a back-and-forth reading from Kelly and Ryan! Step up to the plate for this episode, it's one not to miss!

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new...

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new sex tips or moves we've picked up from our reading.

Kelly and Penny have a wonderful chat with author Robin Jeffrey about her action-packed werewolf romance, and Ryan even indulges us with a reading. No shiftiness about it, this episode is a howling good time!

Trigger Warning: Sections of the interview in this episode contain candid discussions of mental health (12:20-15:26) and sexual assault (15:34-16:18). If these are too triggering for you, please skip those sections of the episode.

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new sex tips or moves we've picked up from our reading.

Kelly and Penny have an engaging, powerful, and also humorous chat with Ryan Marie, author of The Pieces...

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new sex tips or moves we've picked up from our reading.

Kelly and Penny have a great time comparing their wines to Disney characters and gushing over this yummy installment in Katee Robert's Wicked Villains series about Isabelle and her men Gaeton and Beast. With so many 🌶🌶 scenes, you won't want to miss a second. Pull up a chair and be our guest!

Welcome to Blush, where we enjoy and rate your favorite wines and smutty books, all while getting tipsy and exploring and celebrating sexual empowerment, feminism, and probably some new sex tips or moves we've picked up from our reading.

In this episode, Kelly and Penny take you through a bloodlust filled Mafia retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth with Sav R. Miller's Promises and Pomegranates, and of course some scintillating wine talk. George Costanza even comes up in the convo, because why wouldn't he? Sit back and enjoy!