This is the introduction to our August special "Spicy Summer", where we take an in-depth look at the romance genre, the reputation it has garnered across media, and to what extent that repuation is deserved or just media noise.

This week, we're sitting down with Michelle Chiang to discuss how she went from being an avowed hater of the genre to now an author writing her own romance novel! We also chat about the romance novel that's especially captivated her recently, Navessa Allen's "Lights Out."

This episode also references the following shows & episodes:

1. Michelle Chiang on Writing (Geek Out)

2. Amanda Stephens on Regency Romance (Geek Out)

3. Queen Charlotte "Crown Jewels": The most epic love conquers all story (Tales of Our Time)