Exploring Cozy Romantic Suspense with Author Penelope Black
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In our latest podcast episode, we enjoyed chatting with Penelope Black, an author known for her unique blend of cozy romantic suspense. We dived into her writing journey, discussed her latest book, The Broken Pact, and got some fantastic book recommendations for romance lovers. If you’re a fan of small-town romance with a twist, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Meet Penelope Black
Penelope Black started her career in journalism and editing before taking the leap into writing romance novels. In 2020, she transitioned from editing to writing, debuting her first book, and hasn’t looked back since. Now, she lives in the Midwest with her husband, kids, and mini Australian Labradoodle, her loyal companion during her writing sessions.
Inside The Broken Pact
The Broken Pact is Penelope’s latest release and the first book in the Avalon Falls series. This novel is a small-town fake dating romance that comes with a suspenseful edge, making it more than just your typical Hallmark story. Penelope describes it as “cozy romantic suspense,” blending intimate small-town details with a touch of suspense and angst. The story features an engaging cast of characters, including a trio of older gals who add a dash of charm to the mix.
The Avalon Falls series is planned to feature four books, each focusing on a different sibling. While each book can be enjoyed as a standalone, they are interconnected through a shared world, offering readers a richer experience as they delve into each sibling’s story.
Exploring Penelope’s Backlist
If you’ve read and loved The Broken Pact, Penelope recommends starting with her Rosewood series. This spinoff offers a darker, grittier take on romance with an MC (Motorcycle Club) theme. Though it delves into darker themes, it retains Penelope’s signature style of “Mafia Light,” making it an accessible and thrilling read for those who enjoy a bit of edge in their romance.
The Rosewood trilogy begins with Moonlit Temptation, where you meet characters connected to The Broken Pact. It offers a deeper dive into Penelope’s interconnected world, filled with suspense, angst, and romance.
Penelope’s Book Recommendations
Penelope is an avid reader herself, and she shared some of her recent favorite reads that you might want to add to your list:
- Quicksilver by Callie Hart: An immersive romantasy that Penelope highly recommends for those who enjoy fantasy with a touch of romance.
- Wild Card by Staci Hart: A hilarious, steamy, and angsty read that includes a little sports romance set in a small town.
- Weak Side by SJ Sylvis: A hockey, new adult, fake dating romance that’s perfect if you crave more after reading The Broken Pact.
Penelope mentioned her love for romantasy and how different seasons can influence her reading choices. For her, fall is the perfect time to dive into cozier reads that still have an edge.
Conclusion
Our conversation with Penelope Black was a delightful journey into the world of cozy yet edgy romance. From her writing journey to her recommendations for romance lovers, there’s something for every reader in this episode. Listen to the full podcast episode for an in-depth conversation with Penelope!