QBD Books is embracing the power of storytelling in a whole new way, launching Romance Club—a podcast dedicated to the charm, complexity, and craft of romance fiction.
Hosted by award-winning author and Flinders University Associate Professor Amy Matthews, Romance Club will go beyond the pages to explore what makes a love story linger long after the final chapter. With a career spanning internationally published novels like Someone Else’s Bucket List and Best, First and Last, Matthews knows a few things about weaving a tale that tugs at the heartstrings. And now, she’s inviting listeners to delve into the world of romance fiction with some of Australia’s most celebrated authors.
“Romance is one of the most widely read and beloved genres in the world, yet it hasn’t always received the recognition it deserves in Australia,” says Associate Professor Matthews. “I’m proud to be hosting QBD Books’ Romance Club podcast, creating a space to celebrate the incredible talent in romance writing and to connect with the readers who adore these stories.”
Romance as a genre has seen a meteoric rise, with QBD Books reporting a dramatic sales spike in 2022—proof that love stories are more popular than ever. From the enchanting realms of romantasy to the breezy charm of romantic comedies, the podcast will unpack the latest trends, emerging voices, and timeless favourites that keep readers coming back for more.
Set to launch on 7 March, with new episodes dropping fortnightly, Romance Club is shaping up to be an essential listen for both seasoned romance aficionados and those just discovering the genre. Expect deep dives into the writing process, behind-the-scenes insights, and candid conversations with the people who bring these love stories to life.
Episodes will be available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts—just in time to rekindle your love for a great story.