Unfiltered Romance Nights

Welcome to Unfiltered Romance Nights - a podcast for readers who prefer spicy stories and twisted tropes.

We're your hosts, Marjorie and Kolleen, two moms obsessed with reading and discussing dark romance. We first crossed paths as members of our favorite writers' ARC & Street Teams - and have been book besties ever since.

Every Wednesday, we interview authors and share our genre recs & reviews. So if you're into taboo tales and unhinged chats, come spend the night with us.

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Unfiltered Romance Nights

Penelope Ward Interview

May 14, 2025 • Kolleen and Marjorie • Season 2 • Episode 19

Buckle up for a juicy, laugh-filled ride through the world of steamy romance with none other than Penelope Ward! In this birthday special episode of Unfiltered Romance Nights, Kolleen and Marjorie dive into Penelope’s unexpected journey from TV anchor to bestselling romance author. We’re talking forbidden love, spicy scenes, illustrated covers, and even candles that smell like her leading men (yes, seriously). Whether you're a longtime fan or just romance-curious, this episode serves up laughs, behind-the-scenes tea, and heartfelt moments that’ll make you one-click her books faster than you can say “Stepbrother Dearest.”

Chapters:
00:00:00 - Intro birthday special with Penelope Ward

00:02:14 - How Fifty Shades kicked off indie romance's golden age

00:04:24 - Writing as a job that never feels like work

00:08:16 - Penelope’s writing routine and sprint method

00:13:23 - Stopped at two books for the Rockstar series

00:21:41 - Duet audiobook versions and how they hit differently

00:24:35 - Team Physical Book vs Team eBook debate

00:28:47 - Best starter books for new Penelope Ward readers

00:31:41 - Her favorite couple? Elec & Greta forever

00:35:12 - Behind-the-scenes of how co-writing really works

00:37:44 - Realities of publishing schedules and release pacing

00:44:50 - Tropes Penelope won’t write—

00:46:48 - Special editions and upcoming book boxes

00:48:21 - Book signings, Boston roots, and fangirl energy

00:51:33 - Honest truth about the emotional cost of book signings

Learn more about Penelope Ward:

Website: penelopewardauthor.com

Check out her store for signed paperbacks, hardcovers, and special editions.

Instagram: @penelopewardauthor
Facebook Page: Penelope Ward: Author
Facebook Group: Penelope’s Peeps
X (formerly Twitter): @PenelopeAuthor

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DISCLAIMER/WARNING: Our episodes will contain spoilers and potential triggers.

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Kolleen
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Marjorie
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