Kissing Books Critique

Getting Wet for the Wrong Reasons (A Positioning Problem)

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:07:00 GMT

Vicki's brought us a deliciously wet romance meet-cute that's got positioning issues—and we're not talking about the steamy kind. Between crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and one mysterious Frenchman who's definitely giving Aquaman vibes, we're drowning in "eyes running over" problems and romance characters who can't figure out if they're horizontal or vertical.

Expect passionate manuscript critique debates about shaky breaths that come out "harder than expected" (phrasing, Vicki!), why you can't "remember" someone's voice from thirty seconds ago, and the eternal romance writing question: when throat gravel makes your pulse dance, do you really need to tell us it's "making" it happen?

Come for the French rescue fantasy, stay for three indie romance authors collectively losing it over vague writing. Warning: contains therapeutic wine, deadline panic, and multiple instances of "that's not specific enough, darling."

Kissing Books Critique: Where indie romance authors get real-time manuscript feedback with humor, honesty, and zero sugar-coating.

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Rough Hands and Slippery Decks

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 15:25:00 GMT

Romance writing craft meets underwater chaos in this manuscript critique session for indie authors and aspiring romance writers. Vicki's chapter delivers a delicious meet-cute scene, but we're diving deep into writing craft fundamentals: scene logistics, character movement, dialogue formatting, and point of view techniques that every romance author needs to master.

Learn essential writing skills as we tackle common manuscript problems: personified descriptions that don't work, repetitive word choices (goodbye "shoved" and "tightened eyes"), setting clarity issues, and dialogue mechanics. Perfect for new writers struggling with line editing, experienced authors facing developmental editing challenges, and anyone working on romance novel manuscripts or contemporary fiction.

Our live critique covers romance genre conventions, reader expectations, indie publishing standards, and traditional publishing craft requirements. From underwater scene choreography to tattoo descriptions that build sexual tension, we're breaking down the technical writing elements that separate amateur manuscripts from professional romance novels.

Essential topics for writers: POV consistency, character description techniques, environmental storytelling, romance trope execution, editing process management, and overcoming writer's block. Plus practical advice on manuscript submission processes, beta reader feedback, and meeting publishing deadlines while maintaining craft quality.

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Hockey Romance Breakthroughs

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:05:00 GMT

We're deep in hockey romance territory this week as the group tackles a submission featuring contract clauses, curse words in French Canadian, and one very good dog named Clyde who's clearly the real star of this critique session.

From the mysterious "Clause 53B" (which we're definitely stealing for our own books) to the eternal struggle of making characters move through scenes without sounding like robots, this episode has everything: pen-twirling coaches, emotional family baggage, and the age-old question of when dialogue tags help versus when they just get in the way.

Expect passionate debates about the phrase "coach's assumption," why "I cut through the air with one hand, sharp" needs more context (and definitely shouldn't involve jerking motions), and the fine art of the rule of three when your character is having an emotional breakdown. Plus: the ongoing battle against overused words, why Etienne needs to put down that pen for dramatic effect, and how Clyde the dog is basically providing masterclass-level scene direction just by existing.

Come for the hockey drama, stay for the group's collective obsession with making every sentence earn its place on the page. Fair warning: contains multiple references to masturbation concerns, French Canadian authenticity checks, and at least one moment where we all get distracted by a very good boy who might deserve a cookie.

Kissing Books Critique is the podcast where indie romance authors get real-time manuscript feedback from fellow writers who know the genre inside and out. Whether you're struggling with enemies-to-lovers dynamics, trying to nail authentic dialogue, or wondering why your editor keeps flagging the same issues, our live critique sessions break down romance writing craft with humor, honesty, and zero sugar-coating. Perfect for new romance writers, indie authors seeking community, and anyone who wants to improve their writing while laughing at the beautiful disasters we all create on the page. Join our group of romance authors as we lovingly dissect submissions, celebrate breakthrough moments, and prove that the best writing advice comes from writers who've been exactly where you are now.

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Hampus Gets Called to the Principal's Office

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:25:00 GMT

This week, the team dives into Jenna's hockey romance featuring Hampus, a troubled player facing ultimatums from team management. Listen as three romance authors dissect a tense office scene, debate whether dogs can "chuff" (spoiler: they can), and provide 742 comments on character development, setting details, and the fine art of writing close POV. Plus: Why yellow highlighting means love, the proper way to describe pen-flipping, and a heated discussion about furniture descriptions that gets surprisingly deep.

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Resting Brood Face Syndrome

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:25:00 GMT

We're deep in Resting Brood Face territory this week as Vicki's Catching Trouble continues with Maxime's chapter two, where our grumpy hero discovers that scowling at customers might not be the best business strategy. From "wild, untamed Poseidon king" energy (our first yellow highlight!) to the eternal struggle of whether your protagonist wants to "please them or poison them," we're unpacking what happens when your brooding MMC needs an attitude adjustment.

Expect fierce opinions on missing paragraph breaks that leave us guessing who's speaking, the fine art of making your hero's stakes crystal clear without getting vague and foreshadowy, and why "I'm not changing meat suppliers" might be the funniest defensive response we've heard all year.

There's also a heated sidebar on French beach club terminology (spoiler: it's not what you think), spatial confusion that had us wondering if characters were teleporting across tables, and the ongoing mystery of when exactly coffee became an evening beverage.

Come for the business advice critique, stay for the collective realization that sometimes your chapter just needs more work—and that's perfectly okay because we're all here to help you polish that diamond.

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Stop Harassing My Wife (and Other Logistics Fails)

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 14:40:13 GMT

We’re deep in scene logistics, missing windows, and rogue dental appointments this week as Heather's submission hits the group chat. From personified smiles to hallway entrances that don’t quite make sense, we’re unpacking character movement, setting gaps, and what it really means to widen your stance (and direct it at a human, not a desk).

Expect fierce opinions on all-caps dialogue, the eternal “shoved” dilemma, and why your editor should absolutely be flagging things that would never fly in a trad pub line edit. There’s also a heated sidebar on proper abbreviation punctuation, a cameo by Joel’s shorts (we missed them), and the collective unraveling that happens when someone’s on mute too long.

Is it personification or poetic license? Do we hate this line or love it enough to keep it? And how many times can one character say “damn” before it becomes a drinking game?

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Mistakes Were Made. Horses Were Spotted.

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:25:00 GMT

In this episode of Kissing Books Critique, we dive headfirst into Vicki’s brand-new first chapter, an angsty, small-town cowboy romance inspired by a classic '90s country hit. From navigating car logistics (who’s driving again?) to unpacking the emotional weight of fictional towns and old flames, we’re tackling it all with our usual blend of craft, chaos, and cackling. We discuss grounding your reader, writing character-specific setting, and how your past (and your ex) might just inspire your bestseller.

Come for the critique, stay for the snort-laughs and made-up men who hit differently.

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Critique and Ice Cream Cliffs: Chloe’s Chapter Takes the Stage

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:25:00 GMT

We’re back in action, and this time it’s Vicki’s turn in the hot seat! Join us as we dive into the second half of Chapter One from the final book in her globe-trotting, language-blending trilogy. This one stars Chloe. Former sidekick, current leading lady, and the kind of character we all want to grab drinks with. We dig into voice, visual clarity, and the magic of reading your work aloud (even if it makes you cringe a little). Expect sprinkles of craft talk, ice cream metaphors, and our usual blend of honest critique and uncontrollable giggles.

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French Kisses, Freckles, and First Chapters

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:25:00 GMT

This week on Kissing Books Critique, it's Vicki's turn in the hot seat as we dive into the sparkling first chapter of her upcoming (and final!) book in the French Kisses trilogy. We talk freckle problems, seaside settings, and what exactly comes to mind when someone says "French kiss" (spoiler: it’s not subtle). As always, we sandwich the critique between some well-earned praise, lovingly dissect Chloe’s sun-drenched arrival in a charming French village, and offer feedback on tone, setting, and reader expectations. Join us for beachy vibes, writing laughs, and a whole lot of tongue-in-cheek commentary - pun absolutely intended.

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That Scene Where He Takes His Shirt Off (Sorta)

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:05:00 GMT

This week on Kissing Books Critique, the spotlight turns to Jenna’s upcoming romance Unleashed—and things heat up fast (literally). Heather and Vicki dive into a rain-soaked, tension-filled chapter where sparks fly and shirts come off. We critique everything from setting clarity and physical grounding to repeated metaphors and emotionally immersive POV. Along the way, we unpack how to handle romantic tension, first-draft indulgences, and the fine line between repetition and resonance. Plus, we debate whether five mentions of citrus spice are too many (spoiler: they are). Come for the critique, stay for the laughter, and leave with tools to level up your writing.

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Starting Off Wobbly: Why First Chapters Are So Hard

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:05:00 GMT

We’re back—and just a little too excited about it. In this giddy return to the pod, Jenna reads the first chapter of Heather's current WIP, featuring Mason and Ronnie, two characters with too much communication and a whole lot of tension. Vicky brings the critique, and together we dive into why first chapters are so dang hard to get right. Spoiler: nobody’s first draft is sacred. Join us as we navigate awkward openings, info-dump avoidance, and the very real struggle of finding your voice on page one.

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Enemies, Tension, and a Slow Burn Done Right

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:05:00 GMT

In this episode of Kissing Books Critique, we dive into the art of the slow burn—how to build tension, keep characters at odds, and make every stolen glance count. We tackle passive voice, repetition, and the sneaky ways setting (or lack of it) can impact a scene. Plus, a broody hero fights his feelings, a teasing heroine turns up the heat, and Jenna finally hits her storytelling groove. But can we resist the urge to overanalyze every single word? Tune in to find out!

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Revisions, Rainstorms, and One Charismatic Critiquer

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:05:00 GMT

Deadlines are closing in, but that doesn’t stop us from diving deep into revisions, refining character depth, and debating the logistics of stormy bar scenes. In this episode of Kissing Books Critique, we analyze pacing, emotional resonance, and the fine line between evocative and overwrought prose—while also getting delightfully derailed by demanding cats, unexpected movie comparisons, and the eternal struggle of describing lace. Plus, Vicki’s charisma takes center stage, whether she’s ready or not.

Join the chaos, sharpen your craft, and subscribe now! Follow us on Facebook at Kissing Books Critique!

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Love Scenes SOS

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:05:00 GMT

Too many hands, too many mouths, and one big stylistic leap—welcome to the final episode of our Valentine's love scene critique special! This week, we’re unraveling the mysteries of rogue body parts, refining intimacy on the page, and celebrating Heather’s bold new writing style. Can we keep things steamy and sensical? Tune in to find out!

Subscribe now so you never miss an episode, and follow us on Facebook at Kissing Books Critique!

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The Butterflies and the bees and the... logistics

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:05:00 GMT

Love scenes: the good, the bad, and the logistically impossible. In this episode of Kissing Books Critique, we’re diving deeper into what makes a love scene work—breaking down sensuality, pacing, and those little details that can make or break the moment. From crafting multi-sensory experiences to avoiding accidental acrobatics, we’re here to make your steamy scenes sizzle.

Subscribe now so you never miss an episode, and follow us on Facebook at Kissing Books Critique!

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The Smutty Bits

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:05:00 GMT

We’re back, just in time for Valentine’s Day—and things are heating up! Love them, hate them, or struggle to write them, love scenes are the heart (and heat) of romance, and for the next three episodes, we’re pulling back the covers to critique what makes them sizzle—or fizzle.

As Pink would say, "Got me lit like a candlestick"—that’s the goal! Let’s turn up the heat and make these scenes unforgettable.

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Avoid White Room Syndrome

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:13:28 GMT

Beats v. stage direction. Setting, setting, setting! Goals, motivation and emotions. Texts being an awesome narrative tool.

We made a couple of references to books this episode. The first was Dwight V. Swain's Techniques of the Selling Author. Mr. Swain discusses scene-sequel and motivation-reaction units. Excellent book despite being pretty dang old. The other book was Lisa Hall-Wilson's Method Acting For Writers: Learn Deep Point Of View Using Emotional Layers, which discusses, remarkably enough, deep point of view. Links for both below.

Swain's Techniques for the Selling Author.

Method Acting For Writers: Learn Deep Point Of View Using Emotional Layers

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Details, Details, Details

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 11:42:34 GMT

Setting matters. Romance and smells. Logistics and towels! NOTED!

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Do You Have Enough Internal Dialogue?

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:30:36 GMT

Size doesn't matter, and neither does quiche. Parkling Spink anyone? Moving with the social times in our writing. Heather takes us to school on attention to detail. Vicki's still living in the nineties. Internal thoughts help drive a narrative.

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Valentine's Day Special, Part 3

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 12:25:15 GMT

The last of our naughty adventures in crafting a fun love scene. Join us for our tipsy foray as we help our characters get all the right moves.

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Valentine's Day Special, Part 2

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:25:28 GMT

Drinking Games and Sexcapades

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Valentine's Day Special, Part 1

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 12:25:58 GMT

It's all hands and panting - Potato lovers of the world unite - We love a man who comes undone

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Show Don't Tell or Showing vs Telling

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:22:05 GMT

Nailing the opening of a book is hard. We continue work on Heather's opening chapter of her new book. When real life invades our stories and Heather learns texting laws.

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Who's Your Target Audience?

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 11:00:51 GMT

Openings are hard. We all struggle to nail the right tone, present the characters the way we see them in our head, and do all the things. But openings are hard.

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Introducing Kissing Books Critique

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:00:10 GMT

In this episode, we each introduce ourselves. Share a little about where we are in out book-writing adventures and give you a small taste of what you can expect in the coming year.

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