Episode Details

TW: This episode contains in-depth discussion of emotional and physical abuse and toxic relationships. These topics may be distressing for some listeners. Please prioritize your well-being and listen with care.

In this episode, I’m joined by YA romance author Emily Charlotte to discuss her debut novel Heartcheck and the ongoing conversation around how love is portrayed in young adult romance.

We critically examine the enemies-to-lovers trope, where tension becomes toxicity, and why abuse should never be framed or excused as love in books or in real life.

Emily shares how she approaches writing emotionally intense relationships with responsibility, the impact stories can have on young readers, and what a healthier, more honest definition of love looks like in YA literature.

This episode challenges common romance narratives and invites listeners to rethink what we normalize, celebrate, and consume when it comes to love stories.