Penned Promise: A Romance Book Podcast

Falling Back in Love with Reading: Reclaiming Joy, One Chapter at a Time

“How romance novels helped me rediscover myself.” In this heartfelt first episode of Penned Promise, Erica shares her personal journey of losing—and reclaiming—her love of reading. From childhood memories with Nancy Drew and Anne of Green Gables to the quiet drift away from books in the chaos of adulthood, this episode explores what happens when women stop prioritizing joy... and how turning the pages again can lead to turning the page on your own story. You’ll hear how motherhood, marriage, and career pressures slowly pulled Erica away from the things that once made her feel most like herself—and how romance books became her way back. Plus: gentle tips for getting back into reading (without guilt), three romance reads perfect for re-entry readers, and a look ahead to next week’s episode on spice levels, shame, and celebrating the genre we love with zero apologies.