Shrinking
A heartfelt, hilarious dive into the imperfect process of healing with laugh first, gut punches later.
Created by the powerhouse trio Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel, this Apple TV show takes the classic “therapist with issues of his own” framework and flips it into something funnier and far more human.
The Premise:
Jason Segel plays Jimmy, a therapist who’s still drowning from the loss of his wife and decides—out of exhaustion, rebellion, or both—to start telling his patients exactly what he thinks with no filters or sugar-coating. Blunt honesty that is ethically questionable and incredibly entertaining.
What follows is a domino effect of
2026 Romance Genre Prediction - Escapism, Emotion, and Romantasy Explosion
2026 Romance Genre Prediction - Escapism, Emotion, and the Romantasy Explosion
If you’re anything like me, your TBR pile is already overflowing; paperback, ebook, audiobook, doesn’t matter; but the eternal question remains: What’s next? As we look ahead to 2026, the romance genre is shifting once again. Here’s my take on what’s in, what’s out, and why our hearts are craving these specific kinds of stories right now.
Trending UP:
1. Romantasy & Hybrid will take over
The biggest splash in 2026 is going to be genre colliding. Romantasy is going to be the undisputed powerhouse with a boost in dark romance, sci-fi romance, and unique sports settings.
In the world we’re living in, we’re all looking for the perfect escape. Hybrid genres offer the best of both worlds: the high-stakes, world-ending drama of fantasy and/or sci-fi combined with the absolute necessity of a satisfying romantic conclusion. It’s a richer, more complex reading experience that keeps the genre feeling fresh and inventive, and scratches that itch for epic adventure.
2. Deep Emotional Resonance & Healing Arcs
Everything around us feels a little
Running Point
If you’re not looking for drama or heartbreak or don’t want to decode hidden metaphors or endure emotional trauma. If you just want to laugh and have a good time, here is your binge-worthy show Running Point. A perfect antidote to a long week.
The story follows the former
The Girlfriend
A Twisted Tale of Two Truths.
If you’re in the mood for a show that messes with your mind in the best way, Girlfriend should be next on your binge list. This series thrives on perspective and weaponizes it.
Nobody Wants This
If you haven’t seen Season One of Nobody Wants This, you are seriously missing out. The premise is already gold:
Joanne, an agnostic sex-positive podcaster, meets Noah, a devoted, surprisingly charming, and
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
Okay, the spice fiend in me never thought I’d pick up this book. But right before boarding a thirteen-hour flight, I bought it on a whim. I tried to imagine the best- and worst-case scenarios:
The Stopover by T. L. Swan
If you’re looking for witty banter, a constant push and pull, and chemistry that jumps off the page… this is your next read. It’s not your book if you’re looking for deep connection, character arc, or logic, though.
When upgraded to first class
Funny Story by Emily Henry reviewed by Delia Duke
Okay, full confession: the spice fiend in me never thought I’d pick up an Emily Henry book. But I’m glad I did; otherwise, I would’ve missed seeing how a complicated story can be told with such clarity and heart.
I was juggling a dark romance audiobook and drafting an emotionally
The Ravenhood
Ravenhood Series - Flock, Exodus, The Finish Line
I have so much to say, but no clue where to start. This review contains spoilers.
Flock opened with a bang—a fish-out-of-water troupe that had me hooked. Every one of Cecelia’s decisions left me gasping, “Girl, what are you doing?!” “Stop! Think. Just don’t do it.”
Cecelia, the poor daughter of a wealthy and morally questionable father,
Why Bridgerton’s On-Screen Romance Outshine the Pages
As a fan of both books and television, I find the Bridgerton series on Netflix more captivating than the novels. The show brings Regency-era England to life with vibrant colors, lavish costumes, and stunning set designs that the books can't match. The characters are more compelling thanks to the actors' performances, and the chemistry between them is electric in every season. Lady Danbury and Queen Charlotte become even more unforgettable.
The series enhances the original storylines by diving deeper into the characters' lives and motivations, creating more engaging and romantic plots with enticing incidents and cliffhangers. The clever use of modern music and the bold exploration of themes like gender and power dynamics add a contemporary twist. The witty dialogue enhances the chemistry among characters, making their interactions even more enjoyable and romantic. The Bridgerton series captures the essence of the books while adding layers of romance and drama that make it truly irresistible.
Reading Between the Lines
Love is a language that transcends words, expressed through our body language. When two hearts connect on a deep level, their gestures, glances, and touches speak volumes about the depth of their affection. Every movement tells a story, revealing the unspoken truths of the heart. A couple lost in conversation, their eyes locked in a shared gaze that speaks of understanding and connection. It’s not just the words they exchange, but the way they hold each other’s gaze, conveying a sense of warmth and intimacy that words alone cannot express.
Your Bucket List
For bucket lists, there’s often a misconception that they’000re reserved for those entering their golden years or facing a life-changing event. The truth is, there’s no “right” age to dream big and plan the adventures you want to experience in your lifetime. Whether you’re a teenager, a young adult, or well into your retirement years, crafting a bucket list can be an inspiring endeavor at any stage of life.
Finding Love Again
There's something inherently captivating about two people getting a shot at love, redemption, and forgiveness. But is there any scientific basis behind the concept of reigniting a past relationship? The notion of second-chance romance resonates deeply with many of us because it taps into our innate desire for redemption and renewal. Whether it's rekindling an old flame or giving a failed relationship another try, the idea of getting a second shot at love is undeniably exciting.
Love at First Sight: Cliche’ or Possible?
Let’s explore the Science Behind Romance. As a romance writer, I often find myself drawn to the concept of love at first sight. It’s a trope that has captivated audiences for centuries, yet its plausibility remains a topic of debate. Can two strangers truly fall in love with just a single glance? A fleeting moment of connection sparks a lifelong romance is undeniably romantic, but is there any scientific basis to support this notion? Let’s delve into the scientific facts behind this phenomenon and uncover the truth.