The hottest Romance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Miranda July's Lucrative Fantasies

Freddie deBoer • 14077 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Feminism Romance Identity
  1. Fantasies about life can often lead to disappointments. It's important to stay realistic about what to expect in a new place or lifestyle, rather than getting lost in idealized visions.
  2. The idea of 'having it all' is unrealistic for anyone, not just women. Life comes with limitations, and people need to be aware of the challenges involved in balancing career and family.
  3. Romantic ideals, like long-term relationships, provide genuine support and connection in life. Pursuing endless novelty may not lead to the happiness people expect, as the excitement can fade quickly.

The Free Press in Love

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1136 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Romance Relationships Personal Stories Narratives
  1. Love can be found in the most unexpected places, like rooftops and newsrooms. It's about recognizing those moments wherever they happen.
  2. Childhood crushes can leave a lasting impression. Even years later, we remember the special feelings we had for that one person.
  3. Jealousy can be a real emotion, especially for kids. It shows how much we care about those we like, even if we don't express it openly.

Culture Study Goes Full ACOTAR

Culture Study • 3308 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Fantasy Romance Literature Podcasts Critique
  1. These books have explicit sex scenes that focus on female pleasure, offering multiple builds and payoffs, with a perspective that centers around women's desires.
  2. The hotness in the books is rooted in monogamous fantasies, exploring the idea of soulmates and eternal monogamy as very sexy concepts.
  3. The series grapples with the complexity of first loves and the trauma of realizing someone may not be your perfect match, providing a rare depiction of challenging romantic realities.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

It’s Oscar Night!

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1507 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Movies Reviews Criticism Romance Drama
  1. The Oscars ceremony might not be highly anticipated, but the lineup of movies competing for Best Picture is impressive.
  2. The movie 'American Fiction' provides a satirical take on identity politics in the context of a black writer's success with writing cliched storylines.
  3. In 'Oppenheimer,' director Christopher Nolan uses a unique structure to showcase the creation of the atomic bomb and the interplay of fusion and fission processes.

Flights of fancy

Vague Blue • 239 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
📚 Literature Fantasy Romance Tragedy Realism Classics
  1. Fantasy can be integral to a fulfilling life, but relentless pursuit of fantasy can lead to downfall
  2. Life is more of a tragicomedy than a rom-com with fixed happy endings
  3. Desire for more can be a slow-burning poison leading to dissatisfaction with one's current life

Get Tickets for Bet on Love!

Above The Fold • 275 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Romance Music
  1. Bet on Love is a professionally produced live dating show with betting happening on Manifold.
  2. The event will take place in San Francisco at the Brava Theater Center, with a livestream available.
  3. Contestants can still participate and the show will feature live music by Tim Blais and Bashu.

Bane War Vol. 1 Fury

cruiseandpaul • 40 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Fantasy Adventure Romance Literature Character development
  1. The story follows Saffa, a young woman whose life changes dramatically when she discovers her magical powers. She has to face challenges while trying to reconnect with her love, Soren.
  2. The plot includes romance elements like love triangles and opposites attracting, making it emotionally rich. Saffa’s relationships add drama and interest to the story.
  3. The writing is engaging, with a mix of action and thoughtfulness. It paints a colorful picture of the setting and balances serious themes with humor.

This Is Paradise

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 13 May 24
📚 Literature History Romance Fiction Poetry Demography
  1. Infanticide was a common practice in many historical societies when families couldn't care for all their children. It often happened without legal punishment, especially against unwanted infants.
  2. Although Christianity introduced strong taboos against infanticide, it might not have completely stopped the practice. Evidence suggests that infanticide, particularly sex-selective infanticide, still occurred in Europe despite its legal prohibition.
  3. Infanticide impacts literature by influencing themes of abandonment and family dynamics. Many classic stories use these themes to convey deeper truths about society and the struggles people faced.

Fiction seekers, your search ends here!

The Lifeboat • 275 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
📚 Literature Short Stories Novels Sci-fi Fantasy Romance
  1. The post provides a curated index of fiction works by the author, spanning various genres like sci-fi, fantasy, dark comedy, and romance, making it easy for fiction seekers to explore based on their interests.
  2. The author emphasizes sharing similar lists as a way to support fellow writers and engage with a community of fiction enthusiasts.
  3. The post also mentions the availability of both digital and physical versions of the author's work, with an invitation to readers to sign up for updates and leave comments.

The Romance of Art

Clinsights • 255 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
⚔ Fiction Romance Storytelling
  1. A chance encounter can ignite a spark and bring joy and purpose to life.
  2. Creativity and inspiration can come from unexpected sources.
  3. Embracing the anticipation and uncertainty of the creative process can lead to unique and fulfilling experiences.

Marooned

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Romance Social Commentary
  1. Dating can be tricky, especially when someone feels like they're playing a game with their own time and priorities. It's okay to acknowledge that not every connection will feel right.
  2. In the chaos of the pandemic, many found new routines and skills, like cooking and exercising, that helped them feel a sense of independence and control.
  3. Sometimes, it’s better to take your time getting to know someone rather than rushing into things. Building a relationship should happen at a pace that feels comfortable.

The Lesbian Behind The Camera

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 157 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Film Photography Romance Gender
  1. Lesbian films often feature women taking pictures of each other, portraying themes of gaze and power.
  2. Photography in lesbian films serves as a tool for expressing desire and intimacy in a safe way.
  3. The depiction of photography in lesbian films highlights the lesbian gaze, visibility vs invisibility, and the power of the lesbian perspective.

A Love Trinity Denied

From The Future • 157 implied HN points • 03 Jun 23
⚔ Fiction Romance Sci-fi Drama Mystery Adventure
  1. The story revolves around a complex love triangle involving mysterious characters and hidden motives.
  2. The characters are drawn into a world of secrecy, missions, and unexpected alliances that challenge their relationships.
  3. Themes of longing, secrecy, and the complexity of human emotions are central to the narrative.

Thus Spake Barnabas

Banana Peel Pirouette • 138 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
⚔ Fiction Romance Technology Social Interaction
  1. People in their early thirties may start thinking about settling down and reevaluating their personal life and relationships.
  2. The use of technology, such as the Ticule app, can greatly impact and improve social interactions, helping individuals like Miriam with anxiety navigate social situations with confidence.
  3. Storytelling can emphasize moments of vulnerability and intimacy, like the unique experience Miriam had on her date, showcasing the power of genuine human connection.

💖 Fall in Love All Over Again at Valentine's Day Events in Bangkok!

Digest // Storefronts of Bangkok • 59 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Events Romance Destinations
  1. Explore romantic Valentine's Day events in Bangkok such as cocktail workshops, book clubs, and movie screenings for a memorable experience with your loved one.
  2. Experience unique and enchanting settings for celebrating Valentine's Day, like rooftop parties, riverside dinners, and cultural events, to make your heart flutter and create lasting memories.
  3. Immerse in Thai cuisine, mixology, literary discussions, and cinematic journeys at various venues in Bangkok to celebrate love and togetherness this Valentine's season.

Love Stories

Life and Letters • 39 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Cultural Studies Romance Creative Writing
  1. Societies that are wealthier and more populated create more love stories in literature. This means that as people live closer together and have more resources, they start writing more about love.
  2. Literature helps us understand different forms of intimacy in complicated societies. It can influence how people think about their relationships and what love looks like in their lives.
  3. There seems to be a pattern in the history of love literature across different cultures. Even without direct connections, similar themes and styles appear in literature from different parts of the world during the same time periods.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing • 79 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
⚔ Fiction Fantasy Drama Adventure Mystery Romance
  1. The protagonist encounters a mysterious and unique mannequin-like figure named Charon, adding an element of intrigue and mystery to the story.
  2. The story delves into themes of identity and existence, questioning the nature of life and purpose through the dialogue between the protagonist and Charon.
  3. The conversation at the dinner table between the characters highlights differing perspectives on topics like duty, honor, family, and sacrifice.

Words Unspoken and Other Stories

The Lifeboat • 91 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📚 Literature Short Stories Romance Fiction Books Writing
  1. The story portrays a conversation between Felix and Felicia, highlighting how sometimes people drift apart when they realize they have nothing in common beyond a shared environment.
  2. The tale captures the complexity of relationships and the struggle to communicate effectively when faced with changes or divergence in paths.
  3. Communication, shared interests, and understanding are crucial elements in relationships to avoid misunderstandings and maintain connection.

Romance

Soaring Twenties • 224 implied HN points • 04 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Romance Essays Fiction Poetry Creators
  1. Romance is a big theme in writing and requires vulnerability and care to handle well.
  2. Different writers explored romance through poetry, fiction, and essays in a diverse and engaging way.
  3. The Symposium on Romance featured a variety of beautiful and thought-provoking pieces that captivate the essence of love and relationships.

Find a Lover Like Manuelita

Juan David’s Newsletter • 5 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture History Literature Romance Revolution Identity
  1. Find a love that challenges social norms and stands by you fearlessly. Manuelita Sáenz showed that real love isn't limited by society's rules.
  2. Look for a partner who fights alongside you in life and bravery. Manuelita actively participated in battles and fought for her beliefs.
  3. Cherish a love that endures through hardships and remains strong despite challenges. Manuelita loved Bolívar deeply, even during his exile and after his death.

The game theory of seduction and marriage... with Jane Austen

Optimally Irrational • 38 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Psychology Romance Interactions Social norms
  1. Finding a romantic partner can be complex, involving significant time, effort, and thought due to the high stakes involved in love and seduction.
  2. In Jane Austen's novels, the economic considerations of marriage underscore the immense importance of women's choices in selecting a partner.
  3. Navigating romantic interactions involves understanding higher-order beliefs and carefully managing ambiguity, a key aspect seen across different time periods in the courtship process.

no. 57: the sound of bells

let them eat cake • 99 implied HN points • 30 Jul 22
🍲 Food & Drink Wine Culture Business Romance Legacy
  1. Selecting wines based on a personal 'bell' moment is a unique and intuitive approach that embraces the ineffable nature of taste.
  2. The story behind a wine, including the winemaker's journey and the vineyard's history, can add depth to the wine-drinking experience, regardless of scientific accuracy.
  3. Romance and mystery play a significant role in the allure of wine, transforming personal experiences and stories into tangible aspects of wine production.

Fic Review: Refuge in Oblivion

Record Crash • 19 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
📚 Literature Fanfiction Romance Time travel
  1. The fic series, Refuge in Oblivion, is based on Homestuck and follows a complex order of storytelling with multiple works in the series.
  2. The prequel has an interesting plot but lacks character development, while the sequel focuses more on a romance angle.
  3. Stakes in the fics are low and the worldbuilding is weak, making the overall experience disappointing for Homestuck fans.

Aloe Vera

As Ever • 2 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Short Stories Narrative Romance
  1. Relationships can be confusing and sometimes feel like they're built on almosts. People often hesitate to fully engage, missing out on important connections.
  2. Intimacy can be awkward, especially when trying to get closer to someone you care about. Little moments, like applying sunscreen, can lead to deeper connections.
  3. Silence in a relationship can either bring people closer together or create a barrier. It's important to talk about the past and be open about feelings for a healthier bond.

from paris with love

alice maz • 26 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature Love Life Poetry Romance
  1. The story explores the passionate and tumultuous relationships between Renée Vivien and Natalie Clifford Barney, highlighting themes of love, poetry, jealousy, and growth.
  2. Renée Vivien and Natalie Clifford Barney had a complex, star-crossed love affair filled with intense emotions, struggles with fidelity, and conflicting desires for spiritual and physical union.
  3. Natalie's evolving relationships and life at 20 rue Jacob became a central hub of lesbian culture and art, illustrating her journey from turbulent affairs to stable connections and artistic fulfillment.