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Ever wondered how Mexican vaqueros shaped the American cowboy myth? Join us as Adriana Herrera and Nikki Payne shed light on the forgotten pioneers of the West. Learn how Hollywood's portrayal of Mexico as a lawless frontier served to justify American expansionism, and discover the vaquero's true legacy that dates back to the Spanish conquistadors. Prepare to challenge your understanding of cowboy skills and uncover the often-overlooked influence of vaquero culture on today's Western narratives.

We dive deep into the romanticized cowboy narrative, comparing it to the rich storytelling traditions of Mexican telenovelas. Through the lens of "Fuego en la Sangre," you'll see how themes of class struggle and the alpha hero archetype from humble beginnings are central to both cultures. Discover how notions of earned skill and valor, deeply rooted in vaquero tradition, have shaped our ideals of heroism and identity in the American West. This exploration not only bridges historical divides but also celebrates the vaquero's indelible mark on cowboy mythos.

The US-Mexico border is more than just a line on a map—it’s a powerful symbol in Western media and political rhetoric. From the early days of Texas' fight for independence to the modern-day implications, we unravel the complex narratives that have long overshadowed Mexican contributions. Dive into cowboy romances where love battles class divides, and see how stereotypical portrayals have persisted in popular media. As we wrap up our series, we invite you, our listeners, to share your thoughts and engage with us as we continue to uncover hidden histories and foster a sense of community.

Read these award-winning books from our co-hosts:
Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
In this contemporary, diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera.
All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard.

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at:
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss
Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

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In this week's episode of "Unbound," Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera, invite you to indulge in a sensory overload as they dissect Beyonce's latest masterpiece, "Renaissance." Through their unique blend of pop culture expertise and candid conversations, our hosts will not only break down each track but also complement them with delicious wine and cheese pairings in the form of a book recommendation.

From the first thumping notes of "I'm That Girl" to the rousing finale of "Summer Renaissance," we'll explore the themes and sounds that make up Beyonce's ode to the club scene. As the beats take us on a journey through self-love, freedom, and identity, Nikki and Adriana suggest books that mirror the same unapologetic energy and passion as Beyonce's work. Each literary recommendation will transport listeners into a world where they feel empowered, liberated, and enamored.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:
Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)
In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera
All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard.

Interact with us at
TikTok: @unbound.pod
Instagram: unboundpod
X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at:
https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:
https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss
Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/

Send us a Text Message.

In this week's intriguing episode of Unbound, titled "Everything Your Man Won't Do," hosts Nikki Payne and Adriana Herrera dive headfirst into the complexities of relationships and the myriad ways their male protagonists might differ from what listeners expect. They explore the fascinating topic of how certain actions or inactions can make or break a connection, particularly when it comes to characters of color in a Western romance setting. The discussion revolves around the idea that readers often crave redemption arcs for their favorite characters, but is it necessary for Black leads to undergo such a transformation? Is there room for growth without atonement?

Join Nikki and Adriana as they delve into the nuances of character development, the potential double standards applied to Black heroes, and how these tropes either enrich or stifle the genre. Through candid conversations, thought-provoking anecdotes, and a deep appreciation for storytelling, the cohosts unpack the expectations surrounding masculinity, desires, and the journey towards fulfillment in a world where legends are born. Get ready to reconsider common conventions and embrace new perspectives on love, honor, and what constitutes the irresistible cowboy.

Read these award winning books from our co-hosts:

Sex, Lies and Sensibility, by Nikki Payne (Pre-Order)

In this contemporary diverse retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, two sisters find themselves and find love in the rustic beauty of Maine.

Run Darling, by New York Times best selling Author Adriana Herrera

All Arabella Gaspar wanted was to buy some fun sexy grown-up toys for her first time leading her house’s run, but after one or two—okay, a dozen—threats from Magi who don’t think a girl should be a Toy Runner (eye-roll) her overprotective brothers have stuck her with none other than Rhyne Carrasco to be her bodyguard.

Interact with us at

TikTok: @unbound.pod

Instagram: unboundpod

X: @Unbound_Pod

Can't get enough of Nikki Payne? Check out her website at:

https://www.nikkipaynebooks.com/

Need more Adriana in your life? She can be found at:

https://adrianaherreraromance.com/

RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2196419.rss

Website: https://www.unboundpod.com/