Hello and Happy Monday to you. I hope that whatever time of day you’re reading this finds you well. Over here, we’re enjoying the last week of freedom before back to school, which is a bit nerve wracking for me this year. Even though I’m confident he will take it by storm, I’m not ready for that world just yet. It is so weird to think that we’re already there. Still, I’ll try to keep a positive outlook for him so I can be the support system he needs to navigate those waters.
On another note, today is Happiness Happens Day, which, if I’m being honest, sounds a bit aggressively cheerful. Totally agree with the intention behind it, since it’s essentially you don’t always need a reason to be happy but still…
In other news, tomorrow is Book Lover’s Day which I know we can all get down with.
Bookish Goods
Spicy Books Mug by MidnightDoorStudio
I love the subtle yet firm message that this mug delivers. And the art work is just delightful to me. Do I need another coffee mug? No. But to be fair, I also don’t need more books…but that’s not going to stop me from buying or wanting to buy more. And this is one that combines two of my loves into one glorious, caffeinated beverage holder. $16
New Releases
Her Unexpected Roommate by Jackie Lau
After a promising one-night stand never calls, Rose is understandably upset but resolves to move on. Several months later, she is surprised to find her new roommate is the same man who ghosted her He says it was due to losing her phone number. While she doesn’t believe him, she agrees to let him stay for the time being and soon finds herself enjoying his company more than she should.
Midsummer Night D by Ines Johnson
Troy and Maya have a most interesting meet cute when she mistakes the engineer for the model for the adult toy she is being tasked with creating. I am not sure about y’all, but that’s enough of a hook for me to want to pick up this novella.
For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter!
Riot Recommendations
Since it’s Happiness Happens Day, I decided today’s recommendations should feature the grumpy/sunshine trope. This is one of the more popular ones out there and I think a good portion of that is due to it being applicable in almost every type of relationship. Think about your friends and family members; chances are that dynamic may be present, with the close ones, especially.
As someone who is not ashamed to admit that, more times than not, they’re the “grumpy” factor, I feel this to be very true. And that’s okay because my “sunshine” friends still love me and, for them especially, I can easily swap sides if the situation calls for it.
With that said, here are the recommendations for today.
A Kiss for Midwinter by Courtney Milan
I’ll admit I’m even more of a sucker for the grumpy/sunshine dynamic during the winter holidays and this one is no exception. Lydia and Jonas are perfectly balanced out here with his pragmatic and somewhat sarcastic nature acting as a foil to her optimistic one. It’s just delightful.
Always On You by Chloe Liese
Ren is a hockey player who finds himself attracted to Frankie, one of the staff members on his team. And, despite her tough exterior, Frankie isn’t exactly unaffected by Ren but works hard to keep him at arm’s length. I really love books where the grumpy person is the FMC as opposed to the MMC since that is the default for some reason. This could be because, as stated above, I am Grumpy in mine but who knows? Either way, sign me up!
The latest Trope Tuesday from Love’s Sweet Arrow is all about finding love a conventions.
Also, I’m really happy to see that The Ripped Bodice’s June’s Pride display is now a permanent fixture.
Take this fun back to school quiz to get your soul mate’s first initial.
This list proves that when it comes to love, age isn’t anything but a number; provided, of course, that both parties are consenting adults.
Are you interested in joining us here on Book Riot? We’re looking for an Editorial Operations Associate. The position includes behind the scenes tasks such as working closely with other editors and contributors, and we are committed to building an inclusive workforce and strongly encourage applications from women, individuals with disabilities, and people of color. If that sounds up your alley, you can apply by clicking here — today is the last day so you still have some time!
And that’s all for today. I’ll be back Thursday with another fresh edition of the newsletter. As always, you can give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy readying and stay hydrated!