Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.
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While it may not “officially” be summer yet, it sure as heck feels like it around here. And I am not a fan. There was one day last week when I thought we would luck out weather-wise. It had stormed heavily the night before so by the time the morning came, it was cool and breezy. But by the afternoon, the heat was on once again. *sad trombone noise*
Bookish Goods
Book Trope Stamp Stickers by TheBookNerdNamedKris
I never collected stamps as a kid, but I am sure tempted to go ahead and get all of these. They’re cute, they’re shiny, and they’re small, which means you can put a lot on one surface. Also, they are only $2, so go ahead and treat yourself by splurging on multiples!
New Releases
Match Me If You Can by Swati Hegde
By day, Jia spends most of her time writing listicles for the popular Mumbai women’s magazine, Mimosa. Her nights are devoted to writing about love on an anonymous blog and weekly game nights with her family and childhood friend Jaiman. When she has the chance to pen a new matchmaking column, she’s excited for the opportunity. The only catch is she has to set up one of her coworkers first. But when that doesn’t go as smoothly as she expected it to, she’s left having to rethink her feelings on love as well as wonder if she should throw caution to the wind and take a chance on Jaiman.
Isabel and the Rogue by Liana De la Rosa
Isabel’s wallflower status is just what is needed when she’s tasked with finding secrets to help Mexico during the French Occupation. During one of her attempts to get this information, she draws the attention of Sirius, a covert agent for the British Home Office, who spends his time trying to learn the secrets of the ton. The attraction is instant and mutual, but when Isabel learns of something that could turn the tide of the turmoil in Mexico in her home country’s favor, she finds herself having to choose between the love of her home country or the love of Sirius.
For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
Today is National Drive-In Movie Day. I won’t lie, I love the nostalgic and retro vibe these have. Truthfully, I’ve only been to one, and that was to see Raya and the Last Dragon a few Spring Breaks ago. But the vibe was everything.
While drive-in theaters are pretty rare now, there are a lot of books that center around movies, such as the debut When I Think Of You that came out a few months ago. I do recommend that book for those who want a romance with a Hollywood adjacent setting, as well as the following movie-centric romances. Enjoy!
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
When Cannon sees Neevah perform on a Broadway stage, he knows she’s perfect for the starring role in his upcoming Harlem Renaissance biopic. While there is an instant attraction, neither is willing to risk tarnishing the film by getting into a relationship. The temptation soon proves to be too much, and they give in to their hearts. However, the road ahead won’t be easy, especially when something unexpected threatens everything, and they find they will have to fight tooth and nail for their love.
Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner
When the paparazzi snaps a picture of showrunner Jo making her assistant Emma laugh, they are immediately labeled a couple. The gossip begins to affect their professional and personal lives, compounded by the fact that they work closely together. While neither comment on their relationship status, the time spent together soon has them wondering if there is something more to their relationship than they originally thought.
And that is all I have for y’all today. Remember, you can always catch up with me over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated!