Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter! We’re almost at the end of the work week, halfway through the month of December, and 10 days from Christmas. That still blows my mind. That said, I hope that you’ve gotten most, if not all, your shopping done. I tend to be fairly frugal even at this time of year, especially since my spouse and son have their birthdays in January and February respectively. So, I don’t want to buy all the awesome stuff now.
I’m still working my way through Kiss Her Once For Me. On the complete opposite side of the spectrum, I started How To Sell a Haunted House because why not? After those two I think I’m going to wind down from recording what I’m reading so I can start 2023 fresh.
And speaking of 2023, it’s time for the Read Harder Challenge! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.
Bookish Goods
Booklovers Ornament by salvagemevintage
We put up our tree this last weekend (early for us!) which is why this cute little ornament is getting a light shone on it today. Putting it up is important to the Teenager and I don’t know how much longer that will last. So, I still endeavor to do it every year with a smile on my face. Whether or not you’re in the same boat, this is a great way to display your love for reading. Price is set at either $13 or $18, depending on whether or not you want it personalized.
New Releases
A Little Holiday Spirit by Lesandra Moore
Fresh off a breakup, Spirit is not looking forward to the holidays with her family. So, she decides to take her roommate up on an offer to go home with her instead and celebrate with her family. What she doesn’t know is that she will be sharing a room with a complete, albeit handsome, stranger.
I Saw Mommy Kissing the Nanny by Shannon O’Connor
When grad student Morgan goes to her job interview as a temporary nanny, she is shocked to discover that the mother is no other than Lucy, her latest one night stand. While both women initially agree to have a professional relationship only, real feelings begin to develop. As the countdown to Christmas starts, will both women overcome their own insecurities and take a chance on love as a Christmas gift?
For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
Earlier this year I wrote about the sudden boom of ‘apron tuggers‘ in romance novels in recent years. This was especially noticeably this year, both in what was being published and, on a personal note, what I read. Since we’re winding down to the end of 2022, I figured now would be a good time to recommend some romances in this category, two of which I read and one that is on my never-ending TBR pile.
Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
Dahlia is recently divorced and looking to reinvent herself. London is looking to prove themselves to their father and everyone else who questions their identity. The sparks immediately fly when they meet on the set of a reality baking competition but as with all competitions, there can only be one winner. I adored this novel and everything about it. And, as an added bonus, this was my first five star read of this year.
Chef’s Kiss by TJ Alexander
Simone loves her job at The Discerning Chef and the lack of waves she has to deal with. All this changes with the new kitchen manager Ray, who turns out to be the sunshine to her grumpiness. Still, she finds herself softening towards Ray the more they work together. When she finds out how close-minded her job is when Ray comes out as nonbinary, she is left wondering exactly how important the job is to her, especially since it involves someone who has managed to work their way into her heart. This was a sweet, slow burn that I feel didn’t got as much love as it should have this last year and I aim to change that.
Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau
Ryan is an actor who is on a break and looking to bond with his dad after his mother’s death. Lindsay is a baker and Ryan’s somewhat unwilling partner for the celebrity edition of reality show Baking Fail. As the two work together, they bond in multiple ways and begin to develop romantic feelings for one another. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; I’ve never really been disappointed with one of Lau’s books. I’m really looking forward to reading this one.
Here is one romance reader’s top 35 of 2022.
If you’ve been yearning for more queer fantasy romance, then this list may have a few good recommendations for you.
Here is a round-up of some of the winter romances here or headed our way soon.
And here are some more holiday romances to pick up this season!
That’s all I have for y’all today and this week friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with more updates for y’all and, if you need a litlte more of me in the meantime, I can be found floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.