Categories
Kissing Books

Let It (Slowly) Burn

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

Here we are at the start of another week. Some of y’all with kiddos may be preparing for the return to school. We’ll be in that boat next week ourselves. I have to say that summer seems to get shorter and shorter each year, which makes me sad for kids nowadays. While it’s true they get a few more days off during the year, I hate he misses out on the “traditional” three-month summer I had growing up. Oh well; such is life.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

picture of wooden bookmark with holder

Hardwood Bookmark with Book Holder by WoodTactics

I recently redeemed three of my BOTM credits for my August box. So something tells me I should consider investing in a book holder very soon. When you factor in they also come with their very own bookmark and the two fit together for easy storing? Seems like a win/win all around! Prices start at $17

New Releases

cover of Accidentally in Love

Accidentally in Love by Danielle Jackson

Aside from being loved ones for a soon-to-be-happily-married couple, Samantha and Russ don’t have a whole lot in common. She is the office manager for the Buxom Boudoir photography company in charge of the launch of the company’s “photobus.” He works full-time at a restaurant and has been tasked with getting the food truck ready for launch. These professional endeavors put them both at Chicago’s street festival and leaves more opportunities for them to run into each other.

cover of Start Us Up

Start Us Up by Lexi Blake

When tech genius Ivy trusts the wrong person, her promising career crashes and she has to move back in with her mother. Heath is a pro at writing code and believes it can be found in everything, even his grandmother’s legendary matchmaking skills. When they met, it seems like a mutually beneficial professional relationship for both of them. However, there is also that bothersome spark of attraction that doesn’t seem to want to go away.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

I recently finished You Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea. I had been working on it for a bit due to, once again, getting distracted by other books. But I enjoyed it overall. While I wouldn’t personally classify it as a cozy, as there were a lot of high stakes involved, I definitely would classify it as a slow burn.

Which of course got me thinking about slow burns in romances. I know that some people loathe these because they want all the sexy scenes, which is fair because to each their own. I am a fan of these types of romances, though, especially if the payoff is worth the wait. Now this isn’t always the case since there are some slow burns out there that are also off-the-page. But even then, for me, the journey is well worth it. With that said, here are some recommendations that I have for slow-burn romances.

cover of The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest

One day while Lily is stuck on a subway, she sends an email to N.R. Strickland, the author of her favorite under-the-radar fantasy novel. To her surprise, he writes back and they start up a correspondence. After making plans to meet, he suddenly ghosts her, leaving her confused and heartbroken. Months later when she needs a date for her sister’s wedding, she asks handsome neighbor Nick, not realizing that he is the same man she talked with months earlier. Now he’s left searching for a way to explain what happened all those months before.

cover of Screwdrivered

Screwdrivered by Alice Clayton

When software engineering genius and romance novel lover Viv inherits her grandmother’s house, she sees this as an opportunity to embark on an adventure and find a real-life romance of her own. When she finds out that the house also comes with a cowboy, she is even more sure of a love match. The only snag is uptight librarian Clark, who insists on calling her Vivian. As Viv is about to find out though, still waters run deep and the romance she is looking for may be with the last person she expects.

If you’ve been hearing about the recent discourse between Romance BookTok and the Seattle Kraken hockey team, this is a fairly good and neutral summary of the issue.

Pick a food in every color and get a Disney soulmate. I got Prince Edward from Enchanted, which gave me pause until I realized he has more than enough sunshine to balance my grumpy tendencies, so it pans out.

And if you like romantic suspense, here are some books to add to your ever-expanding TBR.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Thursday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime I can be found floating around over on the site that still Twitter in my heart under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

All the Pink (Covers)

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

Last weekend I went to go see The Haunted Mansion with my partner and another one of our friends. And I enjoyed it thoroughly cause I felt it did a good job of balancing horror with comedy and having a unique story while simultaneously paying homage to the lore of the ride. If you’re a fan of the ride and the story behind it, I heartily recommend giving it a try.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

picture of I Buy Books Like I'm Immortal sticker

I Buy Books Like I’m Immortal Sticker by MiasMakingThings

Where’s the lie though? I bought 13 books last month and I know that I will buy more next month. At least I also unhaul at a fairly healthy rate, so those scales are somewhat balanced. If you also buy books like you’re going to live forever, then this is perfect for you and prices start at $3.

New Releases

cover of Entangled Desires

Entangled Desires by Abiegail and Madison Rose

Amaya is a single mother who is focused on raising her child and her career. This leaves little time for romance. But when she meets Lucas and Liam on the same night, she is torn between the two drastically different men. While she is trying to figure that out, her ex enters the picture and she soon finds herself drawn between three different men, knowing that whatever choice she makes will have a drastic effect on the rest of her life.

cover of Right Guy, Wrong Word

Right Guy, Wrong Word by Jewel E. Ann

Anna is excited to be up for picking her book club’s next pick since she just knows it will be a hit. Her hot new neighbor Eric is eager to be invited to join the book club, looking forward to the opportunity to make more literary friends and to get to know his neighbor better. However, when Eric misspeaks about something, their story seems to be doomed before it even has the chance to start.

This was originally released as a short story and has been revised and expanded.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

When it comes to movies, I’m actually fairly picky about what I’ll venture out to the theater for. The Haunted Mansion was not a question because I’m a big Disney nerd. That said, I am not unaware of the recent box office battle between Barbie or Oppenheimer movie.

In the spirit of being honest, I’ll state outright that I had no plans of seeing either. I was not a Barbie girl growing up; it was all about My Little Pony. And, to be honest, I didn’t even know a movie about Oppenheimer was in the works. However, hearing more about the Barbie movie makes me want to see it. I’m honest enough to admit that a good chunk is the pettiness rearing up in me. This movie has so many people of a specific demographic pressed that they’re bashing it at every chance, which is just silly.

If it’s not for you that’s fine. But don’t actively pooh on something that is bringing others joy. People seem to forget that you don’t have to do a verbal thesis on your opinion of everything pop culture related. Sometimes you can just say “It’s not for me but I’m glad it bought you joy.” Or not say anything at all.

Since I am petty and tired of haters in general, and to celebrate all the Barbie lovers who flocked to the cinema in a specific color, today’s recommendations all have pink covers. Enjoy!

cover of Loathe to Love You

Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood

In this collection of Hazelwood’s STEMinist novellas, we are introduced to scientists and lifelong friends Mara, Sadie, and Hannah as they settle into their lives post-grad and unexpectedly find love along the way.

cover of Fake It Till You Bake It

Fake It Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley

After turning down a proposal on a reality dating show, Jada comes back to San Diego to lay low for a bit. There she starts working at the Sugar Blitz Bakery that is run by professional football player Donovan. When they’re mistaken for a couple, the two decide to use this to their advantage to help boost the bakery and redeem Jada in the eye of the public. Of course, neither expect to actually fall in love.

Congratulations, again, to The Ripped Bodice for opening up a new location in Brooklyn.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with another roundabout and in the meantime I can be found on the site formerly known as Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Working Together Towards Love

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

How is it already the end of July? August starts tomorrow, and it’s hard for me to reconcile that school will be starting back up in a few short weeks. I’m feeling a bit of the guilt over not doing what I had planned to do with the Teenager this summer, but also, in my defense, it’s been too hot to really go out and do anything. I’m sure there were more than a few days where it was advised to not go out unless one absolutely had to. Still best-laid plans and all that. I’ll just have to try to him sometime come Thanksgiving and Winter Break when it should be slightly cooler.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of book lover decal

Book Lover Decal by

I just love the the heart in the middle of the pages and will admit it’s the thing that first caught my eye. This decal can be put on your car, your laptop, reusable water bottle…anywhere really. It’s a great way to proclaim your love of reading and is priced at just $3.75

New Releases

cover of Tastes Like Shakkar by Nisha Sharma; illustration of a Desi couple, a man and a woman, standing in the center

Tastes Like Shakkar by Nisha Sharma

In this modern spin on Much Ado About Nothing, the spotlight is focused on event planner Bobbi and chef Bunty as they work together to ensure that Kareena and Prem’s wedding goes off without a hitch. Between the two of them butting heads and someone trying to sabotage the happy couple’s impending nuptials, this soon proves to be a complicated endeavor. There’s also the pesky spark of attraction between the two that seems to shine brighter each time they interact.

cover of with love from cold world

From Cold World, With Love by Alicia Thompson

One of the few things that Lauren and Asa have in common is that they both enjoy their job at Orlando resort Cold World. When their boss asks them to compete to come up with a plan to help drive more visitors, they eagerly take to it, wanting to outdo the other. They soon discover just how much trouble the beloved park may be in. Determined to save it from closure, they work together to save it, all the while becoming well aware of the attraction that is quickly developing between them.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

With it being the last day of July, I decided to end the month with some “Christmas in July” recommendations. Even if I have conflicted feelings about that holiday, both mid-year and at its designated time of year, I also know it brings a lot of joy to many people. So, far be it for me to deny that type of happiness just because it’s not one I share.

‘Cause I will admit for all my posturing that I do love a good holiday romance since it helps to warm my cold little heart.

cover of My One Christmas Wish

My One Christmas Wish by D. Rose

Despite being more than willing to help celebrate her parent’s 35th wedding anniversary, Winter has no desire to find love. Her younger sister has different plans for her and sets her up on a date, and she goes, expecting, if nothing else, to get a few drinks out of the evening. Imagine her surprise when her best friend Gabriel walks in, eager to reconnect and perhaps make their friendship to more.

cover of Christmas in Mistletoe

Christmas in Mistletoe by Clare Lydon

Much to her parent’s neighbors’ shock, music exec Fran fully intends on working through her holiday stay in Mistletoe. When Fran discovers that Ruby, a singer that she had a less than pleasant previous encounter with, is a local, it’s her turn to be surprised. After the two women are thrown together to plan a Christmas festival, they both realize that they may need to let go of the past to prepare for a possible future together.

I took this quiz just for fun and, in a surprise to absolutely no one, I’m sure, got romance. For what it’s worth, I would have also accepted horror.

Here are some sexy summer romances for your consideration.

This tweet is entirely too loud.

Likely the number one reason I shouldn’t work in a bookstore.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes Thursday with a fresh newsletter. In the meantime, you can still find me posting over on the site formerly known as Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Romance Recs From TikTok

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

In bookish things that made me laugh, I recently showed this TikTok to my spouse. Immediately, he went, “No…no…don’t do it my dude…welp that’s all she wrote.” Cause he knows to not prank me like that. Luckily there is a second part that shows it all ended well.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of romance trope wall clock

Romance Trope Wall Clock by LivedAThousandLives

This would be a perfect addition to a reading nook, library, or even your wall office. It’s fun and functional which is always a winning combination. $35

New Releases

cover of Ryker's Last Salvation

Ryker’s Last Salvation by Sherelle Green

From a young age, Ryker has always been the fixer in her family. This also means that she has pretty much lived a solitary existence. Only one man has been able to really break through her protective and protecting outer layer: Shade. Even though she continues to keep him at arms reach, Shade remains waiting in the wings, ready for her to open to him fully, even with the knowledge in the back of his head that he could easily be her destruction or her salvation.

cover of The Hollywood Jinx

The Hollywood Jinx by Sariah Wilson

When the small town of Patience finds itself needing money, temporary librarian/aspiring film score composer Jane comes up with the perfect plan: invite movie star Nick to their annual Harvest Festival. To everyone’s surprise, he agrees and shows up along with a documentary crew to film his time there. Nick is struggling to redeem his reputation, and figures this is just the place to do it. Having the lovely Jane be his guide is an added bonus. But Jane isn’t eager to let just anyone into her heart, especially not a celebrity whose time in town will be limited.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

As I was scrolling through TikTok the other day, I came across this post for Our Satyr Prince and was intrigued by the premise. This is one of the first books that I can readily remember seeing on TikTok first that actually snagged my interest, so much so that it is my next Hubby Budd Read. So, I’ll keep y’all posted on that.

Now, I’m not anti-BookTok at all. I understand that it has its perks and can help under-the-radar authors get noticed. There are also less-great parts about it. As with everything else, it has its plusses and minuses.

The books recommended today are ones that I personally enjoyed and are also considered TikTok books. I may have recommended them in the past as well, but take that as a testament to how awesome they are.

cover of Dating Dr. Dil

Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma

Despite having undeniable chemistry, Kareena and Prem are at odds when it comes to love, which results in a viral on-air shouting match. After that dust settles, they then find themselves both needing a fake romantic partner for various reasons and agree to fill that role with one another. As the charade continues, both begin to wonder if they misjudged one another as well as the possibility of a future between them.

cover of Neon Gods

Neon Gods by Katee Robert

In this version of the Greek myth, Persephone is a society darling who flees to the Underworld to escape an arranged marriage to Zeus. Hades is a man determined to take his revenge on the so-called ruler so when Persephone arrives in his domain seeking sanctuary, he sees the perfect opportunity. The two band together to find a way to destroy the cruel Zeus once and for all and find themselves also being drawn into a more carnal alliance than either planned.

There’s another romance bookstore out in the world!

Here is another perspective on the AC Adams/Adam Geffen situation.

More on The Ripped Bodice’s newest New York chapter.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh slew of romance related information. In the meantime, I can see be found floating around on the site formerly known as Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

“Cool” Reads for Warm Temperatures

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

It’s the last full week of July y’all! My mind is blown. This month seems to have flown by, although if I’m being honest, the same can be said of this whole year. All in all though, July was pretty good to me apart from the heat. Got a lot of socializing in, which for me is different. Read a few good books as well, which is always a bonus. So all in all not too bad.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of Get More Books tumbler

Get More Books Tumbler by WHIDOBE

It occurred to me that as much as I push for hydration, it’s been more than a minute since I shared a tumbler. So, I’m rectifying that now and hoping that this quirky one that can be personalized helps to serve as an incentive to drink water. Because it’s hot as all get out almost everywhere right now. Prices start at $33.65.

New Releases

cover of Four Weddings to Fall In Love

Four Weddings to Fall in Love by Jackie Lau

Max has to attend at least four weddings this year and he is not looking forward to it in the slightest. When he meets Kim at the first one, sparks fly immediately. Against his better judgment, he tries to engage in a one-night stand, which ends in disaster. He is willing to shake it off and try to forget about it until he discovers that Kim is a family friend to his cousins, which means that she will also be in attendance at all the weddings which, all things considered, may get awkward.

cover of CeCe Sloan is Swooning

CeCe Sloan is Swooning by Jamey Moody

CeCe has finally achieved the dream of opening up her own salon and is on Cloud Nine. When her favorite client Alexis, comes to visit the shop, she engages in a little harmless flirting. After all, she doesn’t date clients so there’s no risk there. That is until Alexis changes stylists so that they can date. CeCe fears that as a surgeon, the other woman is so far out of her league there is no hope. But will Alexis be able to convince her otherwise?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

As I’ve mentioned before, it is obnoxiously hot outside. Like to the point where I don’t like going out all that much even if I’m going into a place with AC. I bribe my kid with a $10 payout if he goes to check the mail rather than walk over myself. It. Is. Hot.

So I guess it makes a bit of sense that part of me is already wanting the cooler weather. Maybe not exactly snow but I’d like to be able to go outside with make-up, if I’m feeling so inclined, and not have it melt off.

That’s why today’s themes are books that take place in winter. I suppose another option could be Christmas in July, as I haven’t done that yet this yet. Either way, they’re both books that take place in a location where the temperatures are much cooler, which sounds amazing to me right now.

cover of Baking Spirits Bright

Baking Spirits Bright by Bryce Oakley

Baker Beth knows she needs to be focusing on winning baking competition Top Holiday Baker and not on how attractive Ari, one of the guest judges is. However, there is no denying the attraction between the two, especially when it becomes obvious that Ari wants more from Beth than a few stolen kisses. Will Beth be able to win the prize and the girl or will she have to chose between her career and love?

cover of Love at the Icicle Café

Love at the Icicle Café by Denise N. Wheatley

When Mina returns to Germany to help her parents sell the titular café, she expects it to be an easy process. Then she runs into Scott, her childhood crush and the chef of the restaurant who doesn’t want the sale to go through but can’t afford to meet the price being offered by a hotel chain. When he enlists Mina’s help for the annual Icicle Fest, he sees it as an opportunity to convince her to give him a shot at taking over her family’s establishment and winning her heart.

If you’ve been yearning for some dragon shifter romances, this list has you covered.

Pick your meals for a day and get your soulmate’s Zodiac sign.

This really does sound like an awesome way to spend a Tuesday.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Thursday though with another newsletter and in the meantime you can still find me floating around on Twitter every now and then under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Old-School Romance Recs

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

Last week I went to an event called Mythological Mixer at the Lark & Owl bookstore and had a blast. Not only did I meet a handful of awesome new people, I got to make a flower crown, got a very insightful Tarot draw, and bought Mickey Chambers Shakes It Up and Cool for the Summer. There is also going to be a book club from the event, and the winner of the vote was Clytemnestra. With all these new books, I really need to start making a dent in my TBR/purchased book pile. *wry look*

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of TBR Book Holder

To Be Read Book Holder by BlueberryCreekHome

This pick seems especially fitting, considering all of my recent book hauls. While I don’t think anyone’s entire TBR could fit in here, I think it would be a great place to hold and show off your planned reads for the month, book clubs, readathons, etc. And I love the little crescent moon on the side. $20

New Releases

cover of Fixed Up Ever After

Fixed Up Ever After by Anastasia Dean

After Lola shows up at her sister’s engagement party only to realize that the soon-to-be groom is her ex, she decides a quick hook-up with Javi will help soothe her ego. Neither expect to see each other again but are both surprised when he shows up as the contractor to help renovate her bookstore. They try to keep their professional relationship just that, but when Lola asks Javi to be her fake date for the upcoming wedding they both realize that there may be something more there.

cover of The Make-Believe Widow

The Make-Believe Widow by Darcy Burke

When widower James attends a house party, his primary goal is to find a new wife and mother for his children. Love is not necessary or even wanted, especially after his first marriage. Then he meets the widow Charlotte and feels an undeniable spark and connection. However, Charlotte is, in fact, not a widow and agrees to attend with her friends for a short fling. She is drawn to James as well but has to keep a distance to avoid her secret becoming known.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Recently fellow Rioter Isabella Popp wrote this piece on ‘old-school’ romance. If you haven’t given it a read, be sure to do so cause it’s a great read. And she brings up a valid point.

I’ve said before that there are some problematic roots to the romance genre and I stand by that. However, I also agree with Isabella’s point that it is worth it to read at least one or two. Know your deal breakers for sure since I don’t think that in order to be ‘well-rounded’ you have to read every possible sub-genre. I sure as hell don’t, so naturally, I don’t expect others to either. And there are old-school romance books I adored growing up that I can’t even get through now, which show that reading tastes can, do, and will change.

That said, today I’m going to recommend books that I believe could be classified as old-school romances. They’re also ones that I feel I could reread even now with limited to no issues.

cover of Night Song by Beverly Jenkins

Night Song by Beverly Jenkins

Y’all didn’t really think I was going to let July pass and not recommend at least one Beverly Jenkins, did y’all? Today we’re going with her debut novel about school teacher Cara Lee and Sergeant Chase. She is determined to resist all his romantic overtures, and he is equally as determined to knock down those walls and show her what passion and love can truly be like.

cover of Warrior's Woman

Warrior’s Woman by Johanna Lindsey

A good elevator pitch for this would be Vikings in Space. So, you can expect the associated plot devices that go with those types of romances. Tedra, along with her computer companion Martha, head out seeking aid to help her home planet from being overtaken by an evil man. They crash land on a planet that is ruled by warriors and meets the handsome barbarian Challen. While the two butt heads for their drastically different approaches to life, neither can deny the passion between them.

Late sharing this, but then again, there’s never not a good reason to squeal over an awesome cover.

This one made me laugh out loud. And I just adore his voice. He would read me the back of a Bisquick box and I’d be about it.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I hope y’all have a great weekend and I’ll be back in your inboxes come Monday. In the meantime you can still find me on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Unique Meet Cutes

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

I recently finished Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail and loved it just as much as the first one. As an added bonus, I’m now more interested in Iris’s story. In the spirit of being honest, I was not a fan of her from Delilah’s story at all. But after reading about what happened to her in Astrid’s, I’m willing to give her a chance. I’m also reading The Wishing Game for a delightful change of pace, although it seems there will be a small romance in it as well. I’ll just have to wait and see.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of Black Girl Reading Bookmark Bundle

Black Girl Reading Bundle by NspiredCreationz

I love seeing beautiful Black women reading in any and all ways. And this one has a plethora of options to choose from. So you can choose to share them amongst love ones or keep them all for yourself. I won’t judge. $15

New Releases

cover of Defensive Stance

Defensive Stance by Kasha Thompson

Deion is a promising basketball player with a temper that he can’t quite control, something that threatens his career on the court. Sloane is a single mom fighting to stay on the right path, a goal that keeps getting tested by people irritating her. When their most recent altercations land both of them in the same anger management class, they find themselves having to learn how to control their wrath as well as juggle their shared attraction.

cover o Two Sides of a Secret

Two Sides of a Secret by Kelly Cain

Despite wanting to work on political campaigns, Lauren has settled into her life of taking over her adoptive parent’s floral business. When the handsome Ben walks into the shop, she is taken aback by how attractive he is. However, what she doesn’t know is that Ben has been hired by a man running for governor to investigate Lauren and a connection that she may have to a huge skeleton in his closet. When the real motives for their orchestrated meet cute are unearthed, will Lauren trust that what they have is real?

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Today is Yellow Pig Day, something that was started back in the 1960s by two Princeton mathematics students. While there isn’t an officially recognized reason for them choosing the date or the name, some say it’s because one of the creators had a collection of yellow pigs.

While reading up on this holiday, which celebrates mathematics and the number 17, I found out some interesting bits of trivia about the number. Seventeen is a prime number, and in addition to that, is the sum of 2, 3, 5, and 7, which are the first four prime numbers. It’s the number often picked when someone is asked to pick a random number between one and 20. And the fear of the number is called heptadecaphobia.

I know one would think that, with that introduction, today’s theme would be around that number, but it’s not. Instead, it’s focused on the color yellow since it is a happy color, and happiness is something we could always use.

cover of Unclaimed

Unclaimed by Courtney Milan

Mark is known for his bachelor status as well as his virtuous nature, something that doesn’t endear him to his peers. In an attempt to tear his reputation apart, they hire courtesan Jessica to help. Desperate for the money, she takes the job, but as they grow closer, she is faced with the difficulty of choosing between being set for life or love.

cover of Queerly Beloved

Queerly Beloved by Susie Dumond*

When queer baker Amy is fired from the super-conservative bakery she works at, she takes on the unlikely role of fill-in bridesmaid. Between her new role, the support of her friends and mother, and her new love interest Charley, all seems well. Soon, though, she is faced with the difficult task of juggling all of these new things and has to figure out what she needs to do to truly move forward and be happy with herself and the people she surrounds herself with.

*Book Riot Editor

cover of The Bodyguard

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

Despite looking like a caregiver for children, Hannah is actually a bodyguard or an “Executive Protection Agent” if you want to sound technical. Her latest client is actor Jack who is being stalked by a fan. When familial duties call him home to Texas, he doesn’t want his family to know he needs a bodyguard and asks Hannah to pretend to be his girlfriend, which she reluctantly agrees to. As often is the case though, the more they pretend, the more they wonder if it could be for real.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday though and in the meantime, yes can still be found on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Let Your Geek Flag Fly!

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

I went on a bit of a book-buying spree last week. One reason behind this was wanting to support the Book Burrow, which ended up reaching their goal two days before the deadline! Another is because life has been rough as of late, just a bunch of small things that eventually snowballed into feeling like I got hit with an emotional cannonball. And while retail therapy isn’t always the best way go to, it also can’t be denied that sometimes it does help. I also am planning on going to a myth-themed mixer tomorrow at the Lark & Owl, another local indie, so that will also hopefully help to pull me up out of the mucky muck.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of Gothic Romance Pin

Gothic Romance Pin by PinsbyKalaElizabeth

I think it’s been a while since I shared a pin here so I decided to change that. This is darkly beautiful and I completely adore it. The details on it, such as the melting candles, the sparkle in the roses…it’s all glorious and perfect for any romance lover’s pin collection. $19

New Releases

cover of The Duchess Effect

The Duchess Effect by Tracey Livesay

In this sequel to American Royalty, we follow Dani and Jameson as they navigate the ups and downs of a marriage. While this is a challenge even in the best of situations and circumstances, it is further complicated with various parties wanting to use the popularity of their royal marriage for their own selfish purposes. Will Dani and Jameson be strong enough to face these hurdles together, or will it serve to drive the newlyweds apart?

cover of Against All Odds

Against All Odds by Cara Malone

As an introverted butch lesbian with very specific interests in a small town, Sage has essentially given up on love. That is until she meets Rosalie a woman who brightens up her entire life. So naturally she proposes. Once she does though, all the naysayers, including the wedding planner, come out with reasons while this won’t work. Throughout all of this, Sage and Rosalie discover that they need to band closer together to fight these negative people and focus on what is important…each other.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Today is Embrace Your Geekness Day! Now, personally, I’m someone who celebrates this every day in some way, shape, or form. Whether it is by reading, gaming, or watching a movie, everything I do tends to have a hint of geekness to it.

I would argue that all of us are this way in some way or another and that’s perfectly fine. While it can’t be argued that there is a certain conflicted feeling about society’s acceptance of people who fall under the nerd or geek umbrella now since it’s ‘cool’ to do so, I am grateful that it is not something that anyone really has to hide anymore. Because you will always be able to find someone who shares that passion with you.

And on that note, today’s romances feature just that; two people who have a shared geek-related passion who find love together. Enjoy!

New co er of Tikka Chance on Me by Suleikha Snyder

Tikka Chance on Me by Suleikha Snyder

Trucker and Pinky couldn’t be more different if they tried. After all, what does a biker and a woman who works in her family’s restaurant have in common? As it turns out, quite a bit, including a love of Marvel movies. As they continue to spend more together, they find out there is a lot of chemistry between them and wonder if there is a chance for something more there.

cover of Knit One, Girl Two

Knit One, Girl Two by Shira Glassman

Clara and Danielle first meet when the former is inspired to dye some yarn for her knitting club based on the latter’s art. As they work together to get the project done, they find out that they share a mutual love for the Captain Werewolf show and the flirting and banter via fanfic and fanart takes off from there.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. Ill be back in your inboxes next Monday with a fresh edition and in the meantime, you can still find me over on Twitter (haven’t made any type of jump yet) under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Marital Second Chances and “Teddy Bears”

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

Man, this heat can get gone cause I am over it! It is ridiculous! And I make sure to stay hydrated myself since I always tell y’all too. Still, anytime I go into the out, I am zonked when I get home. This is true even if I’m going to another inside place. I saw The Blackening on my stay-cation and hung out all day. When I returned home, I had to take a cold shower, which is really outside the norm for me on non-hair-washing days. And when I went to The Book Burrow to shop, I had to start it off cool before moving to my normal degree of hellfire hot.

Speaking of that, there are still a few more days to help! Remember you can always use their Bookshop.org link if you can’t make it in person.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of Support Indie Bookstores lanyard

Support Local Bookstores Lanyard by NewHeightsStudio

I won’t lie and say that I never shop at chain bookstores. But I am also very well aware of how important it is to support local indie bookstores and libraries more. This is a simple and elegant way of displaying that very true sentiment. $12

New Releases

cover of Play to Win

Play to Win by Jodie Slaughter

When Miriam wins the Mega Millions Lottery pot, she is overjoyed at the prospective changes that this money may bring her. However, she is also very well aware that her estranged husband has a claim to it. Not wanting to lose out on a large percentage, she contacts him with the following offer: take a one-time lump sum payment, sign the divorce papers, and then get gone. Said husband Leo looks at this as an opportunity to not get a large amount of money but instead work to woo his wife back and give their marriage a second chance.

cover of Marigold

Marigold by Melissa Brayden

When a food critic trashes her sister’s new restaurant, Marigold is prepared to go to war with the woman who is threatening a loved one’s dream. Alexis prides herself on her harsh honesty since that is what makes her stand out as a food critic. When Marigold’s reaction to her review threatens her career, she meets the other woman head-on, determined to hold her accountable. What neither woman expected was the attraction that would blossom between them and how to proceed from there.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Today is Teddy Bear Picnic Day. And if you’re a person of a certain age, as I am, I’m fairly confident that the song is now playing in your head. I’m not sorry for this although I hope that whichever version it is, it is a pleasant one. To try and help make up for the musical loop, I will recommend some romances where one of the main characters could be described as a teddy bear. Because who doesn’t love having a life-sized one?

cover of Xeni: A Marriage of Inconvenience by Rebekah Weatherspoon

Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon

In order to get their respective inheritances, Xeni and Mason have entered into a marriage of convenience at the decree of the former’s aunt’s dying wish. They intended to have the marriage in name only, since neither is looking for a love match, but we all know what they say about best-laid plans…

Yes, I know I’ve recommended this one in the past. But I’m sure we can all agree that Mason very much gives off those teddy bear vibes we’re all looking for. And who can resist a good marriage of convenience that develops into a love story? Not this gal, that’s for sure!

cover of Stuff Me

Stuff Me by Joe Satoria

Charlie and Domen’s initial meet-up is the result of a dating app while they are both aboard. It was intended to be a one-time hook-up but after that night, both find themselves thinking about the other man. And when their paths continue to cross, it seems even more obvious that the Fates are pushing them together for a HEA.

If you’ve been looking for a new book boyfriend, this list has you covered.

Test your ’80’s romcom knowledge.

I died laughing at this while fully admitting I have no idea how I would respond in the same situation.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime I can still be found over on Twitter under @PScirbe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Awkward First Encounters and “Trivial” Love

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

In a bit of personal news, The Book Burrow, one of my favorite local indie bookstores, may be in danger of needing to close down. This would be heartbreaking on multiple levels. However, there is a chance of saving it if a certain number of books can be sold by the 12th as this would give them the opportunity to find a new home. If you’re so inclined and in that area, you can always drop in to check it out or use their Bookshop.org link to support them.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

picture of Kindly Go Away tumbler

Kindly Go Away, I’m Reading Tumbler by ifyoucantsay

This is a nice way of telling strangers and loved ones alike that you would like the quiet so you can continue staying in fictional world of your current read and to leave you alone. This is available in 16 colors, three sizes, and prices start at $26.

New Releases

cover of Trivialized Pursuit

Trivialized Pursuit by Mia Heintzelman

Roxanne is co-owner for the game store Love & Games, which has just come back from the brink of closing. However, during a live interview it is revealed that the crowd-sourcing fundraiser may have been compromised. When Murphy, the brother of her co-owner, shows up while she is talking to the handsome auditor, the lines between his protectiveness and attraction to her blur and he invites her to trivia night. After that, it’s just a matter of time before the two realize they can’t ignore what is building between them.

business or pleasure book cover

Business or Pleasure by Rachel Lynn Solomon

After ghostwriter Chandler fails to get recognized by an author she helped at a book signing, it bruises her ego more than a little bit. So when she meets a charming man, she indulges in a one night stand. Unfortunately, the encounter is less than remarkable and she chalks it up to a mistake. That is until she meets actor Finn who not only is the subject of her next project, but also her one-night stand. When he finds out that their encounter wasn’t earth-shattering, he enlists her help to teach him the art of pleasure when she’s not working on his book. Soon, both begin to wonder if they can have the best of both worlds with regards to their relationship.

For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

I recently finished Role Playing which I wholeheartedly recommend especially for people who want more mature main characters in their romance novels and no third-act break-up. Like this is one of those books that I almost wish I could forget so I could read it again with a fresh mind.

Now, I am one who will reread a book. For me, there is a level of comfort in wanting to go back to an old favorite. But wanting to have a do-over on a book just to fall in love with it again? That is a smaller field to pull from. It also sounded like a great idea for some recommendations to give to y’all.

cover of Hearts on Hold

Hearts on Hold by Charish Reid

Professor Victoria and librarian John’s paths cross when Victoria approaches John to initiate a partnership between the university and library. There is an immediate attraction between them and with them working closely together for the near future, there is plenty of time for it to develop into something more.

This was my first book by this author and it quickly made her one of my favorites. It was sweet, steamy, and funny. And while I am not a fan of T.S. Eliot by any stretch of the imagination, it also gave me a new appreciation for The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock. IYKYK.

the cover of Delilah Green Doesn't Care

Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake

Delilah is a photographer who is guilted by her stepmother and stepsister Astrid into returning home to Bright Falls to do the photos for the latter’s wedding. There is no love lost between the three women, but money is money. And it also brings the opportunity to try to play on the attraction she has always had for Claire, one of Astrid’s best friends. As the two spend more together, it quickly becomes apparent that Claire isn’t exactly unaffected by Delilah either.

This is one of those books that I legit got mad at myself for putting off for so long. I loved everything about it and wish I could discover it all over again.

Check out this piece on Cat Sebastian and her approach to writing queer historical romances.

I feel this in the depths of my bookish soul.

And that’s all for me this week friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime you can still find me over on Twitter under @PScribe801, at least for now. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.