Categories
Kissing Books

Hello July!

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.

I can’t believe that it’s already July. Not only are we halfway through the summer now, but we’re also halfway through the year. Now I see what my Dad meant when he said the older you get, the more the years seem to just fly by. There’s nothing big on my docket this month that I know of other than not melting into a puddle cause of the heat. But it still boggles my mind that we’re already in July.

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 Club tote

Stay Up Late at Book Club Tote by RatherKeen

I love the vintage style that this tote is in as well as the underlying message. While we don’t do it nearly as often, there was one time that my book club would meet for hours on end. This is the perfect way to show off your love of books, book clubs, and have a way of carting the newest pick or picks around with you. $22

New Releases

cover of Kiss Me, Mi Amor

Kiss Me, Mi Amor by Alana Quintana Albertson

Enrique is the heir to the Taco King fast food and Carolina is the farm owner who he wants to go into business with, even more so after she is unimpressed with him or his name. Through a series of misunderstandings, they find themselves agreeing to fake date to please her family and along the way find that a business as well as a romantic partnership may in fact be in the cards for them.

cover of The Dane of My Existence

The Dane of My Existence by Jessica Martin

Lawyer Portia is set to take on a new role of leading the Boston office for her firm after her summer vacation to Bard’s Rest. When she gets there she discovers that her hometown’s outdoor theater is at risk of being torn down by ambitious developer Ben. As the two go toe to toe from opposite sides of the drawn line, Portia quickly realizes that she’s underestimated her opponent as well incorrectly preconceived a notion about him and what their relationship may end up being.

Totally didn’t mean for this today’s new releases to be Shakespeare inspired but I just rolled with it when I realized. For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

When pondering on a theme for today’s recommendations, I asked my spouse for advice and he suggested enemies to lovers. Since that is my favorite trope I figured that I had already done it at least once this year. But when I checked my spreadsheet I found that was not the case. I did ‘frenemies to lovers’ which is a different sub-genre altogether since it indicates that there was a friendly relationship prior to the animosity and then eventual romance.

I also know there is discourse on the use of the word ‘enemies’ versus ‘rivals’ but I typically use the former simply because it is what I grew up with. Also, whenever I hear rivals I think of two people that are in a competition with one another for something and that isn’t always the case with these types of romances although there are plenty of those out there. I won’t go too much further into that right now but it will likely be a future recommendation so be sure to keep an eye out those.

As for today, here are the recommendations for enemies to lovers.

cover of Open House

Open House by Ruby Lang

When the community garden he helped to revitalize goes up for sale, Tyson finds himself facing off against real estate agent Magda. She is determined to sell this property and help make a dent in her student debt. Even though they are on opposite sides, a connection soon develops between them that could soon evolve into love.

cover of Unexpected Goals

Unexpected Goals by Kelly Farmer

Hockey players Maisy and Jen find themselves moving from enemies to teammates when both are selected for the Boston Ice’s lineups. This means that they have to move past their own preconceptions about each other as well as work against the media pitting them against each other because of past interactions. As they begin to give each other a second chance, they realize that there may have been simmering attraction under the animosity and have to deal with this new facet to their relationship.

Here are some queer historical romances that may catch your interest.

And that’s all I have for y’all this fine Monday morning. I’ll be back in your inboxes Thursday with more romance news and recommendations. If you need a little more of me in the meantime, you can find me over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Romances Across Time and the Internet

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.

Well, my vacation time is almost at an end and as always it’s a bittersweet moment. I did enjoy the off and the recharge as well as time with loved ones. I ended up getting The Ghost Tracks from local-to-me author Celso Hurtado from Ghoulish Books and got a bunch of wonderful birthday gifts. It was a great way to ring in the new season and milestone of my life so all in all I enjoyed it.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Read With Pride sticker

Read With Pride sticker by MileLongTBRboutique

This is an idea that we should all live by. While Pride Month may almost be at an end, it doesn’t mean that you can’t continue to read these book all year around. After all, you should always aim to diversify your reading shelves, especially outside of the ‘recognition’ months for them. $4.

New Releases

cover of Role Playing

Role Playing by Cathy Yardley*

When unapologetic hermit Maggie’s equally introverted son tells her that he will work at being more social if she does, she can’t refuse the challenge. So, she decides to join an online gaming guild ran and ends up starting up a friendship. When they finally meet face to face, will they be able to get over both their mistaken first impressions and past hurts to give each other a chance?

cover of The Seven Year Slip

The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston*

Clementine’s life is perfectly fine without love until one day she walks into her kitchen and sees a Southern gentleman standing there. The man seems perfect for Clementine and someone she could easily fall in love with…if they weren’t somehow living seven years apart from each other. Even though her aunt always said that the apartment was a place where past, present, and future blended together, Clementine never believed her and now, she is at risk of losing her heart to a man who isn’t even in her timeline.

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

*These two are also on my currently reading pile

Riot Recommendations

I stumbled across this article from USA Today over the weekend which referenced a New York Post interview with retired cover model Fabio and his take on the current trend of romance heroes. Before you click there I have to warn that he isn’t supportive of this change and has a rather disgusting and archaic take on it.

This is something I could rant about for a good amount of time. But there I don’t have the space for that here and I recognize that. Which is why all I will say is that today’s recommendations are all about the cinnamon rolls to counteract that. Because this is one romance reader who just adores them to bits and it’s a sentiment that clearly is shared across the romance reading world.

Cover of Mating the Huntress

Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert

Talia is queen at cinnamon rolls and I was torn between a few of her heroes. However, I went with werewolf Luke here who, upon seeing Chastity for the first time, knew he found his mate. What he couldn’t have guessed is that she also came from a family of werewolf hunters and has picked him out to be the example to show her family she’s ready to join the hunt.

cover of Spare Me

Spare Me by Tara Sivec

Ryan is used to being the shy, good guy and it’s a role that he seems fairly content with. That is until a random kiss from Danica, the new arrival to town, knocks his socks off. Danica is looking for a new place to be herself and the kiss with Ryan was intended to be just a one-time thing. However, then they find out that they’re also roommates, which complicates things as both realize that they may want something more from the other.

Pick a romcom from decade and get a romance trope.

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

Categories
Kissing Books

Career Changes and “Forbidden” 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.

Today is the first day of my vacation and, even though I’m writing from the past, I know I’m already enjoying it simply because it’s vacation time. Between birthday gifts and a trip to Ghoulish Books, an independent horror book store that recently opened near me, I will have plenty of books to get me through the week. The excitement almost can’t be contained.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Rainbow Corner Bookmarks

Pride Corner Bookmarks by KimberlyfayeCreates

I love how bright and vibrant these corner bookmarks are. A great way to hold your place and add a splash of color to the black and white of the pages. $5

New Releases

cover of You've Been Served

You’ve Been Served by Kristen Alicia 

Thanks to the intervention from a Magic 8 Ball, Simone decides to change career paths from a chef to a lawyer. As expected, this decision comes with a lot of unplanned effects, including having to get used to a professor who seems to have it out for her, experiencing “actual” winter, and fellow classmate Silas, who in addition to being a kiss-ass, is also a great kisser. However, Simone is determined to not let any of that distract her, not even Silas, no matter how amazing his kisses are. 

cover of Love on Page Six

Love on Page Six by Claerie Kavanaugh 

Journalist Daphne goes undercover as a make-up artist for telenovela star Bridget hoping for a scoop that will help save her family’s magazine. Due largely in part to her mom/manager’s direction, Bridget has been keeping up a façade both off and on screen. When the two share a spontaneous kiss, this secret appears to be on the brink of being discussed, which will have huge repercussions for both of the women.  

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

Riot Recommendations

I was having a doozy of a time coming up with a theme for today’s recommendations. I reached out to a few friends to ask them what their favorite trope is to try to get some inspiration. The two I asked mentioned enemies-to-lovers as a top one, which you know, same. So, it’s good to know that we’re on that same bookish wavelength.

Their answers got me to thinking of the specifics of that genre though, one of which is “forbidden” love. That also lead me to the idea of “star-crossed” lovers. Of course most of us think of Romeo and Juliet whenever we hear that, even though we all know that is not really a romance at all. But the framework has been used multiple times for all types of stories.

And with that mindset, I decided that today’s recommendations would be some books that, for one reason or another, fall under that umbrella of forbidden love. Enjoy!

cover of Ramón and Julieta

Ramón and Julieta by Alana Quintana Albertson

In this spin on the tale, Ramón is the son of a fast-food entrepreneur and Julieta is a restaurant owner who is also the daughter of the woman whose taco recipe his father stole years prior. The first time they met was on Día de los Muertos where they share one scorching kiss. The next time they run into each other is when they realize this past connection as well as that they are also landlord and tenant. Is this a chance to try to mend the hurts of the past or are these two destined to remain apart?

cover of Swoon

Swoon by Lauren Rowe

Amy has been harboring a crush on Colin, her brother’s best friend. But to him, she has always just been Logan’s little sister. Colin seems determined to keep her firmly in that box, even after they share one kiss. Amy will not be deterred though, and when she moves out to California to start working for and living with Colin, she is determined to make sure that he looks at her like the woman she is.

As you can imagine, I’m subscribed to a lot of author’s newsletters to keep a pulse on deals, new releases, and the like. However, it is also important to share not-great news, which is why I was appreciative of this blog post Jae did concerning the recent AC Adams/Adam Gaffen situation.

Following that, here is a recent blog post from Tasha L. Harrison on what types of tropes to avoid in LGBTQIA fiction.

In happier news, last week I learned there is a romance bookstore by the name of Grump & Sunshine in Maine.

Here are some romances that are set in or involve bookstores or libraries.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Thursday with more updates from the romance world. In the meantime, I can be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Love At the Con

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.

We’re almost at the end of another week and I’m especially excited for this one because it’s start of a week off from my day job for my birthday. I’m not planning on doing anything huge for it though; just spending time with family and friends to celebrate it. But the idea of a week off to read and relax sounds glorious. I’ll still be writing the newsletter though, so no worries there.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of rainbow book sleeve

PRIDE Rainbow Book Sleeve by BirdieQPlusTwo

This is a gorgeous book sleeve and I adore it to pieces. What I especially love about this one is that there are multiple options for ereaders and physical books. So no matter what your reading platform preference is, you can still use it. Prices start at $22.

New Releases

cover of The Honeymoon Mixup

The Honeymoon Mix-Up by Frankie Fyre

After being left at the altar by her fiancée, Basil is determined to still enjoy the honeymoon. However, as the resort is ‘couples only’, she can’t go solo. Enter Caroline, the PI who was hired to investigate Basil. Sensing that a fake marriage is the perfect way to do it, she agrees to act as her faux wife. Once they’re at the resort, real feelings begin to develop and soon Caroline is in a position of choosing between her career and love.

cover of A Game of Romance and Ruin

A Game of Romance and Ruin by Ruby Roe

Stirling and Princess Morrigan are former lovers who are issued a challenge by the Queen. That challenge is to protect the kingdom from an impending threat or risk Morrigan losing her crown forever. The two women must overcome the betrayal of their pasts to fulfill their task, all the while ignoring the dormant feelings that are starting to reignite between them.

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

Riot Recommendations

This weekend my city is having its annual Comic Con. I personally won’t be attending — as much as I like the idea of fan cons, my slight agoraphobia means that crowds are never a good idea. It also always happens to coincide with weekends when I have plans. While I still maintain that I will attend one year, it shan’t be this one.

However it gave me a great idea for today’s recommendations: romance novels that involve a fan convention in some way. After all, if you can’t go to one, you can always read about them!

cover of What Happens At Con

What Happens at Con by Cathy Yardley

Between all the crap life has been throwing at her, Ani desperately needs a break and decides that a one-night stand at a con is just what she needs. While her partner for the evening, Abraham, is usually a short-term guy himself, something about Ani makes him want to go in for the long haul, even if Ani is content with the one encounter. He becomes determined to prove to her that just because their first interaction started off as just one night, it doesn’t mean it has to stay that way.

cover of Out of Character

Out of Character by Annabeth Albert

When Jasper’s ex-best friend Milo comes back to his life needing his help with replacing some collectible cards, the former begrudgingly agrees. However, this is on the condition is that Milo helps him with his charity ball for the children’s hospital. As the two former friends work together to help each other out, they’re also given the opportunity to work out what went sour all those years ago as well as examine what the future could hold for them.

Check out this interview with author duo Christina Lauren about their latest release The True Love Experiment.

Here are some recommendations from The Ripped Bodice for low/no spice and ace representation.

One of my current reads is The Fiancée Farce which prompted me to check out the author’s website where I found this fun quiz. So of course I took it and got Elle which wasn’t a huge surprise all things considered.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back next Monday with another edition of the newsletter. In the meantime you can find me posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Teenage Nostalgia and Summer Bingo Recommendations

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.

It’s been a while since I’ve mentioned a random thing that is bringing me joy. And that is channeling my inner semi-moody teenager by marathoning Daria on Paramount+. I loved this show and years ago, even got the entire series on DVD. Now I know streaming it when I own it may seem lazy. But something something convenience about pressing Play on an app versus hunting down the DVDs. And I’m okay with that.

I am currently reading Love, Theoretically and am enjoying it, and I’m also still working my way through You Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea and Killers of a Certain Age.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Heart Bookmarks

Pride Flag Hearts Bookmarks by ShopGiGiAndBo

You can never have too many bookmarks, especially when they are as cute as these are! Prices start at $3 and there are a total of 16 options to chose from.

New Releases

cover of Can't Let Her Go

Can’t Let Her Go by Kianna Alexander

In addition to being good friends and core components to their friend squad, Peaches and Jamie are also both at a crossroads in their lives and the choices they make will have a rippling effect on everything. Will there be time on this journey of self-discovery to move from just friends to something more?

cover of Sunshine and Silk Boxers

Sunshine and Silk Boxers by Joi Jackson

Lingerie designer Gia has moved back home to Kissing Springs ready to jumpstart her boutique that utilizes 3D printing technology. She enlists the help of her best friend Winston for this endeavor. Winston agrees, viewing this as the opportunity to let Gia know he wants to be more than friends. However, there is another man from Gia’s past who has moved to Kissing springs and decided he wants more than one night from her. Will Gia be able to choose between the two or will she end up heading back to the big city?

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

Riot Recommendations

As mentioned in a previous edition, The Ripped Bodice recently announced their summer Bingo card for 2023. Check out the fun short they put together with this announcement.

Now I’ll be honest in saying I probably can’t help get all the squares since I’m blanking on options for some of topics. For the life of me I cannot think of a book where there was a legit fainting couch. But I can help y’all with at last two of them with today’s recommendations.

cover of Along Came Love

Along Came Love by Tracey Livesay

Square: It Was Supposed to Be One Night

When India has a brief two-day fling with Michael, she thinks it is just that. Months later she finds herself pregnant with his child and in jail in San Francisco with no one else to call for help but him. When Michael arrives to bail her out and finds out he’s the father of the baby, he insists on her staying until the baby is born. Soon, the close proximity reminds both parties of what brought them together in the first place and that this is the perfect opportunity for a second chance.
Okay this one may be pushing the envelope a bit since the affair lasts two nights, but I think an argument could be made.

cover of Bitter Spirits

Bitter Spirits by Jenn Bennett

Aida is the rare performing medium in that she can actually summon and communicate with the departed. Winter is a bootlegger who has suddenly found himself on the wrong side of a hex that makes him a magnet for ghosts. Aida is called in to help get rid of the spirits as well as work with Winter to find out who cursed him. As they work together, an attraction soon begins to develop between the two of them and they know that it is something they will have to discuss when all of this is done with.

In somber news, prolific romance author Julie Garwood has passed away.

If you’re needing more sizzle in your life, these romance novels may be perfect for you.

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

Categories
Kissing Books

Forced Proximity Romances

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.

Y’all, I had a great time at the Passport Party this last weekend. I got to mingle with other like-minded book lovers, played trivia and found out some interesting facts about the various bookstores that were visited, and my friend ended up winning a bookish goodie bag in a raffle. All in all, it was a great time and here’s hoping it will happen again next year for IBD or maybe even Bookstore Romance Day, which is the third week of August. I’m already gearing up my wallet for that!

Before we dive into romancelandia, are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Rainbow Library Pin

Libraries Are for Everyone Pin by GoodGoodCat

I’ve talked many times before about my love of libraries and honestly I could go on forever about it. I love that this pin shows that libraries and the books are for everyone across all spectrums, despite certain people who, in the U.S. at least, are actively trying to get rid of anything that isn’t white and heterosexual. Show off your support with this pin. $11

New Releases

cover of Mr. One and Only

Mr. One and Only by Sharon C. Cooper

Genesis knows that dating her boss wasn’t a good idea. But she couldn’t help the temptation of the handsome Noah and then, to top that off, she had to go and fall in love. When Noah is ready to move their relationship to the next level and proposes, another man from her past comes back into her life. Genesis, caught between the two men, turns down Noah’s proposal to try to focus on what her next move should be. But when an unexpected development arises, she knows Noah is the one for her and hopes that it isn’t too late for them.

cover of Romancing the Gorgon

Romancing the Gorgon by Tallie Rose

When witch Lettie’s grandmother dies, she expects that her half of the Stone and Sorcery Lodge will pass onto her. However, there is no mention of it at all, leaving Lettie befuddled. Months later she is called back to visit the town lawyer and runs into Chandler, her Gorgon ex-girlfriend. Chandler’s grandmother is the other owner of the inn and has left them both half with the stipulation that neither can sell their half for six-months. Close quarters and unresolved feelings seem to be the perfect ingredients for these two women to consider a second chance at their love, with the added bonus of running a successful business together.

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

Riot Recommendations

I took this fun quiz over the weekend to find out which Sapphic Romance Trope I was and got just one bed. This is just a super specific version of the forced proximity trope, which is always a fun one. So I decided that would be a great theme for today’s recommendations, since it has been a while since I’ve done that trope.

The Bride Test Book Cover

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

Esme has the opportunity to come to America and make a better life for her and her daughter. The only thing she has to do is convince Khai to marry her. The snag there is that Khai is certain he can’t feel love and ignores her when his mother moves her into his house. However, as the days pass the two find themselves drawing closer and closer to one another and wonder if their somewhat inauspicious beginning is the perfect set up for a lasting love.

cover of Hairpin Curves

Hairpin Curves by Elia Winters

When Megan is invited to a wedding in Quebec, her ex-best friend Scarlett offers to take the trip with her and be her plus one. Even though Scarlett has had a crush on Megan for years, she would be happy to be back in her life platonically. As often happens with long drives, the two women begin to talk and find the little joys in their adventure. And when a snowstorm forces them to seek shelter and wait it out, the close proximity opens the opportunity for their re-emerging friendship to develop into something more.

Queer kissing books!

The Ripped Bodice has released the card for their 7th Annual Summer Romance Bingo game.

Another surprisingly accurate quiz for yours truly.

And that’s all I have for y’all this week. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime I can be found floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Pride Mugs, FWB, and Secret Identities

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.

After staying stagnate for a bit, I feel like I’m on a book-finishing spree. In the last week I have finished Lone Women, That Summer Feeling, and Her Big City Neighbor. I’ve also been keeping fairly steady with trying to keep my intake and outtake balanced since I am both DNFing and unhauling regularly. Go me on keeping up with the bookish goals!

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it. If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Read Queer Books mug

Read Queer Books Mug by BookishlyUK

We’re almost halfway through Pride month, which is why I’ve been trying to boost a lot of that swag lately. However, this sentiment is true all year ’round and genre wide, which means that you can use it for all your preferred beverages no matter what month it is. $17

New Releases

cover of Mr. Play for Keeps

Mr. Play for Keeps by Kimmie Ferrell

When Nathaniel finds himself suddenly in need of a vendor for D.C.’s four-day long Juneteenth celebration, he turns to his FWB Stephanie, owner of her own holistic skin care company. Not only does he think she would make a great addition to the line up, but it will also give him the chance to try to prove to her that their temporary arrangement would be even sweeter as a permanent one.

cover of Love, Theoretically

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

In addition to her job as an adjunct professor, Elise also has a somewhat lucrative side hustle as posing as the fake girlfriend for people who need it. Her worlds seem destined to collide when Jack, the man who is the head of physics at MIT and who ruined her mentor’s career, also turns out to be the brother of her favorite client. And the professional friction between them seems to run the risk of developing into something more like love.

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

Riot Recommendations

Last week I went out to dinner at a local wine bar with one of my friends and, as often happens with us, we got to talking about everything, including romance novels. She’s one of my longest friends and we discovered a love of romance novels together back in middle school, something which has stayed solid since.

Back when we started reading romances, the genre was nowhere near as robust as it is now. Presently, there are so many options out there that there is something practically for everyone, even if it may not be for us personally. One of my personal struggles is the dark romance genre. As I told my friend, I can’t do “dark;” the furthest I can usually go is “dusk,” and even then it’s pushing it.

However, I know that a lot of readers love dark romances and I’ve never been one to yuck someone’s yum. So, with that in mind, I’m going to recommend some dark romances for the readers that love it or want to dip their toe in that.

*Please* be sure to check for the various trigger and content warnings, though since, with it being dark romance, there will be more than usual.

cover of Captive in the Underworld

Captive in the Underworld by Lianyu Tan

This is a dark Sapphic spin on the Hades and Persephone myth. When Persephone, away from her tyrannical mother’s grasp, is pulled into the Underworld, she quickly discovers she has traded one prison for another. However, beneath Hades controlling outer layer is a woman who yearns for romantic love.

cover of Wretched

Wretched by Emily McIntire

Evelina is the brains, brawn, and botanical mind behind her family’s drug empire, which makes her a Jacqueline of all trades. Needing one night off from the pressure of that life style, she engages in a one-night stand. Afterwards, she’s determined to get back to her life but what she doesn’t know was that her one-night stand was undercover DEA agent Nicholas, who is determined to take down her family’s empire no matter the cost.

Here’s one for my Taylor Swift fans.

If you’ve been feeling like romantasy, then this list has you covered.

Match the quote with the rom-com.

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

Categories
Kissing Books

Bookish Pride Flags

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.

I’m really excited for this weekend. I mean, I am typically excited for any weekend honestly because it’s a break from work but I’m even more so for this weekend because I get to attend the passport party Lark & Owl, one of my local indies. You may remember me mentioning it in a past newsletter, but just in case a reminder is needed, it was something that they created for Independent Bookstore Day to encourage readers to visit as many indie bookstores as they could. Well my friend and I managed to get all of them so we get to party! *confetti*

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Flag Book Stickers

Subtle Pride Stickers by therainbowbookshelf

I am slowly growing back into the love of stickers that I had when I was younger. Although to be fair, I’m not sure I ever really grew out of it. I just stopped allowing myself the joy of collecting them. In any regard, here are some stickers to show off your pride and love of reading. $4

New Releases

cover of Mr. Straight Up No Chaser

Mr. Straight Up No Chaser by Sherelle Green

After being selected to be Mr. Black Chicago, Porter is even more determined to make his city’s Blackout Fest the best Juneteenth celebration ever. This means he will not accept any deviations from his pre-determined plans. However, body positive vlogger Alanna is equally as determined to have her input listened to, which results in the two butting heads even as the attraction simmers. But when secrets from the past threaten Alanna’s present, Porter may be the only one who could help make or break it.

cover of Keep Your Witches Close

Keep Your Witches Close by Colette Rivera

When a string of witch disappearances brings Authority Witch Mea to Paranormal Investigator’s Juliet’s town, the former begrudgingly resigns herself to working with the latter. They have a past that Juliet is not willing to unpack just yet but Mea, in addition to wanting to protect Juliet, is committed to getting the other woman to at least like her as a friend once again, but hopefully something more.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Best Friend’s Day! I didn’t even know there was a day for that, though I should have at least suspected there would be since there is a day for almost every other relationship out there.

I strongly feel that platonic friendships are super important and would argue that this is even more so true as we get older. This became even more apparent to me during the lockdown of 2020.

This sentiment holds true even in romance novels. Even though the focus is on the romantic relationship, the platonic ones play just as important a part in the development of the story and the character. They are the characters who are willing to do anything to protect the main character’s feelings but will also not hesitate to call them to the carpet when they are the ones that need to grovel.

And when we get to see the majority of the friend group fall in love? It’s even better. So, for your reading considerations, here are the first books in a series where we get to follow a group of friends as they fall in love.

cover of The Boyfriend Project

The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon

After finding out via a live tweet that she was being three-timed by the man she was seeing, Samiah and her new found friends decide to enter into a ‘no dating’ rule. Of course, just when she decides to focus solely on her career is when the handsome Daniel enters her life. But there is more to him than meets the eye and between that and her vow, this love story could be over before it even started.

cover of Rescued Heart

Rescued Heart by Georgia Beers

Due to how organized and detail-oriented she is, Lisa is in charge of all things adoption-related at Junebug Farms. It also doesn’t hurt that she can keep her emotional cards close to her chest. This is challenged though when she meets the newest volunteer dog-walker, Ashley, who seems to be the complete opposite of Lisa. And we all know what they say about opposites attracting…

Here are some of the romances that readers are loving right now.

This dessert quiz will tell you if someone has a crush on you or not. I am not sold on the science behind it but I totally got a craving for sweets after!

And that’s all I have for you today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh edition. In the meantime you can find me lurking on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

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Kissing Books

Have You Hugged Your Cat Today?

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 the last newsletter, I mentioned how June was when a lot of people were trying to reevaluate and/or catch up on their reading goals of the year — a boat I am also firmly in. Numbers wise, I am at 27/52 books read, which is six books ahead of my goal; so pretty pleased there. Speaking of reading materials, one of the books I’m currently reading is That Summer Feeling, which was released last week, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I agree with this sentiment on the vibes of the book.

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it. If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Flag Book Earrings

Pride Flag Book Earrings by RaleighButtonCompany

These rainbow bookish earrings are a perfect way to celebrate Pride month and the love of reading. $12

New Releases

cover of Mickey Chamber Shakes it Up

Mickey Chambers Shakes it Up by Charish Reid

Mickey is an adjunct instructor who decides to take on a part-time job at a local bar to help ends meet. Diego is the owner of said bar — which makes him her boss — as well as a student in the online writing class Mickey is teaching that summer. This set-up, plus their grumpy/sunshine pairings, could make for a difficult relationship all around, but Diego can’t deny the way Mickey brings life to the bar and makes it a popular place to hang out. And neither can ignore the attraction simmering between them.

cover of Love is All

Love is All: Volume 6 by Xio Axelrod, Piper Malone, Susan Scott Shelley, Chantal Mer, and others

This collection of short stories is the next installment in the series highlighting stories from and about people from the LGBTQ+ community and the love they find. Be sure to pick this up ASAP since it will only be available for a limited time.

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

Riot Recommendations

Yesterday was Hug Your Cat day. Now I know that some cat owners may say that is something that you do at your own risk because they’re not always known for being down with physical signs of affection, which I know can be heartbreaking for some people, me included. I’ve always said that if I get a cat, I need one that will be okay with snuggling. I’m not going to Elmira the poor thing, but I would like occasionally cuddles without walking away looking like I got into a fight with a paper shredder.

However, it is still a holiday of sorts, so in honor of it, let’s highlight some romances with cats on the cover who may or may not always play apart of the plot. Enjoy!

cover of Sweethand by N.G. Peltier

Sweethand by N.G. Peltier

After a devastating and public break-up, Cherisse has sworn off dating for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, even with her sister’s impending wedding as a distraction, her mother still works to try to set her up with every eligible bachelor. Complicating this is the fact that Keiran, a man who she has butted heads with in the past, is part of the wedding party on the groom’s side, which means she’ll be seeing more of him. Despite seeming to be completely not into him, one rainy night leads to them connecting on a level neither thought possible, and has them wondering what comes next.

cover of A Cat Cafe Christmas

A Cat Café Christmas by Codi Gary

If animal lover Kara can’t find a way to get her cat café out of the red and get more cats adopted, her dreams will sink before they have a chance to flourish. Enter marketing guru Ben, who, despite being a bit overbearing, has a great plan to help Kara get out of the hole. All they have to do is remember to keep that shaky wall between business and pleasure in place. That is a task easier said than done, especially when they start to get to know each other better.

Pick your preference and get a ’90’s heartthrob.

Congratulations to the Ripped Bodice on opening a new chapter.

Love’s Sweet Arrow also has a new space as well.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh edition. In the meantime I can be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Happy Pride Month!

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.

It’s the start of Pride Month y’all!! *confetti* I’m super excited for it this month because I am going to try to actually go to at least one event. Who knows how my Cancerian homebody self will feel when the time comes! The goal is just to try so there’s that.

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed in it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Queer Romance Book Club decal

Queer Romance Book Club Decal by CalypsoBelleDesigns

Let’s kick off Pride Month with this awesome multipurpose decal that can be used to showcase your love for all queer romance. Since it is a download, you get to pick where and how to display it and there are options for multiple swag upgrades. That is what you call a win/win situation. $3

New Releases

cover of Even If the Sky is Falling by Taj McCoy; illustration of a Black woman and man kissing under a starry sky

Even If the Sky is Falling edited by Taj McCoy

In this anthology that features some popular names in romance, the possible end of the world is the perfect setup for romance to bloom between six couples who think that this may be their last night. Featuring rivals to lovers, second chances, and other popular tropes, there is sure to be something for everyone in this one!

the cover of That Summer Feeling

That Summer Feeling by Bridget Morrissey

Recently divorced Garland and her sister decide to do go to an adult sleepaway camp both to help Garland settle into her single life and to have an experience they didn’t as children. There she runs into Mason, a man she had a premonition about years ago after her wedding and wonders if the stars are setting her up for a new romance. However, despite what her earlier vision seemed to indicate, she finds herself being more drawn to Stevie, Mason’s sister and her bunkmate, and wonders if she misunderstood what she saw all those years ago.

the cover of An Island Princess Starts a Scandal

An Island Princess Starts a Scandal by Adriana Herrera

Manuela happily accepts an invitation to show her paintings at the 1889 Exposition Universelle, determined to have one final fun summer before being locked in a loveless marriage. Duchess Cora is equally determined to convince Manuela to sell her some property she is owner of. Manuela counters her offer with one of her own; she’ll sell if Cora will spend the summer with her in Paris. As the two women spend more time together, they connect over their love of art and find themselves falling for each other. The end of summer is fast approaching though which could prove to be the end of the affair, even though neither really wants it to.

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

Riot Recommendations

In addition to being Pride Month, June also marks the almost halfway point between the year. Notice I said almost since I know that, counting by days, that July 2nd is the actual halfway mark. But in terms of months, a solid argument could be made for June.

Getting back on track, this is the month that some readers revaluate their reading goals for the year and/or check their progress on challenges, such as Book Riot’s own Read Harder. I haven’t really dedicated recommendations to this yet mainly due to the fact that it’s sometimes hard to find a romance novel that fits the prompt. But I did some digging and was able to find some possible candidates if you’re still looking to fill some of those slots!

The Other Man cover

The Other Man by Farhad J. Dadyburjor; narrated by Ariyan Kassam

Read Harder Task 7: Listen to an audiobook performed by a person of color of a book written by an author of color.

Ved is a closeted gay man as well the unmarried heir to his father’s business empire. When he is still unmarried at 38, he agrees to let his mother set up an arranged marriage for him. Of course that is also when he meets handsome American traveler, Carlos, and has to struggle with either giving into the expectations of his family or staying true to what he really wants.

cover of An Acquired Taste

An Acquired Taste by Kelly Cain

Read Harder Task 13: Read an author local to you

In this first book of the Everheart Brothers of Texas trilogy, we meet Knox and Rowan, culinary school rivals who are now competitors on a reality cooking competition. However, there is more than just the kitchen heating up as they work through the various competitions and recipes, leaving them wondering if love is also on the menu. I may be cheating a bit since this only works for those in Central Texas, but it still sounds like an engaging read!

Pick a song and get your soulmate’s first initial. This was another surprisingly accurate one for me.

Here are some “stuck together” romances if that is your preference.

And that’s all I have for y’all this week. It’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming next week, which means you can expect to hear from me again on Monday. In the meantime, I can be found on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!