Author: P.N. Hinton

Unexpected Trope Changes and Geeky Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date January 6, 2023

Sponsored by

Happy Monday y’all! Welcome back to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN Hinton, your guide through the world of romance. Here we are at the beginning of a new year and, although there have been some interesting developments already, overall I think it started off…okay.

Mine was fairly decent at least. I spent most of the first recovering from too much champagne, although I did remember to eat my black-eyed peas and collard greens. The second was my anniversary, so we took our annual trip to The Cheesecake Factory and Barnes & Noble where I picked up a few books including Mistakes Were Made and The Violin Conspiracy. I haven’t started them yet since I’m still working my way through Back in a Spell, Legends & Lattes, and The Last Party as “free reads,” meaning they’re not being tracked on my spreadsheet or Goodreads.

Speaking of reading challenges, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our writers.

Bookish Goods

I’d Rather Be Reading keychain by Meaggie Moos

This is an entire mood. In almost every single situation, I’d rather be reading, even if I get distracted by my phone whenever I get the opportunity of reading unencumbered. Oh well…such is life. This is priced at $9.

New Releases

Exes and O’s by Amy Lea

In an attempt to find the love of her life, romance novel reader Tara decides to revisit her exes in the hopes of finding a second-chance romance. She enlists the help of her roommate Trevor for this task, which he begrudgingly agrees to. As they spend more time together, they begin to look at each other in a different light and Tara wonders if maybe the “they were roommates” trope is actually the key to her HEA.

Loves and Lattes by Karis Walsh

Cat café owner Bonnie and wedding planner Taryn’s paths cross when one of the latter’s clients wants to host their nuptials in Bonnie’s establishment. Bonnie is reluctant at first until Taryn promises this will end in a mass adoption and new forever home for some of the felines. As the women work together to do just that, a relationship blooms between them that could prove to be so much more.

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

Riot Recommendations

Originally, the theme of today’s recommendations was going to be opposites attract. That is, until I realized how vast of a pool that is. It may not seem that way but it’s true. Even the ever popular grumpy/sunshine set up is just a more specific description of that type of match up.

Thinking of that got me to thinking about another one of the specific pairings I’ve always enjoyed under that umbrella: the geek or nerd and the jock pair up. Of course, in adult romances, it’s not always quite like that, as the geek part can be paired up with any other different personality trait. But they’re still fun. With that said, onto the recommendations!

Joystick: A Blerd Grrl Romance, Book 1 by Nikki Woolfolk

After life-long gamer and nerd Vivi’s reputation is shattered online, she returns home to recoup. There, she agrees to pose as her brother at his job while he recovers from a sickness. She plans to just go in and keep her head low until her brother is healed. Then she discovers that his boss is the handsome Oliver, a man she had just recently flirted with and things get a bit more complicated.

Crazy for a Geek Girl by Nicolette Dane

When a huge work project results in Netty having to contact her company’s IT department, she is left breathless when the beautiful Henry is the one to answer the call. After a passion-filled encounter, Netty is left wondering if this unexpected technology issue is going to be the catalyst for an even more unexpected romance.

And that’s all I have for you today. We’re back to our normal broadcasting schedule now which means I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with another update. In the meantime, I can still be found floating around over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until we meet again, happy reading and stay hydrated!

PN Hinton

Kissing Books

Welcome to 2023, Romance Fans

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date January 4, 2023

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome to the first Kissing Books newsletter of 2023! Its been a week since we last met and a whole new year happened in that time. I hope that you spent New Year’s Eve and Day the way you wanted. I’m speaking ‘from the past’ but I’m confident that no matter what, I made sure to eat my black-eyed peas and collard greens to start the year off right.

The start of a new year always feels like the first blank page of a journal. I have no idea what revelations, challenges, changes, or other developments will come out at the days/pages turned, but I also remind myself that a new one is the opportunity to do better.

One thing I’m going to do this year is be kinder to myself in all regards, especially in reading. I still plan on challenging myself and reading a set number of books in the coming year, but I will also not be worried about how long it takes me to finish any book or how many are on my “Currently Reading” list. At the end of the day, I’m my only competitor in these challenges. However, I am also going to be mindful of making sure my book intake and consumption is more balanced because wow does the price tag and TBR pile add up quickly.

And speaking of reading challenges, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

Seepy Grey Book Cat by BiblioChicShop

I don’t know about y’all but after the chaos of last year, especially those last few busy weeks, I am identifying so hard with this sweet kitty. I would love to curl up and just sleep for like a week surrounded by books. But, since that isn’t an option, this pin that showcases what I’d rather be doing will suffice. $13

New Releases

Mister Musician by B. Love

When Saint and Harmony meet, both are fresh off break-ups where the person they loved betrayed them terribly. Neither are willing to open their hearts again, yet they find themselves being drawn to one another. Will this be a new chance for both of them or will the heartbreak of the past doom them before a new relationship can even start?

Back in a Spell by Lana Harper

After essentially being left at the altar, Nineve Blackmoore reluctantly agrees to go on a date with nonbinary bar owner Marty. It goes about as well as can expected, especially when Marty finds out she’s part of the family that has been trying to buy the bar out from under him. After their date, when Marty begins to develop magical powers, something that typically only happens to non-magical people when they join a magical family, they two must work together to figure out what is going in and to discover more about the undeniable attraction between them.

Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood

In this collection of short stories, we are introduced to scientists Mara, Sadie, and Hannah who remain friends after they graduate. We also get to see them as they interact and fall in love with men who at first seem to be their rivals but end up being so much more. This is a collection of Hazelwood’s previously published novellas, Under One Roof, Stuck With You, and Below Zero.

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

Riot Recommendations

Over the last few weeks I have been really focusing on reading cozy stories because the end of the year was wild and I just needed a mental break. That was my goal and I’ve pretty much kept to it — well, with the exception of How to Sell a Haunted House which I am enjoying, but my goodness it has pushed almost every single one of my ‘things that squidge me out in horror’ buttons.

That said, two of the books that I read did align with the cozy aspect: Legends & Lattes and Loathe to Love You. It got me to thinking that some cozy, low-angst romance may be the perfect way to start off the new year. So, without further delay, here are the first recommendations for 2023.

The Stand-In by Lily Chu

When Gracie is mistaken by the paparazzi for a famous Chinese actress, Wei Fangli, the latter offers her a job as her stand-in for an extraordinary amount of money. Not in a position to refuse, Gracie takes the job, and suddenly finds herself in the limelight with the handsome and equally infuriating Sam. However, as they spend more time together, her heart softens towards the man, leaving her in a position where she could end up losing everything.

Nothing to Lose by Clare Lydon

When an unexpected flood leaves grumpy Scarlet and other people homeless, bubbly Mayor Joy opens up her home to the unhoused and ends up with Scarlet as her housemate. Despite their differences the two strike up a friendship that could be more. But will it be enough to last when Scarlet is able to return to her home?

Here are some of the romances headed our way this winter.

And that’s all for today my friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh new edition full of new releases in romance and recommendations. In the meantime, I can still be found over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Surprise Hits, Warm Socks, and Highlander Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 28, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello again and welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter! It’s been a week since we last spoke. Regardless of if you celebrated or observed any of the holidays, I hope that this past week wasn’t an overly stressful one for you.

This is always an interesting time of the year since we’re so close to the new year. I think a majority of us, based on how the last two years have gone, are understandably gun shy about vocalizing high hopes for 2023. However, it is also worth noting that you’ve only truly lost at something when you’ve completely given up hope. And, as small of a kernel as it may be, I still have some. I hope that, whatever challenges you’re facing or will be facing, that thought process helps you as well.

It’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

If You Can Read This, Please Bring Me a Book socks by WineALittleGifts

After the hustle and bustle of family time, I’m sure we all feel this deep within our souls. Plus who doesn’t love a good pair for socks? I know that I have really begin to appreciate and collect socks in the last few years, which is funny since as a child I loathed wearing them. These come in five colors. $17+

New Releases

Never Cross a Highlander by Lisa Rayne

Ailsa’s plans to escape enslavement are shattered at the arrival of Kallum, the infamous Dubh Mahoun or Black Devil. Unbeknownst to her and everyone else, Kallum uses this fearsome persona as a front to help free enslaved people. His secret identity is at risk of being exposed unless he accompanies Ailsa home. Which would be easier if she weren’t fighting him every step of the way and if there wasn’t an attraction brewing between them.

The Bookstore’s Secret by Makenna Lee

Nicole takes a job in the café at a local bookstore to help pass the time while waiting to hear about another job opportunity. Unbeknownst to her is that her boss is none other than her first crush, Liam. And, despite his avoidance of small town gossip and being set up, single dad Liam is finding himself very attracted to the widowed Nicole. Will he take a chance on romance again or continue to keep his walls up?

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

Riot Recommendations

The two last recommendations I have for y’all this year are still some of my best of 2022, but these are the ones that surprised me with exactly how much I enjoyed them.

Now, I never go into a book expecting to hate it. Because honestly, if that was the case, I wouldn’t bother starting it. Worst case, I expect to not love it or just feel “meh” about it. But, having been let down in the past by highly anticipated or hyped books, I do temper my expectations to just enjoying the book and not regretting the hours spent reading it.

Following that train of thought, it stands to reason that there are some books that blow me away with how much I enjoyed them. I love those because then I can truly gush about a book when recommending it. And that’s why my recommendations today are two of of the books that pleasantly surprised me with how much I enjoyed them and why.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches cover

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

Based on the elevator pitch for this one, I was expecting to at least moderately enjoy it. I didn’t expect to fall in love with everyone in this book — with the exception of the solicitor, of course — in a unique way. Found family is a big draw in a lot of genres, and it really shows here, as we get to watch Mika finally find a place and people who accept her for what she is and don’t have any nasty ulterior motives to keeping her in their lives. If you haven’t picked it up yet, be sure to do it soon, because it is amazing.

Two Wrongs Make a Right by Chloe Liese

I enjoyed this for multiple reasons. First, that it took a not quite as popular Shakespeare play and managed to update it quite nicely. Second, the couple in the book zodiac signs matched my spouse and I, even if he’s not a typical Capricorn. And third…it was just that good. I loved the banter and the slow burn between Jamie and Bea and how they eventually fell into love. It’s a great story and it leaves openings for at least two other books.

And that’s all for today. Again, it will be another week before you hear from me, due to the holiday observance on January 2nd. But after that, it will be back to two sends a week! In the meantime you can find my floating over on Twitter under @PScribe801. See y’all in the new year!

Kissing Books

All the Christmas Reads!!!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 21, 2022

Sponsored by

Season Greetings, romance lovers! We’re only three sleeps away from Christmas and, even with my Grinch-like tendencies, I have to admit I’m a little excited. I’m one who gets joy from watching others open gifts I picked out for them, so I am really looking forward to that.

Speaking of Christmas, I wanted to give a heads up that there will not be a newsletter on the 26th or January 2nd. There will be one on the 29th and the January 5th but the other two days are when Book Riot is observing the associated holiday. After that though, it will be back to hearing from me twice a week.

Also, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of Books Make You Bright Sweatshirt

Books Make You Bright Sweatshirt by USACustomTee

Not only is this true, but it is also festive which makes it a win/win in my book. Now, I don’t get a lot of sweatshirt weather out in my neck of the woods but still this may be something to keep away for when it does happen. This comes in eleven colors and the prices start at $25.

New Releases

Baby, It’s Snow Outside by Shani Greene-Dowdell

When his sick grandmother refuses to see any doctor other than hers, Ishmael decides he has no choice but to go to Dr. Miracle’s house for help. It’s attraction at first sight for both of them and neither can deny it. Will these two lonely hearts find true love or will their affair end before the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve?

Set the Record Straight by Hannah Bonam-Young

When life-long friends Clara and Evan both find themselves in a situation where they need a fake girlfriend, they decide to fill that role for each other. However, as the fake dating commences, Clara begins to develop romantic feelings for her friend, leaving her to wonder if there is an undiscovered and unexplored side of herself. And Evan, who has had a secret crush on her friend for a while, worries she that she may have made a mistake playacting at something that she really wants.

Please note that this book contains mention of homophobia, religious oppression, and intolerance from family members.

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

Riot Recommendations

With Christmas a few days away, I decided that today’s recommendations would be Christmas romances. I know we’re just a few days away from the holiday and hopefully these will be a nice way to relax in the coming days. And they’re both relatively short, so they should make for quick reading.

Dawn with a Duke by Erica Ridley

After Belle’s chaperone falls ill on the way to a party, she must assume the role of a widow in order to protect her reputation as the daughter of a duke. And she decides that a little harmless flirtation with the handsome Calvin wouldn’t hurt. When they find themselves snowbound though, and real identities are discovered, both are left wondering what will happen when the snow melts away?

The Mistletoe Motive by Chloe Liese *

Gabriella and Jonathan are co-workers who can’t stand each other. When they find out that the independent bookstore they work at is having money issues, they worry that means one of them will be laid off. A bet is made that whoever has the least sales in December will voluntarily resign and the competition is off. However, as the months progresses, Gabby begins to see a softer side of Jonathan and wonders if there is more to him than meets the eye.

*I’ve linked the paperback version of this book. The ebook version of this title is a Kobo exclusive and can be purchased here.

And that’s all for today y’all. Remember, it will be one week before you get another newsletter from me since there won’t be one sent on the 26th. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, any other holiday or not at all, I hope that the next week is awesome for you. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.
— PN Hinton

Kissing Books

Christmas Cups and Sapphic Recs!!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 16, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, and I’ll be your guide through the rollercoaster world of romance. I hope that your weekend was great. My Book Club had our annual Book-mas party and, as always, it was a great time. We always have too much food, so no one leaves hungry, which is always a good sign!

It’s also Winter Break for the Teenager which is awesome. He has some much needed dental work scheduled for Wednesday, which is less than for sure. Since he has a history of anxiety with dental work, he is going under anesthesia. He’s been under before but this is the first time he will likely remember it. So, if you could send some well wishes towards my not-quite-so-little-anymore-guy, I’d appreciate it.

Guess what y’all? It’s time for the 2023 Read Harder Challenge! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletters tailored to each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our writers.

Bookish Goods

All I Want for Christmas is Smut Tumbler by EdgyPhoenixDesignz

I’ll be honest, I don’t enjoy the earworm that gets stuck in my head, as I do not love that song. But I do love this cup and how honest it is. Plus, it’s festive and upfront about one’s love of smut, two things that I appreciate. If you’re wanting to add this to your reusable cup collection, cause let’s be honest we all have at least five, it can be yours for just $25

New Releases

A Betrayed Kind of Love by Adesuwa O’man Nwokedi

Alero and Bonjua were high school sweethearts that seemed destined to stay together forever. That is until their relationship crumbles, leaving Alero’s reputation and heart shattered. When the opportunity to get revenge on him comes at their 20-year high school reunion, she is determined to take it. But they will soon both discover why they say that the line between love and hate is thin.

My Holiday Love by Reba Bale

When Ashley finds herself in sudden and desperate need of a new roommate, she takes a chance on Hannah, the new barista at the local coffee shop. Even though they’re as different as night and day, the two hit it off and end up spending Christmas together at home. This leads to an eggnog infused kiss and leaves both women wondering do they want to be just roommates or more?

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

Riot Recommendations

I really gravitated towards Sapphic romances a lot this year. A good number of the romances I read were ones where one or both of the romantic parties involved identified as something other than straight, which still makes them a non-heterosexual couple. Because, as we all know, even if someone is in a “straight passing” relationship, they are in no way any less queer. But by far the WLW books took the cake.

That leads to today’s recommendations: some of my favorite WLW books that were published and that I read this year. Rather than give a synopsis, I’m going to say what made these books stand out to me after a year of reading.

D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding by Chencia C. Higgings

I know I recommended this earlier this year, but it’s worthy of being recommended all the time. I loved this book and devoured it because I felt that D’Vaughn and Kris balanced each other well. I loved watching them fall in love with each other.

The Romance Recipe by Ruby Barrett

Amy and Sophie made me swoon in more ways than one. Their chemistry practically sizzled off the page and the way they stuck up for each other, even when they were mad at each other, warmed my heart. Just wonderful!

Calling the Shots by Kelly Farmer

Okay, so this one may seem like cheating since it was just released, but I stand by it. While I enjoyed all the books in the Out on the Ice series, this was my favorite, likely because I saw a lot of myself in Tierney. I enjoyed seeing her and Regan go toe-to-toe on everything, all the while falling in love.

And here are some exciting LGBTQ+ books headed our way in the new year!

That’s all for today, but don’t worry. Thursday will bring a fresh newsletter to your inbox. And, if you want to see snippets of me before then, I can be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated!

Kissing Books

Holiday and Foodie Romances!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 14, 2022

Sponsored by

Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter! We’re almost at the end of the work week, halfway through the month of December, and 10 days from Christmas. That still blows my mind. That said, I hope that you’ve gotten most, if not all, your shopping done. I tend to be fairly frugal even at this time of year, especially since my spouse and son have their birthdays in January and February respectively. So, I don’t want to buy all the awesome stuff now.

I’m still working my way through Kiss Her Once For Me. On the complete opposite side of the spectrum, I started How To Sell a Haunted House because why not? After those two I think I’m going to wind down from recording what I’m reading so I can start 2023 fresh.

And speaking of 2023, it’s time for the Read Harder Challenge! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

Booklovers Ornament by salvagemevintage

We put up our tree this last weekend (early for us!) which is why this cute little ornament is getting a light shone on it today. Putting it up is important to the Teenager and I don’t know how much longer that will last. So, I still endeavor to do it every year with a smile on my face. Whether or not you’re in the same boat, this is a great way to display your love for reading. Price is set at either $13 or $18, depending on whether or not you want it personalized.

New Releases

A Little Holiday Spirit by Lesandra Moore

Fresh off a breakup, Spirit is not looking forward to the holidays with her family. So, she decides to take her roommate up on an offer to go home with her instead and celebrate with her family. What she doesn’t know is that she will be sharing a room with a complete, albeit handsome, stranger.

I Saw Mommy Kissing the Nanny by Shannon O’Connor

When grad student Morgan goes to her job interview as a temporary nanny, she is shocked to discover that the mother is no other than Lucy, her latest one night stand. While both women initially agree to have a professional relationship only, real feelings begin to develop. As the countdown to Christmas starts, will both women overcome their own insecurities and take a chance on love as a Christmas gift?

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

Riot Recommendations

Earlier this year I wrote about the sudden boom of ‘apron tuggers‘ in romance novels in recent years. This was especially noticeably this year, both in what was being published and, on a personal note, what I read. Since we’re winding down to the end of 2022, I figured now would be a good time to recommend some romances in this category, two of which I read and one that is on my never-ending TBR pile.

Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly

Dahlia is recently divorced and looking to reinvent herself. London is looking to prove themselves to their father and everyone else who questions their identity. The sparks immediately fly when they meet on the set of a reality baking competition but as with all competitions, there can only be one winner. I adored this novel and everything about it. And, as an added bonus, this was my first five star read of this year.

Chef’s Kiss by TJ Alexander

Simone loves her job at The Discerning Chef and the lack of waves she has to deal with. All this changes with the new kitchen manager Ray, who turns out to be the sunshine to her grumpiness. Still, she finds herself softening towards Ray the more they work together. When she finds out how close-minded her job is when Ray comes out as nonbinary, she is left wondering exactly how important the job is to her, especially since it involves someone who has managed to work their way into her heart. This was a sweet, slow burn that I feel didn’t got as much love as it should have this last year and I aim to change that.

Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau

Ryan is an actor who is on a break and looking to bond with his dad after his mother’s death. Lindsay is a baker and Ryan’s somewhat unwilling partner for the celebrity edition of reality show Baking Fail. As the two work together, they bond in multiple ways and begin to develop romantic feelings for one another. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; I’ve never really been disappointed with one of Lau’s books. I’m really looking forward to reading this one.

Here is one romance reader’s top 35 of 2022.

If you’ve been yearning for more queer fantasy romance, then this list may have a few good recommendations for you.

Here is a round-up of some of the winter romances here or headed our way soon.

And here are some more holiday romances to pick up this season!

That’s all I have for y’all today and this week friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with more updates for y’all and, if you need a litlte more of me in the meantime, I can be found floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Gingerbread Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 9, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN Hinton, here with more updates, some new releases, and recommendations for you. I hope that your weekend was everything you wanted and needed it to be.

I’m feeling especially festive today since my copy of Kiss Her Once For Me finally came in! I’ll admit that ever since I heard that Allison Cochrun based Jack on Bill Pullman’s character in While Your Were Sleeping on this episode of the Virtual book Tour podcast, I’ve been even more interested in this book. Hopefully, it will help with the holiday humdrums ’cause I’m still dealing with that.

I am also still reading The Rewind and I have aspirations to finish The Starless Sea before my book club’s Book-mas this Saturday. Wish me luck!

It’s time for Read Harder 2023! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

My Holidays Are All Booked Candle by BookedCandles

The image on this candle is adorable and this is a motto I’m sure that we all would like to adopt. I would much rather spend the majority of the holidays reading and relaxing. And with the combined smell of pine, cypress, Tonka beans, and eucalyptus, this is perfect for lighting while reading by the fire, electric or otherwise. Priced at $23.

New Releases

In It To Win It by Sharon C. Cooper

When former lovers Morgan and Drake meet while bidding on the same property, the sparks fly immediately. But it’s more from the animosity Drake has towards Morgan, who ghosted him years ago, rather than the still-there attraction. However, as they compete to bid on the property, one of the stipulations from the somewhat eccentric buyer, they both realize that neither is the same as they once were and wonder if this is a second chance for romance as well as a real estate opportunity.

Kink the Halls by Ali Williams

Riley is, to say the least, surprised when Wendy, her ex-girlfriend’s recently divorced mom, walks into her kink club looking for a Domme. As the night progresses, Riley slowly begins to realize that she wants to be that person to bring Wendy to her knees and sets out to do so.
CW/TW should be available on the author’s page/note at time of release.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Gingerbread House Day! I know that building one of these is a well-loved holiday tradition for many people. And, while I personally don’t love the taste of gingerbread, I love the smell of any kind of baking and seeing how creative some designers are with what they make.

Since these are staples of the holiday, it goes without saying that there is a plethora of holiday romance books and movies that strongly feature these edible domiciles or even just the cookie version. Hence the theme for today’s recommendations! Enjoy curling up with one of these with the aforementioned cookie or your preferred holiday confection.

A Gingerbread Romance by Lacey Baker

After Taylor’s temperamental business partner backs out of a contest to build a life-sized gingerbread house, she turns to single dad and baker Adam for help. He agrees, knowing it would be great for his business. The more time they spend together, the more they find that they are enjoying each other’s company and wonder if will also be the season of love for them.

Most Wonderful by Bryce Oakley

Emilia is not a huge fan of Christmas and would much prefer to focus her time on running her indie bookstore. Cody loves all things holiday related, especially baking in her uncle’s shop. When their paths cross, Cody is determined to turn Emilia’s view on the holiday around. Will she succeed or will their different approaches to the holidays and life end their story before it really begins?

Gingerbread House of Lies by Shyla Colt

Tired of the constant matchmaking attempts, friends December and Emmanuel concoct a fake dating scheme to get their loved ones off their backs. They plan on doing the big reveal at the annual gingerbread contest. However, play acting reveals real feelings, which may end up being the perfect recipe for a holiday happily ever after.

If you’re still yearning for some holiday reads, check out these eight books.

Or, if none of those strike your fancy, then here is another list of books you might enjoy. No worries, there are no overlap or repeats. I checked!

This is super sweet and I just had to share since I felt all the feelings when watching it.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on in your inboxes Monday with a fresh newsletter. If you need or want more of me in the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. As an aside, I don’t auto-follow back, but it is a good way to see what I’m up two during the in-betweens. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Once Upon a Different Time

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 7, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN, back in your inbox with more romance updates and hopefully some bursts of serotonin to help get you through your day and/or week. I got a big boost of serotonin last weekend with a hair appointment that resulted in awesome new hair, which is always a good feeling.

While I haven’t started a holiday read yet (still holding out for my BOTM box to come in), the holiday movie intake has begun. So far, it’s been the live action How the Grinch Stole Christmas, bits and pieces of Elf (sine I’m not a huge fan overall), Home Alone, and Gremlins. Yes Gremlins is a Christmas movie. I have this fight every year with my spouse and it is a hill I will die on.

Also, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of Ho Ho Ho Romance Book Sweatshirt

Ho Ho Ho Romance Book Sweatshirt by booksrbtrthanreality

This actually made me laugh out loud when I saw it and so I knew it was perfect to boost as a bookish good. It’s perfect for this season and looks comfy as all get out, which means it’s perfect for curling up next to the fire and reading the night away. This comes in three colors and six size options and is priced at $35.

New Releases

Christmas Candy by Darie McCoy

Tired of being the butt of her family’s jokes, Candace ‘Candy’ decides to enroll in a cooking class to enhance her culinary skills. When she walks in and discovers that longtime family friend Kenneth is the instructor, she almost walks right back out. Kenneth on the other hand is excited to both help Candy learn more about the art of cooking and the opportunity to get to know the curvy beauty even more.

Witcha Gonna Do? by Avery Flynn

In this witchy romance, it’s distaste at first sight for the magic-less Tilda and full-of-magic Gil. But somehow they keep getting set up on blind dates. Three to be exact. And although the animosity is real, so is the undeniable and mutual attraction. When Tilda inadvertently freezes her entire family, she has to swallow her pride to ask Gil for help to break the spell before the news breaks out and her powerful family’s powerful enemies try to take advantage of their vulnerable state.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is ‘Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day.’ Now, while the premise sounds prank-related, it did give me the idea of a time travel romance theme, a fairly popular trope in romance.

I’ve read a few of these and do enjoy them. But personally, it’s highly unlikely I would be happy to find myself in the past. While the present time isn’t exactly what one would call kind to a woman who fits my particular demographic, it’s somewhat better than anything in the past.

That aside, time travel is still something that people enjoy reading about and it can be fun. So, without further ado, here are some time travel romances for your consideration.

The Portrait by B.D. Anderson

When she gets dragged by her mother to yet another estate sale, Marleigh is surprised at how drawn she is to a portrait of a British soldier and ends up buying it. When she gets it home, she finds the reason it is so life-like is because the subject of the painting, Winston, was trapped in it by a witch. As Marleigh works to break him free of the curse, the attraction between them builds — but is it for real or just an effect of the spell?

The Time Slip Girl by Elizabeth Andre

While visiting London, computer programmer Dara steps through the door of a shop and finds herself in 1908. Shop girl Agnes graciously gives her a place to stay while she adjusts to her new surroundings. Neither woman can deny the attraction they feel for one another but, in addition to all the prejudices that the two woman would face as an interracial couple in that time is the looming fear of Dara being pulled back to her time with little to no warning.

Pick some food and get your soulmate’s initial.

The Washington Post released their selections of funny romance novels from 2022.

Entertainment Weekly recommends these holiday romances.

If you ever wondered how Julia Quinn reacted to the end of the first season of Bridgerton, well now you know.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Monday though so it won’t be too long until you hear from me again. In the meantime, you can find me posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Accidental Marriages and Festive Foxes

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 2, 2022

Sponsored by

Salutations to you all! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN and I’ll be your guide through the rollercoaster world of romance. Because believe me when I say that there’s rarely ever a dull moment here.

As mentioned last time, I’ve decided to embrace the season in an attempt to not be grumpy. I added my “get jolly” mix to my daily music rotation. I’ve started watching the movies and shows that are streaming everywhere. I ordered some white chocolate peppermint bark coffee that should be getting here soon. And I’m eagerly waiting for my copy of Kiss Her Once for Me to come in so I can get started on that one. Look at me in all my merriment!

In other reading news, I finished Calling the Shots and adored it. While I loved and recommend the entire series overall, this is undoubtedly my favorite out of the three. I felt such a kinship with Tierney that just made it resonate more with me. I also started reading The Rewind, a second chance romance that is perfect for this time of year since it starts on New Year’s Eve.

Bookish Goods

Festive Fox Book Sleeve by CPickeringCo

Okay, this is just flat out adorable. Look at this cute little holiday fox in his antlers and hat! I love everything about this book sleeve which, honestly, I would use any day of the year. The price for this sleeve ranges from $14 to $27, depending on size.

New Releases

A Dash of Salt and Pepper by Kosoko Jackson

Prep chef Xavier is currently having a rough time at life. These challenges landed him back in Harper’s Cove and working at hip new restaurant, The Wharf. Logan, head chef and owner of the establishment, doesn’t appreciate Xavier’s acidic nature and attitude but also knows that when it comes to help, he can’t afford to be choosy. As the two men work closely together, more than just the kitchen heats up, leaving them to wonder what comes next for both of them.

Five Kisses at Midnight by Abby Crofton

Life in Hawaii seems like a dream come true for Bell. That is, until she gets stuck in a time loop and starts repeating New Year’s Eve over and over again. The only person who believes she is stuck in this loop is surfer Lola who is there over and over again, ready to help break this repeating day. As they learn more about each other, Bell becomes more determined than ever to break this curse and finally start the new year, hopefully with Lola by her side.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’m not very far into The Rewind, so I don’t yet know the circumstances of how these ex-lovers got accidentally married. However, it did get me to thinking about that specific trope and how it kind of goes hand in hand with marriage of convenience.

Think about it; if you wake up accidentally married because you were under the influence of something, then you can get it purposefully annulled the next day, or at least get the process started for it. So, when the couple chooses to stay married, it is usually for one reason or another.

With that thought process running through my head, I decided to do another round of marriages of conveniences. The set up isn’t exactly like it is in the aforementioned book, but the unexpected marriage aspect is still present in both.

Waking Up Married by Reese Ryan

When lifelong friends Zora and Dallas wake up married after a night in Vegas, the initial plan is to quietly get the marriage annulled. However, they forgot that they were high profile people which means their nuptials go viral very quickly. Not wanting to admit to their family that it was all a mistake, they decide to stay married and end up realizing this was the best mistake of their lives.

Accidental Honeymoon by Miranda MacLeod

Monica and Ray have a chance to inherit a rural New England vineyard and a lot of cash, provided they get married. The only snag? They can’t stand one another. However, this is one of those “the ends will justify the means” situations so they try to make the best of it. As they work to plan a very real wedding for their very fake relationship, the tension builds between them and they wonder if this is actually the prefect opportunity for love.

And that’s all I have for you this fine Monday morning. I hope that the rest of the day treats you well. And if there are/were hiccups and challenges, I hope that they are easily surmountable. Make sure to take time for yourself in this busy season and do one thing that brings you joy each day. I’ll be back on Thursday with another edition and in the meantime I can be found over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Holiday Romance Shirts and Snowed In Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 30, 2022

Sponsored by

Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s the first day of December, y’all and the last month of 2022. We’re almost there.

Now, I typically wait until the day after Turkey Day to consume anything holiday related. But this year I decided to wait until December officially started. The first movie I’m planning on watching is Writing Around the Christmas Tree. Now, we all know what they say about best laid plans so we’ll see what the future brings. If I do though, I’ll be sure to update on what I thought next time.

In things currently bringing me joy, I picked up a copy of Legends & Lattes from one of my local indie stores. I was also pleased that I correctly guessed the BOTM clue and that one of the picks this month would be Kiss Her Once For Me, which y’all know was the one I picked for even more holiday reading. And even factoring in those two purchases, as well as the copy of Delilah Green Doesn’t Care I recently treated myself to, I am still at my goal of reading half of the books I bought this year.

And I’m making a promise: no more (purchased) books for the rest of the year. Gifts and ARCs are a whole different story.

And on that note, onto the rest of the newsletter!

Bookish Goods

Small Town Christmas Trope Tarot Card T-shirt by lylajuneco

Of course this was going to be the bookish good to start December off with. I know that these small town Christmas movies are all the rage in July and December. And, if we’re being honest, we all know one person who watches these movies all year-round. Whatever the case is for you or your loved ones, this is just the perfect thing to watch for all your holiday movie viewings. Priced at $25.

New Releases

The Naughty Chocolatier by Ana’Gia Wright

Celestial is recently divorced and looking for love. Ellis is a handsome restaurant owner who is trying to get a handle on the business he just inherited. After he saves her from a terrible arranged date, their paths continue to cross. This leads them both to wonder if destiny is about to open a new chapter for both of them.

Ghosted Christmas Past by Bryce Oakley

When nanny Merritt and private chef Dylan’s paths cross a year after the latter ghosted the former, on Christmas day no less, there is a little bit of tension in the air. This gets a bit tighter when Merritt finds out they’re sharing a room while working at a holiday house in the Rockies. And when Dylan says she wants to give them a second chance, Merritt nearly explodes. This is part of an entire collection of nine novellas that all get released today, so if this one isn’t calling to you, there are eight other holiday filled options to choose from!

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

Riot Recommendations

This season is also the time of the year that the desire for snowed in romances goes up. I know that I’ve talked about this before, but that was last year. And I have yet to do it this year and it also fits in with the overall theme of this edition.

So yay time for snowed in romances!! And no worries; I made sure there were no repeats from my previous list.

Redemption by Kenya Wright

On the run from her abusive husband for three years, Kenya and her three kids find themselves snowbound at Yoshiro’s house. After the mafia murdered his family, Yoshiro left his life of crime, retreating to solitude for five years. Understandably, both of them have walls around them, but the close quarters and an undeniable attraction work to break them down, leaving them to wonder if they should both take this opportunity for a second chance family.

cover of A Christmas Gone Perfectly Wrong

A Christmas Gone Perfectly Wrong by Cecilia Grant

When Andrew is asked to drive Lucy to a house party, it is just another addition to the long list of tasks that have been bestowed on him. While he’s understandably grumpy about it, Lucy is overjoyed at the opportunity to break away from her mundane life. However a carriage mishap seems to forecast a scandal rather than a happy holiday, leaving a stoic man and carefree woman to wonder if love will help to make the best of this situation.

Pick some books and get a romcom to watch.

If you’re looking for some holiday romances to curl up with this month, here is a decent list of some options.

Guess the romantic movie by a random quote.

Fake dating romances!

And that is all I have for y’all this fine Thursday. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh edition. In the meanwhile I can be found floating around Twitter under @PScribe801. Until next time, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.