Categories
Kissing Books

Plus-Sized Romance Recs

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

It’s good to see y’all again! If you had a long weekend I hope that you enjoyed it and that it was restful and recharging. Mine was fairly decent and yesterday was the last day of school, which means the Teenager is out for summer break. So, all in all, it’s going well over here.

Bookish Goods

picture of sit down and read bookmark

Sit Down and Read Bookmark by KinsBins

Sometimes all you need is a little bit of a firm directive followed by some sweet encouragement to remind yourself to take time for your TBR. $10

New Releases

cover of A Little Kissing Between Friends

A Little Kissing Between Friends by Chencia C. Higgins

When an altercation occurs between exotic dancer Juleesa and music producer Cyn’s latest fling, the life-long besties begin to wonder if there is more between them than a platonic friendship. However, it’s not just years of friendship at risk here as Juleesa is also Cyn’s muse for her musical tracks, which puts their respective careers in jeopardy. This leaves them wondering if a chance at true love outweighs what could happen if it doesn’t work out and if they’re willing to take that risk.

cover of The Ride of Her Life

The Ride of Her Life by Jennifer Dugan

When Molly inherits a struggling horse barn from an estranged aunt, she first views it as just another burden that she has to juggle. After seeing it, she changes her mind, thinking about how the profits from selling it could help her start her wedding event planning business. However, Shani, her aunt’s friend and the resident farrier, is determined to stop that from happening. As the two women butt heads over the future of the farm and land, feelings soon develop between them and have them wondering if there is a way for them to both get what they want as well as each other.

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

Riot Recommendations

If you’re following me over on Instagram, you may have seen when I shared this post from author Jenna Louise Skinner on a reporter from The Spectator and their ugly and fatphobic take on Nicola Coughlan’s Penelope Featherington.

I’m not linking to the article since you can see from that snippet there it doesn’t deserve any more traffic than it has already gotten. It screams of fatphobia as well as internalized misogyny and is a disgusting take in 2024. As I’ve stated multiple times, the discourse around Penelope and Colin’s story is whether or not the latter was deserving of the former and not the other way around.

In response to that, I’m going to highlight some books that celebrate plus-sized bodies and show that big girls are deserving of love too. Also, note you can pick up any of the aforementioned author’s books as well and should because they’re awesome.

cover of The Princess Trap

The Princess Trap by Talia Hibbert

After Cherry is caught in a compromising position with Prince Ruben, the latter quickly puts together a fake engagement scheme to help save his reputation. While Cherry is none too pleased with being backed into a corner, she agrees to go along with the charade. When she finds out that his alleged fairy tale life is less than rosy, she becomes determined to help him find happiness in any way she can and soon falls in love with the tragic prince. 

cover image of Knit, Purl, and a Baby Girl by Hettie Bell

Knit, Purl, a Baby, and a Girl by Hettie Bell

After ending up with a positive pregnancy test, Poppy decides that, even though this was not in her plans, she is going to keep the baby. She joins a knitting group to get a feeling of community she is missing from her own family and to start making baby clothes. At her first meeting, there is an instant spark between her and the group leader Rhiannon. However, Rhiannon doesn’t consider herself a family woman and Poppy has a baby on the way. Soon, the two will have to decide if theirs is a fling or if there is a happily ever after in their future.

The Wake Country Public Library will be hosting a Zoom webinar showcasing and celebrating some popular LGBTQIA+ authors and stories. If interested, you can sign up here.

If you’re looking for a book—or two—to pack in your summer beach bag, check out this list!

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime you can always catch up with my over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Pre-Summertime Vibes

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

I had a great time at the SKULLastic Book Fair last week, as expected. Even though there were tons of books I was interested in, I was good and only walked away with two books; What Moves the Dead and What Feasts at Night. I also fully admit that this was inspired by my recent watch of The Fall of the House of Usher which was, in my ever-so-humble opinion, beyond brilliant.

Bookish Goods

ice cream coozie

Romance Trope Ice Cream Coozie by MeaggieMoos

I happened across this when I was looking for a fun, bookish goody to share, and y’all…when I realized what it was, the scream of glee I gave out. An ice cream coozie? With romance tropes on it? Sign me up. This is perfect for curling up with a good book and ice cream, especially since you won’t have to worry about cold hands. $9

New Releases

cover Her Private Security Detail

Her Private Security Detail by Patricia Sargeant

Jeremiah’s latest assignment at his family’s security detail is protecting Symone from an unknown threat to her life and nonprofit. Although he’s attracted to the beautiful philanthropist, as his client, she is off limits. However, the imminent danger requires them to spend more time together, which makes it all the more difficult to keep their relationship professional.

cover of Savor It

Savor It by Tarah DeWitt

It’s summertime in Spunes and time for The Festival of Spunes. Sage and Fisher both have personal reasons for wanting to come out the champion this year and agree to partner up to take home the coveted top prize. As they spend more time together, what started out as a professional relationship quickly develops into more, and they realize that they don’t want summer or their partnership to end. 

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

Riot Recommendations

cover of Tinkering With Love

Tinkering With Love by Aliyah Burke

After Dawson moves across the country for her dream job only to discover the position was given to someone else, she is understandably upset. When she’s told that there will be a wilderness retreat with the rest of the company, including Tully, the person who got her job, the situation gets worse. While she tries to remain standoffish, she finds herself succumbing to his charm and wondering what would happen if she lowered her walls with him. But secrets still exist between them and when they come to light, it could destroy the possibility of a happily ever after.

cover of Fire & Ice

Fire & Ice by Rachel Spangler

After a professional mistake, reporter Max finds herself demoted to curling coverage to make amends. Callie is a curling skipper with dreams of making it to Team USA. She knows that coverage from Max will help pave the way and sets out to show Max the joy of the sport. She slowly begins to melt the ice around Max’s heart towards Callie and curling. 

If you’re still yearning for some historical romances, this list has you covered.

Speaking of historical romances, take this etiquette quiz to see how you would fare in high society.

I had way too much fun with this ball gown generator.

Linda Lael Miller was one of my go-to romance authors as a wee book dragon. If you’ve never read her, these books are a good place to start.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. Since Monday is a holiday here in the US, you won’t hear from me again until next Thursday. Until then, you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world to see my adventures in books. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Fancy a Cuppa Love?

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

Bookish Goods

picture of tea bath print

Tea Bath With a Book Art Print by stasiab

Apart from a plethora of books, a comfy chair, and a good reading light, one item that brings a reading space together is an amazing bookish print. And this particular one showcases the vibes most of us want to channel once we’ve settled into those spaces. $25

New Releases

cover of The 7-10 Split

The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee

When teacher Ava’s former childhood friend Grace returns home to Peach Blossom to take a teaching job at her high school, she is not looking to take a walk down memory lane, especially once the principal announces that Grace will be coaching the bowling team Ava has been championing for years. But when they’re tasked with bringing the new bowling team to championship victory in six months, the women decide to put the past behind them and work together for the future of the team. Now, if only they could ignore the still very much present chemistry between them. 

cover of For Pucking Keeps

For Pucking Keeps by D. Sparks

Alexis, better known as indie romance author Jazminne Starr, has just relocated to Seattle to deal with her writer’s block, broken heart, and impending deadline. She decides to write a hockey romance and, as luck would have it, her new friend and neighbor is the sister of Tor Bailey, Captain and Center for the Seattle Vipers. As they work together, the attraction between them grows. But once the romance is out there in black and white, will there still be a chance for them to continue what they had started? 

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

Riot Recommendations

As promised in the last newsletter, here are some tea-themed romances to curl up with. Enjoy!

cover of Give Love a Chai

Give Love a Chai by Nanxi Wen

Tia is ready to get married and start her new life with Mr. Perfect. She just needs to divorce Andrew, her ex-childhood friend and current husband first. When she shows up at his doorstep demanding that he sign the papers, Andrew views this return as the perfect opportunity for a second chance. However, despite their history, Tia has a current love and isn’t sure if she should throw that away to try it again with Andrew.

cover of The Secret Service of Tea and Treason

The Secret Service of Tea and Treason by India Holton

Alice is the top operative at the Agency of Undercover Note Takers, a title she intends to keep. So when rumors of an assassination plot begin to float around town, she is quickly assigned to the case. She isn’t working alone though, as rival Daniel has been assigned to act as her husband for the duration of the undercover assignment. Neither are happy with this assignment but are determined to keep it up until they find their would-be villain. However, as they continue to play the part of a married couple, they soon find themselves struggling to fight their mutual and fast-growing attraction.

Yet another eerily accurate quiz, at least for me.

If you’re wanting some more hockey romances, check this list out.

Get your shelves prepared for these romances that perfectly combine astrology and Tarot.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday. In the meantime you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Brewing Up Love

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

Tomorrow is the SKULLastic Book Fair and the excitement cannot be contained. Not only will I pick up a few new books, but I will be hanging out with two of my besties and having a brew or two. What better way to start the weekend?

Speaking of books, I’m still working on Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places, which will be released next week. I also started Looking for Sign, the upcoming release from Book Riot’s own Susie Dumond.

Bookish Goods

picture of metal library card bookmarks

Metal Library Card Bookmarks by LavenderCloudStudio

As a lifelong library lover, I couldn’t resist sharing these. They are just too cute and super affordable. So if you have trouble picking just one, you can treat yourself and get all three guilt-free. $5

New Releases

cover of Tiny Truths

Tiny Truths by Teralyn Mitchell

After his fiancée dumps him, Zane decides he is through with love. Unfortunately, his family missed that memo and keep trying to find him his next match. To avoid getting roped into date after date, he says he is dating his best friend, Rhiannon. When this gets back to Rhiannon, she goes along with the charade, figuring that, if nothing else, Zane would owe her a big favor. But when real feelings start developing during their fake relationship, the two are left wondering what comes next. 

cover of Cabin Fever

Cabin Fever by Tagan Shepard

Morgan is hopeful that her first national trade show will prove to be a profitable endeavor. Then she learns that her professional rival Shelby is also there, which dashes those dreams. When a snowstorm results in canceled flights, Morgan is fortunate enough to get the last rental car and kindly offers to give Shelby a ride home. The bad luck doesn’t stop there, and the two women find themselves stranded in a cabin with a wrecked car and no cell reception. However, as the two spend more time together, feelings between them begin to take root and have them questioning if they are for real or a byproduct of their circumstances.

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

Riot Recommendations

I don’t know about y’all, but the exhaustion has been real for me as of late. I’m almost always tired, no matter how much sleep I get. It’s to the point where if I don’t have at least one caffeinated beverage in the morning, I am severely regretting it by the time the afternoon comes.

While tea will do the trick, coffee is usually the default drink. In honor of the delicious beverage, I’m recommending some romances that center around a coffee shop. If you prefer tea, you can expect some tea-themed romances with the next send. Enjoy! 

cover of Sweetly Swirled

Sweetly Swirled by M. L. Spann

Bri is going through a rough patch in her life and finds it difficult to remain optimistic. One of the bright spots in her life is her visits to her local coffee shop to see Jayce, the handsome barista. When he hears about her troubles, he offers her a job at the shop. He also asks for her help winning back his ex-girlfriend. Bri agrees to both, even though she holds a candle for Jayce. Once he gets to know her more, Jayce appears to have changed his mind, as the looks he gives Bri are as hot as the coffee they serve. 

cover of Living La Vida Mocha

Living La Vida Mocha by H.M. Shander

When Cara’s seemingly perfect life comes crashing down, she walks into Coffee Loft for a sugary drink as a pick-me-up. She’s surprised to find that the barista is Carter, the college classmate who left for Europe before she could reveal her feelings for him. While the attraction is still there, 13 years is a long time, and neither are the same person they were back then. Will this be the opportunity for a second chance, or will this chance encounter end up with them parting ways again?

Take this poll to see how your trope preferences match up with others.

If you’ve been looking into diving into Molly Harper, here is the chronological list for her Half Moon Hollow series.

While I know that the statement made here is likely very true, I’m still going to try.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I hope that the time between now and when we meet again is kind to you. If you want snippets of me between the sends, then you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

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Kissing Books

Booktroverts Unite

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

This Friday, Curio Mrvosa will be hosting its second Skullastic Book Fair. Longtime readers may recall I mentioned this last October and how much fun I had there. So, of course, I’m beyond happy that the store is working to make this a recurring thing, and can’t wait to see what my “halfway to Halloween” haul will look like.

Bookish Goods

picture of booktrovert sweatshirt

Booktrovert Sweatshirt by

While it may not be sweatshirt weather for everyone right now, at some point, it will be. And when it is, this is the perfect sweatshirt to wear when snuggling up with your favorite beverage on a lazy weekend indoors.  $48.

New Releases

cover of Wyatt: The Barlowe Mafia

Wyatt: The Barlowe Mafia by Asia Monique

When Wyatt’s father dies, he becomes head of his family’s mafia. His main priority is to put an end to the rivalry with the Callahan mafia. The proposed agreement is for him to marry Analia, the daughter of a high-ranking Callahan member. While both are prepared to do whatever is necessary for their respective families, neither expected love to be part of the agreement.

cover of Spirits and Sirens

Spirits and Sirens by Kelly and Tana Fireside

After her dad asks for her help with their family funeral home, medium Elena returns home to Owen Station, fully ready to embrace the sixth sense that initially made her leave. The one person who isn’t pleased with her return is Allison, the new fire chief, and the feeling is mutual. But when she needs her help in solving a 70-year-old mystery, they agree to a truce and soon are looking at each other with unexpected and different eyes. 

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

Riot Recommendations

My sister recently sent me this TikTok that was talking about the superiority of Grease 2, which was one of the movies that we watched constantly growing upNow, I like both equally. And I do understand the pop culture relevance of Grease. However, that doesn’t mean that its sequel is inferior by any stretch. For some, it is the superior musical, even. 

This train of thought led me to think about books that were the second in a series that were just as good as the first one. Now, I know that, as with the Grease versus Grease 2 debate, it is purely subjective. But these are two that stand out the most to me. Enjoy!  

cover of breathless

Breathless by Beverly Jenkins

Due to not having either in her early childhood, hotelier Portia strives for respect and stability. She also refuses to give up her independence and be tied down to a man, knowing how quickly love can sour. Still, she’s tempted to rethink this mindset when family friend Kent comes back to town. Kent is looking for a forever home and a wife, and sets his eyes on Portia. Once he realizes her feelings towards him, he works even harder to prove to her that they are meant to be. 

cover of Tender Rebel

Tender Rebel by Johanna Lindsey

Roslynn needs a quick marriage of convenience to save her from would-be fortune hunters. When handsome rake Anthony offers to help her, she is hesitant to accept, knowing that he could prove too tempting for her. After spending more time with the Scottish beauty, Anthony knows he has met the woman who he is willing to give up his roguish ways for. And, once that is determined, he sets out to prove it to her.

Take this quiz to find out which Emily Henry hero is your soulmate.

There’s also this one, in case you need some inspiration for your next date night.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday and in the meantime you can always give a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Socks, Spies, and Shipwrecks

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Today’s random holiday is Lost Sock Memorial Day. I know that somewhere between starting and finishing laundry, we have all felt the sorrow of losing a sock. It’s no big deal when it’s a plain sock, but I’ve lost some of my fun socks over the years, which is a bit more heartbreaking. 

Looking for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift? Go beyond the tried and true flowers and chocolate and give the gift of reading with Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists are standing by to help your mom find her next favorite read, delivered right to her inbox or doorstep. And with gifts starting at just $18, there’s something for any budget! Head to mytbr.co/gift to send the gift of reading to the book nerd in your life!

It’s been a minute since I’ve updated you on my reading! I am still reading Just For the Summer because that author is one that I like taking my time with. I also started Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places and am adoring it as well.

Bookish Goods

picture of bookish socks

Do Not Disturb, I’m Reading Smut Socks by VulpineVinyls

Today’s goodie is in honor of Lost Sock Memorial Day. They look super soft and comfortable. Plus, they give fair warning to anyone who may be tempted to disrupt your current reading session. $13

New Releases

cover of Honey Pot

Honey Pot by Katrina Jackson

Asif and Chanté are spies and lovers. However, Asif’s preference to work alone sometimes leads him into unexpected peril. When he goes missing on his latest mission, Chanté quickly heads out to find him, vowing not to let anyone or anything, including Asif himself, get in the way of their bright future together. 

cover of Gillian's Island

Gillian’s Island by Cara Malone

After her band books a gig on a luxury sapphic cruise, lead singer Scarlet is optimistic about what this means for her career. Veterinary researcher Robin had intended to spend the entirety of the cruise focusing on the wildlife and not the women. Then Scarlet and Robin meet, sparks instantly fly, and the two quickly become close. But when a storm forces all the passengers to abandon ship on an uninhabited island with no way to seek aid, tensions rise between everyone, including Scarlet and Robin, which could wither this blossoming relationship.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’ve noticed an uptick in romances that feature one or both of the main characters getting left at the altar. This breakup usually takes place right at the beginning, leaving plenty of time for the jilted character(s) to start down the pathway of their new love story. 

Personally, if I got left at the altar, I’d be through with love for at least a year, if not forever. But if that were the case for these characters, there wouldn’t be much of a story, now would there? With that said, here are the recommendations for today. Enjoy!

cover of That Thing Between Eli and Gwen

That Thing Between Eli and Gwen by J. J. McAvoy

Eli and Gwen have, respectively, found their forever person and are looking forward to settling into married life. But when Eli’s wedding day arrives, his would-be bride runs off with Gwen’s fiancé. After that painful betrayal, Eli and Gwen turn to each other to help adjust to what will be their new normal and soon find themselves wondering if there was a reason their best-laid plans went astray.

cover of Trust Me

Trust Me by Jayne Ann Krentz

While caterer Desdemona is sympathetic towards Stark getting left at the altar, she still needs him to pay the bill for the wedding that wasn’t. When it comes out that Stark has a handful of social engagements that he’s obligated to go to, he hires her company. What begins as a professional relationship soon grows into more as these two opposites find themselves irrevocably drawn to one another. 

It’s almost time for the first half of season three for Bridgerton. If you’re looking for some books with the same vibes, check out some of the books listed here.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with another romance roundup. If you’re so inclined, you can also give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world to get bookish snippets of me between the sends. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

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Kissing Books

Best Friend’s Sibling Recommendations

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope that this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Today is Beverage Day! As a self-proclaimed beverage goblin, this gives me a giddy thrill because it’s just a fun day that recognizes the importance and joy that beverages of all kinds bring to us. I know I can’t start my day properly without some form of caffeine and my insulated tumbler stays full of water all day. So, if you happen to be drinking something while reading this, be sure to give it a lift in honor of today. 

Bookish Goods

picture of my book buying shirt

“My Book Buying Shirt” by MorallyGrayandCo

This shirt genuinely made me laugh out loud, especially the smaller print. Because seriously, when I’m on a mission for a book and a little treat, I detest any type of determent. Prices start at $20.

New Releases

cover of Love, Lies, and Cherry Pies

Love, Lies, and Cherry Pies by Jackie Lau

Emily’s mother is determined to set her up with Mark, the son of their family’s friends. Feeling like she has no other choice, Emily convinces the somewhat reluctant Mark to agree to fake dating until her mother leaves her alone. When friends begin unexpectedly showing up to their “dates” though, they’re forced to put in overtime to make the ruse believable. The extra time spent together helps Emily see Mark in a different light and has her questioning if she still wants this relationship to be fake.  

cover of You Should Be So Lucky

You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian

When baseball player Eddie is forced to give a series of interviews to reporter Mark, neither man is happy with the situation. However, being well aware they have no other choice, they agree. Soon, the two men find themselves drawing closer to one another. But Eddie’s profession doesn’t allow the luxury of coming out, and Mark refuses to be kept a secret. Will they be able to face the prejudice of the world together or will their love story come to an abrupt end? 

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

Looking for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift? Go beyond the tried and true flowers and chocolate and give the gift of reading with Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists are standing by to help your mom find her next favorite read, delivered right to her inbox or doorstep. And with gifts starting at just $18, there’s something for any budget! Head to mytbr.co/gift to send the gift of reading to the book nerd in your life!

Riot Recommendations

Are you in the mood for some best friend’s sibling romances? If so, then today’s recommendations are for you!

cover of Down to Ash

Down to Ash by Melissa Blue

Victor returned from his stint as an Army bomb tech a broken and dangerous man. Only his best friend kept him from going completely over the edge. So, when he develops an attraction to Ashley, said friend’s sister, he tries to ignore it. But when the temptation proves to be too great to overcome, Victor is left having to decide if the feelings she ignites in him are worth the loss of the friendship.  

cover of Driving Her Wild

Driving Her Wild by Mariah Ankenmann

Due to having a crush on the younger Josie, Bex is having second thoughts about picking the woman, her best friend’s sister, up from the airport. What she doesn’t know is that Josie also feels the same way about her. And, when a series of circumstances on the two-and-a-half-hour ride home result in the two women having to stay the night in a motel, she sets out to show Bex that she is all woman now and more than just Max’s little sister.  

Check out this round-up of some of the best Vanessa Riley books.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday, and in the meantime, you can find me on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Will Shop for Books

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope that this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

As promised last week, here is the update from my Independent Bookstore Day adventure. I went to four stores and walked away with three books. The books in question were Austin NoirConfessions of a Teenage Drag King, and a new copy of The Hacienda. Not too shabby, if I say so myself.

Looking for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift? Go beyond the tried and true flowers and chocolate and give the gift of reading with Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists are standing by to help your mom find her next favorite read, delivered right to her inbox or doorstep. And with gifts starting at just $18, there’s something for any budget! Head to mytbr.co/gift to send the gift of reading to the book nerd in your life!

Now to the rest of the newsletter!

Bookish Goods

picture of bookish license plate

“I Brake for Bookstores” License Plate Cover by TheRightPlacetoBe

This seemed to be the appropriate bookish goodie for after Independent Bookstore Day. I’m actually been looking for a new license plate cover myself, and when I saw this, I couldn’t help sharing it with all of y’all. $18

New Releases

cover of Sink into Her

Sink Into Her by Elaine J. Daniels

Alex is a resort pool manager whose life is turned upside down when she discovers a female Kraken floating in the pool. The Kraken doesn’t remember anything about her life, including her name, and Alex reluctantly agrees to help her rediscover who she is. As they work together to solve this mystery, feelings begin to develop, leaving them to wonder where that will leave them once the Kraken’s memory is restored.

cover of King of Sloth

King of Sloth by Ana Huang

Publicist Sloane has had her share of annoying clients. However, charming playboy Xavier is a top contender for the most challenging one. It’s not just because of his cavalier attitude; it’s because he also tempts Sloane to act in an unprofessional manner. When an unexpected tragedy strikes and the two find themselves having to work together even more, it makes it that harder for Sloane to keep those boundaries in place. 

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

Riot Recommendations

Last Sunday, I went to my city’s Witch Fest, which, as you may have suspected, was a witchy convention. I had a great time there looking at all the crafts and soaking up all the good vibes. While I picked up a few things, my favorite was a new green fluorite pendant to add to my ever-growing collection of necklaces. 

As such, today’s recommendations were selected to reference my adventures from last weekend. Enjoy! 

cover of Witchful Thinking

Witchful Thinking by Celestine Martin

Lucy loves her life in the magical town of Freya Grove, but something in her can’t help but yearn for something more. After a wish she makes evolves into a spell, she’s unable to say no to anything she’s asked to do. So, when her high school crush Alex asks for help with lifting a jinx from his house, she has to agree. This results in another type of magic developing between them. But with the travel-happy Alex planning on leaving as soon as his house sells, is there an actual chance at a happily ever after for the two? 

Cover of Read Between the Lines

Read Between the Lines by Rachel Lacey

Bookstore owner Rosie and sapphic romance author Brie have a flirtatious friendship online. In real life, Brie is Jane and works for the property development company that is going to terminate the lease on Rosie’s bookstore. When those two worlds collide, it leaves them both wondering if this is something that they can overcome for a chance at true love, or if anything romantic is now dead in the water.  

And that’s all I have for you today and this week. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter, and in the meantime, you can find my adventures in Book-land over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

“Trope Cola” and Fake Marriages

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Looking to elevate your reading life? Tailored Book Recommendations is here to help with handpicked recommendations. Tell the Bibliologists at Tailored Book Recommendations about what you love and what you don’t. You can get your recommendations via email or receive hardcovers or paperbacks in the mail. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Plans start at just $18! Subscribe today.

It’s the Monday after Independent Bookstore Day. If you celebrated, I hope you got a good haul that didn’t make your bank account cry too much. Since I’m writing this before I took my mini-bookstore crawl with my sister, I can’t give any updates yet. But come Thursday, I’ll be able to relay what got added to my ever-growing TBR pile.

Bookish Goods

picture of trope cola stickers

Trope Cola Stickers by fatedmakes

These are just ADORABLE and perfect for the spring and summertime vibes. The price is $4.00 per sticker, or $14.00 if you want the whole set.

New Releases

cover of All Too Reel

All Too Reel by Nicole Lam

When Prince Kostas asks Raina to be his fake wife for a year to help him get his inheritance in exchange for a large amount of money and free publicity, the aspiring actress readily agrees. After all, in the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, she’ll take all the help she can get. However, Kostas is more charming than Raina anticipated, and she quickly develops real feelings for the handsome royal.

cover of Truly, Madly, Deeply

Truly, Madly, Deeply by Alexandria Bellefleur

When romance writer Truly and divorce lawyer Colin start a podcast on relationship advice, the first attempted recording ends in disaster with Truly walking out. When Colin approaches her later to ask for a second chance, she begrudgingly agrees. Soon, the two find that they have more in common than they initially thought and wonder if their past failed relationships were designed to lead them to this happily ever after.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today’s recommendations are fake engagement/marriage books. This trope is an elevated version of fake dating. As such, the stakes tend to be higher. But, that also makes for a more interesting read in some cases. With that said, let’s dive into today’s recommendations!

cover of The I Do Dilemma

The “I Do” Dilemma by Jayci Lee

Garrett Song needs a wife to remain CEO of his family’s fashion business, and Natalie needs to show the courts she has a stable home to retain custody of her niece. After discovering each other’s situations, they enter into a fake and temporary marriage. What neither expected was that the spark between them would flare to life and blur the lines of their agreement.

D'Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding cover

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

Kris and D’Vaughn have their reasons for signing up for the reality show Instant I Do. Kris is doing it to help boost her social media platforms, and D’Vaughn is using it to come out to her mother. The $100,000 cash prize is just a bonus. Neither expected that they would have intense chemistry on and off cameras, which puts them in the position of having to choose between cash or a chance at true love.

Check out this interview with our own Jessica Pryde with KBIA!

Cleat Cute may soon be coming to the small screen. *squee*

This TikTok from author Elisabeth Wheatley legit made me laugh out loud.

That’s all she wrote for this lovely Monday. Hopefully, this newsletter gave you a burst of serotonin to help prepare you for the upcoming week. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday and in the meantime, you can always catch up on my bookish adventures on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated! 

Categories
Kissing Books

Workplace Rivals to Lovers

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope that this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Looking to elevate your reading life? Tailored Book Recommendations is here to help with handpicked recommendations. Tell the Bibliologists at Tailored Book Recommendations about what you love and what you don’t. You can get your recommendations via email or receive hardcovers or paperbacks in the mail. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Plans start at just $18! Subscribe today.

As a friendly reminder, this weekend is Independent Bookstore Day. Be sure to get out there and show your favorite indie some love today. After all, it’s a win-win situation; you help your local bookstore and you’ll get new books.

Bookish Goods

a shirt with a hand reaching up from being buried under stacks of books, accompanied by the text "I'm Ok"

“I’m Ok” Shirt by nfiniti

Between all the books on my TBR pile and the ones I’m going to get this weekend, I feel this shirt on an emotional level. Still, I don’t mind the feeling, because I would rather have too much to read than not enough. $29

New Releases

cover of The Good Ones Are Taken

The Good Ones Are Taken by Taj McCoy

After a series of disastrous dates, Maggie is overjoyed when she runs into a handsome doctor at her gym and the sparks begin to fly. However, Garrett, her other best friend, only sees red flags and constantly makes snarky comments about the good doctor. When Maggie confronts him about his negativity, he finally admits he has more than platonic feelings for her. Now Maggie is looking at two possible romantic options and isn’t sure which man to choose.

cover of Funny Story by Emily Henry

Funny Story by Emily Henry

After getting dumped by her fiancé Peter for his childhood friend Petra, Daphne finds herself in a new city with a new job and an unexpected roommate: Petra’s ex, Miles. Even though the two are as different as night and day, they have an amicable and uncomplicated living situation. All that changes after a night of drinking, when the two concoct a plan to get back at their exes. As they perpetuate a fake relationship online, real feelings soon follow, which leaves Daphne wondering if getting dumped was necessary for her to meet the true love of her life. 

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

Riot Recommendations

When I was deciding on the theme for today’s recommendations, a friend recommended enemies to lovers. As you might have expected, I was perfectly fine with that, because I will always talk about that trope. However, I wanted to give it an extra sparkle, so I’m highlighting workplace rivals to lovers specifically. Enjoy! 

cover of Trust Falling For You

(Trust) Falling for You by Charish Reid

When Yolanda and Samuel find out they’re bunkmates for the university’s week-long team-building event, neither are thrilled. Still, they resolve to make the best of the situation and try to get along. They never expected the close quarters to ignite a powerful sexual tension that made them rethink their initial impressions of one another.

cover of Enemies with Benefits

Enemies with Benefits by Roxie Noir

Violet and Eli were academic rivals from their first day in kindergarten up until Eli leaves town. When he returns ten years later as her co-worker, their rivalry reignites. However, there’s also a spark of attraction, and they find themselves in a frenemies-with-benefits agreement. Both convince themselves that it’s just sex, but as it continues, they find themselves falling for one another and are left wondering what will come next.

Check out this interview between Mary Steenburgen and debut author Myah Ariel on how the actress helped to inspire When I Think of You

Here is a taste of some of the new spring romances that we can look forward to.

If you’ve never read Jude Deveraux before, this list is a good jumping-off point. Remember that she is an old-school romance writer, so the tropes that were prevalent during that time will likely be present in these titles. 

Oprah put out her list of the best romance novels out there, and I have to say it’s a pretty well-rounded list

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter, and you can always catch my Adventures in Bookworld over on the ‘gram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.