Categories
Kissing Books

Notebooks & Foodie Romances

Happy Thursday! We’re almost through the first week of July and I hope that you made it through relatively unscathed. If not, then I hope that this upcoming weekend is restful for you and gives you the recharge you need next week to kick some butt.

I finished From Bad to Cursed which only further cemented my desire to live in Thistle Grove. I’m still working my way through Chef’s Kiss and plan on starting Book Lovers and an advanced copy of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches very soon.

Bookish Goods

picture of romance reader journal

Romance Reader Sunrise Journal by Pearstreetdesigns

Whether or not you use this notebook as a book journal, a regular journal, or just something to jot your random thoughts down, it’s a beautiful way of advertising what kind of reader that you are and showing that you do not care about any other opinion on the matter. $17

New Releases

cover of The Duke's Lesson in Love

The Duke’s Lesson in Love by Robecca Austin

When a near-death accident reminds Lord Gilleasbuig he doesn’t have an heir, he sets out to right this by claiming his estranged child from an orphanage. Rightfully standing in his way is Sadie, who has been watching the child since he was abandoned and is furious with Gilleasbuig for only deciding to step in to keep his name alive. Entranced by her, he is determined to prove to her and his son that he is ready to take on the responsibilities of a son and possibly a wife…

cover of Music From Stone

Music from Stone by Brenda Murphy

Nüwa Zhou is a celebrated pianist, but after an experience with a stalker that lead to a trial, she has retreated back to her parent’s estate. There she meets Julia, a stonemason, and enters into a friendship with her that soon turns romantic. When her stalker returns determined to take Nüwa again, she becomes equally as determined to protect Julia from a fatal fate and give their love a chance.

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

Riot Recommendations

Foodie romances have been huge in the last few years. I have found myself picking these up more and more this year and I have really enjoyed the ones I’ve read. For me, I think it’s because there is something comforting about food in general. Yeah, typically we eat because it’s a necessity and we need the nourishment. But it can also be an act of love, especially when you’re cooking someone’s favorite meal for them.

Now for me, the act of starting to cook is an effort in and of itself. I drag my feet getting started, and grumble the whole way. But once I have begun I enjoy it immensely and wonder why I don’t do it more often. All that said, my recommendations for today will all feature food in a major way.

cover of So We Meet Again

So We Meet Again by Suzanne Park

Okay, so admittedly this one is more like women’s fiction with a thread of romance but it’s close enough that I’m calling it. I love the idea of Jessie, a young woman, telling a bunch of men to eff off after getting fired and hearing them disparage absolutely everything about her. Also, rather than look at moving back home as a setback, she views it as a way to revive her love of cooking and her YouTube channel. There is also a handsome and helpful, albeit snarky, love interest to round it out.

cover of Nuts

Nuts by Alice Clayton

This is another story that features a woman having to return home after a career setback. Only this time it’s a Hollywood chef having to return home after a dairy related disaster to help keep her family’s diner from running into the ground. Again, I love that cooking is featured heavily in this and the fact that her family has a diner shows it was a lifelong love for Roxie.

Here are some recommendations for summer-fling romances.

This soulmate quiz is a fun way to pass the time.

Book cover purses!!

That’s all for this week friends! Here’s to the weekend looming on the horizon and being able to take more than a few steps back to relax. Next week I’m going to be kicking off my own celebration for #JenkinsJuly and anniversary of 1994’s Summer of Black Love. So, keep an eye out on that. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Gotta Love Sneaky Snarky Art

Hello and happy Monday. It’s the beginning of a new week and a new month. So here’s to this one being relatively chaos-free. But considering the world that we live in, that may not be possible at all. I still have a little bit of faith, though.

In things currently bringing me joy, I found a shade of blue and green lipstick that I am loving and have added it to my regular rotation.

Bookish Goods

Picture of Come for the Romance wall Print

Come For the Romance, Stay for the Smut Wall Print by PositivelyGB

I love the simplicity and sassiness of this print. It looks deceptively tame until you get up close and then you see the snark. It’s beautiful and it’s still. It’s perfect for a reading nook, corner, or hung between bookshelves in your personal library. As an added bonus, it is also very affordable. $5.00

New Releases

cover of Honey and Spice

Honey and Spice by Bolu Babalola

After being caught kissing Malaki, one of the men she has denounced as being being a “wastemen” on her show, student radio DJ Kiki decides the way to save face is by entering a fake relationship with him. Both are in it to salvage their reputations, but find themselves looking at each other through new eyes with each and every date they have.

cover of Heated

Heated by Naima Simone

When professional ‘unmatchmaker,’ meaning she does the breaking up for people, Zora finds out that her latest client is entertainment attorney Cyrus, she’s shocked to say the least. As is Cyrus when she shows up ready to read the break-up letter from his girlfriend. But as the two begin to have more encounters, they wonder if this twist of fate will actually work in their favor.

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

Riot Recommendations

I won’t lie, Past Me was planning on recommendations for today that were themed more towards the early days of America, specifically during the Revolutionary War, what with it being the Fourth of July. However, recent events have made me less patriotic than I normally am, and I don’t want to do that at all anymore, not even a little bit. And I won’t apologize for that.

Instead I’m going to recommend books where the main characters have decided they don’t want kids. The reasons don’t matter because, fictional or otherwise, it’s their choice. Much like it should be for anyone with a uterus, as they would be the one carrying the child. Because despite what others may think and say, you don’t stop being a parent when the child turns 18. You stop being a parent when you die. It’s a lifelong commitment so people should be 110% dedicated to this before they take that leap. And it sure as hell shouldn’t be a decision that is made for them by someone else.

Please note that this isn’t me saying, whether it’s in real life or in romance novels, that you can’t want to have or actually have kids. And to show this sometime in the near future, I will do recommendations for the surprise baby trope. But, again, the opposite is also true.

cover of Wild Rain

Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins

Spring is a BAMF for many reasons, such as her being able to live independently on her own, off the land, her practice of safe sex in a time where it was almost unheard of, and her being unapologetic about not wanting kids. And the male MC, Colton, is super supportive of this which is awesome to see, no matter the time period the story takes place in.

Cover of Not Another Family Wedding

Not Another Family Wedding by Jackie Lau

Natalie is another kickass female MC who doesn’t want kids at all and, in a move that is still somewhat unique for romance novels, has had an abortion in the past. Of course, this totally valid decision isn’t always something her romantic partners agree with, so she stays mainly single. That is, until she kisses her best friend at wedding. This is a romance so there is an HEA and Jackie Lau has stated herself that it is a child-free one, so again big ups for a supportive partner.

Here is the latest from Love’s Sweet Arrow Trope Tuesdays; Celebrity Romances!

This is a fun way to past the time; pick attractive guys and get told your type.

That’s all for you this Monday. I’ll be back Thursday with more romance-related updates for you. In the meantime you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Tote Bags, Begrudging Partners, and Friends to Lovers

We’ve almost made it through another week friends and, after the catastrophe that was last Friday, that’s a feat in and of itself. In these dark and challenging times, It is hard to find the light sometimes. And, even though there are tough times ahead, it is important to take time to take a moment and just enjoy the things, whether it’s picking up a book, losing yourself in a videogame for a few hours, or enjoying a nice cold adult beverage. Big hugs to everyone hurting right now.

I’m not sure about y’all but, as always, reading is still my consistent silent partner. So, in currently reading news, I have From Bad to Cursed, Chef’s Kiss, and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina on my shelf.

Bookish Goods

Picture of Trope Book Bag

Romance Reader Bookish Tote Bag by TheBookishCollective

I love this acrostic-inspired bag that matches some of romance’s popular tropes with a descriptive word that I know most of us resonate with. You can use it over and over again for the multiple trips to the library or bookstore, or just a day to the beach to read the books that you borrow or buy from said places. Sounds like winning all around to me. $16

New Releases

cover of The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride

The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride by Fenna Edgewood

Fleur is a woman who is determined to have her revenge on the man she believes is responsible for her family’s downfall. Lady Julia is a happy spinster who advocates for the less fortunate, ignoring the rumors that abound the ton about her preference of bed partners. When the two happen to meet, their destinies and their lifelong goals become entwined, leaving them with hope for their futures, possibly together.

cover of American Royalty

American Royalty by Tracey Livesay

When professor and Prince Jameson is tasked by the Queen to put on a concert in her husband’s memory, he resents being called in to take away attention from her unruly children and hires a singer known as ‘Duchess’. Too late, he realizes that Duchess is rapper, which is not the music that the Queen had in mind. But Duchess is also trying to get some good PR generated for her, so the two decide to make the best of this situation, while trying to ignore the attraction that is building between them.

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

Riot Recommendations

Since I’ve done enemies to lovers before, I decided that for today’s recommendations, the theme would be the friends to lovers variety. Personally, I am a big fan of this trope and always have been. I blame movies like When Harry Met Sally and not-so-much-guilty-pleasure Boys & Girls. Because honestly in this day and age, as long as it’s legal and moral, enjoy what you do because our current world is a hellscape.

Getting back on track, here are my recommendations for some friends to lovers books to add to your TBR.

cover of Bedding Lord Ned

Bedding Lord Ned by Sally MacKenzie

I’ve talked about this series before in the past and I still maintain that if you’re looking for some light historical reads with a bananas premise, it’s right up that alley. This one is about oldest son Ned, who has been a widower of four years and is looking to change that. Right when he decides this, his childhood friend Ellie—who has carried a torch for Ned for years—decides she give up the ghost and look to other suitors. Of course you know that they will end up together but the journey there, which also includes a red panty-stealing cat, is a hilarious romp.

cover of How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days

How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days by K.M. Jackson

This was one of my first reads of the year and I strongly feel that not enough people are talking about it. Is it a bananapants premise? Sure; but I mean, a lot of books out there have even zanier ones. Plus, I love the slow build between True and Lu, plus the descriptions of the various places and people they met. Because there is a lot of name dropping done here: who gets dropped? Well you have to read it to find out.

Apparently I knew a lot more about 90’s rom-coms than I thought which is nice to know. Take this quiz to find out where you rank.

Here is a round-up of some of the more popular romances that feature a celebrity

And if you’re looking for some reads that will make you want to fan yourself from more than the summer heat, check this list out.

And that’s all I have for you today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday and in the meantime you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until next time.
— PN Hinton

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Kissing Books

Comfy T-Shirt and Opposites Attract Romances

Happy Monday! Also, welcome to the last full week of June. Which, I won’t lie, was a weird sentence to write. We are almost halfway through 2022 and it seriously just boggles my mind. I don’t want to think too much more on that, so on to the rest of the newsletter!

Eat. Sleep. Romance Books T-shirt picture

Eat. Sleep. Romance Books T-Shirt by WaryaTshirts

Simple, to the point, and comfy. Those are three of my favorite things. And it comes in white and black as well, so if gray isn’t your preference, you have two other options. $19.

New Releases

cover of Sweeter Than Honey

Sweeter Than Honey by Joy Avery

In an effort to get her mother to stop worrying about her love life, baker and widow Rylee tells her that she has her eye on Canten, Sheriff of her small town. As often happens in these hamlets, gossip spreads like wildfire and soon the two are involved in a fake relationship to help save face. It’s not too long before they realize that maybe they’re not acting after all.

cover of Power: The Billionaire Bae

Power: The Billionaire Bae by Amber Ghe

After there is a security breach, CSO Power realizes he’s been working too hard and jumps on his motorcycle for a much needed break. While in Vegas, jilted/runaway bride Aspen is looking for a quick ride out of the drama that her life has become and hops on for the ride. Both ride off in the night, not realizing that their lives are about to become closely entwined.

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

Riot Recommendations

One trope I have always been a fan of, even back before I read ‘grown-up’ romance books was opposites attract. And not just because it was a catchy duet from the 80’s between Paula Abdul and an animated cat.

Sorry for the earwig that you may have now from that blast from the past. But, if I’m being honest, I’m only a little bit sorry.

Getting back on track, here are some of my recommendations for romance novels that help to highlight this trope since it’s still very much present in the romance world, even if it most frequently now shows up as ‘grumpy/sunshine’ romances. While these may also overlap, that isn’t necessarily the only opposite factored in.

cover of Trust Falling For You

(Trust) Falling For You by Charish Reid

A ‘fun professor’ is forced to team up with a co-worker that is strictly by the books at their work retreat. Not only that but, through a series of random events, they also end up as cabinmates for the duration of the retreat. Oh, yes, please. Sign me up for that. Plus, I still maintain that Yolanda is the sister of my soul with her avoidance of all the outside things.

cover of Up on the Roof

Up on the Roof by A.L. Brooks

Funnily enough this one is also a close proximity romance a! Rival neighbors become roommates when a storm displaces the normally quiet Lena and the not-so-quiet Megan offers her extra bedroom as a temporary home. As often happens with these types of scenarios, real feelings develop and bloom, leaving the situation ripe for romance.

Plan a date and get matched up with a leading man from a popular rom-com. I got Matty from 13 Going on 30 and I am not upset.

Chefs in romance novels certainly do seem to be popular this year.

I spaced last week and forgot to put up Love Sweet’s Arrow Trope Tuesday TikTok video last week, so here is Part 2 of their Fairy Tale Retellings recommendations.

And, speaking of LSA, if you missed out on celebrating their third anniversary celebration live, you can watch the replay here.

That’s it for today, friends. I’ll be back Thursday with more swag, new releases, and recommendations for you. In the meantime, you can give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Baking and Low-Angst Romances

Hello from last Saturday! Today was a busy, but fun, day for me. I got a haircut with a new style that I’m loving, then went book shopping and for sushi with a good friend. So, despite the heat, it was a great day.

I mentioned in my last newsletter that I would follow up on my book acquisitions, especially if I got the books I was looking for. And I lucked out and am happy to report that I got all three I wanted and put my birthday coupon to good use. All Signs Point To Yes, A Proposal They Can’t Refuse, and Chef’s Kiss have all been added to my home library and I can’t wait to devour them.

Romance Trope Pouch

Love Your Shelf Accessory Pouch by CardiganLibrarian

This is a perfect little pouch to hold anything you can imagine. Bookmarks, pens, pencils, etc…the possibilities are limitless, much like our love of some of these romance tropes. Plus, you can never have too many of these, right? $18+

New Releases

cover of Accidental Love

Accidental Love by Carmen Richter

After finding out that her current paramour was married the whole time they were together, music manager Love is pretty much ready to give up on the emotion altogether. Then she meets Willow, her latest client, and wonders if she is in danger of falling head over heels again, all the while wondering if her luck will be different this time.

cover of Fake It Till You Bake It

Fake It Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley

Jada returns home as a vilified woman after turning down a proposal on national TV. While recovering from this whole experience, she starts working at Sugar Blitz, a bakery run by former football star Donovan. When a reporter mistakenly thinks they are a couple, the two decide to fake a relationship to help boost the business and salvage Jada’s career and find themselves developing very real feelings.

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

Riot Recommendations

Sometimes, you just want a nice calm, low stakes romance. At least, I know I do after the last couple of weeks I’ve had and these books seem to fit that bill.

Cover of soft on soft by em ali

Soft on Soft by Mina Waheed

As someone who considers herself an ambivert, I can understand the struggle that June faces wanting to stay inside with her cats but also wanting to occasionally venture outside to meet people. Her relationship with Selena sounds wonderfully balanced since she appears to be more outgoing but is also understanding of those moments when June needs her downtime.

cover of When Tara Met Farah

When Tara Met Farah by Tara Pammi

I’m a sucker for a good old sunshine/grump romance and that is what this is. What begins as a business relationship of reciprocity quickly develops into a mutual attraction and love as both women realize that, no matter where you are in life, love can change everything.

Here is a list of some awesome fictional parties I’m sure we’d all love to attend.

Check out this list of recommended must-reads from Harlequin’s long history.

And, if you like your romances a little bit steamier, here is a list of 15 recommendations that may be right up your alley.

It may be too hot for some to go to the beach IRL, but you can visit the coast between the pages of these books.

That’s all she wrote for today friends. I’ll be back on Monday with a fresh edition and, as always, if you need more of me in the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading!

Categories
Kissing Books

Romance Tarot & Trans Romances

Quick note before we get into it: It was brought to my attention that one of the authors I mentioned last week is problematic. I usually try to be better about that and apologize for my oversight and will endeavor to do better in the future in that as well as trying to make sure representation is more balanced and applicable.

It’s Monday again, which means it’s the beginning of another work week. I know it’s cliched to say it, but if I had known how tedious the life cycle of a human adult was, I really would have appreciated my time off more as a child.

At least I have something to look forward to since it’s my birthday later this week! Hence my trip over the weekend to buy books with my birthday coupon. Since I’m writing to you from the past though, I won’t be able to tell you what books I got until Thursday’s edition. But I know what I want so I’m still excited!

picture of Romance Reader Tarot Card t-shirt

Romance Reader Tarot Card by anwdigital

I love, love, LOVE, this shirt. I have always been fascinated with Tarot cards and the art on the various versions. And this shirt combines two of my life-long loves, so you know it’s a winner in my book. It also comes in two other colors if gray isn’t your bag. $25+

New Releases

cover of Takeoff

Takeoff by Evelyn Sola

Determined to keep her life exactly the way it is, Vickie has sworn off men. Despite this promise to herself, she finds herself drawn to rising NBA star Christian, and the feeling is mutual. He is certain that Vickie is exactly what he and his son need in their lives to help complete their family and sets to work to show her this any way he can.

cover of The Life Coach

The Life Coach by Sienna Waters

Alice is the life coach hired by a friend of Vivien’s to help get her life back on track. Vivien is perfectly happy being curmudgeonly though, and so the battle between the grumpy and sunshine begins. But, as they spend more time together, they find an undeniable attraction building between them which may be doomed before it really starts when it comes out that Alice isn’t actually a life coach.

For even more new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Another almost still completely marginalized group in romance are trans people. Again, a lot of that has to do with intolerance, closedmindedness, and other words to describe unpleasant individuals who want the world to be monochromatic and heterosexual, even though it’s never been either. That said, it’s only in recent years that trans people weren’t used as some sort of horrible plot device and I am happy to see them being represented in a more positive light. With that said, here are the recommendations I have for you today.

For the Love of April French book cover

For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes

While I initially had some reservations about this book— the BDSM tends to be outside my comfort zone— I ended up loving it and consider it an underrated gem of 2021. I found that the relationship developed at a believable pace, as we were able to read about the months as they went by. Plus, both April and Dennis knew that they were both broken on some levels and willing to accept each other and help to repair one another. Utterly amazing.

cover of Drag Me Up by RM Virtues

Drag Me Up by R.M Virtues

I’m a sucker for a good Hades and Persephone retelling and always will be. I also love all the representation here, with a Black demisexual Hades and a Black trans Persephone. What’s not to love about it?

Here is a round-up of some of the best LGBTQ+ romance novels this year. Please note that not all of these have been released just yet.

Here are 72 romances that have either already been released or are on their way to us this summer.

I had way too much fun with this Disney Love Triangle Quiz. Friendly tip— if you see a movie option that has been remade, go for the newer version. *wink*

Thanks again to author Jackie Lau for compiling this list of LGBTQ+ romances by Asian authors.

A new digital book box subscription is headed our way soon and I can’t wait!

That’s all for today friends. I’ll be back on Thursday with more updates, bookish swap, releases, and recommendations. In the meantime you can give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading until then!

Categories
Kissing Books

Stars, Second Chances, and Fake Dating

Hello and welcome back! We’re almost at the end of another week and I can’t wait for Friday at quitting time. I have a fairly busy weekend planned with a hair appointment and then a Barnes & Noble trip to use my birthday coupon. I have an idea of what I’m going to get but I’ll have to wait and see if the books are in stock. No worries though; I’ll update you next week on my haul, one way or another.

In reading news, still working through Part of Your World and I also started Count Your Lucky Stars and am super excited for it.

Constellation Bookmark Holder

Constellation Bookmark Holder by FabricBound

I am certain I am not the only book dragon guilty of hoarding bookmarks for all the various books I buy. Sometimes it can be hard to keep track of them which is where useful items like this come in handy. Plus, constellations, because nothing beats looking at the night sky, no matter how you do it. Was I drawn to this by the book I mentioned earlier? Probably but it’s pretty and functional, so it truly is a win/win. $15

New Releases

cover of Latte Dreams

Latte Dreams by Sharon Blount

High school sweethearts Robert and Vandross seemed to have it all until the unexpected loss of their baby. Years later, they find out that their child is still alive and was stolen by the doctor that delivered her. It’s a race to try to find and reclaim their daughter, giving them all a second chance at the family they wanted. But has too much time passed? And will it be too late for all involved parties to actually have a happily ever after?

cover of Reclaiming Love

Reclaiming Love by Amanda Radley

When Sarah’s tech-giant employee moves her to a Scottish island to work on their next project, she fabricates a fake relationship to her mother to explain why she’s suddenly taken off. As soon as she arrives, she finds that her cottage is more of a fixer-upper which leads her to ask Pippa, the local handywoman, for help. After her mother surprises her with a visit, Sarah calls on Pippa to pretend to be her girlfriend, which leads to the women becoming much closer than they had originally wanted or planned.

For even more new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.

Riot Recommendations

Today’s recommendations feature bisexual men. As severe as the biphobia and bi-erasure is for women, it’s just as bad for bisexual men. They are just as valid, just as important, and just as worthy of love as anyone else and shouldn’t be made to feel ashamed for who they are attracted to and who they end up with. To quote popular Tiktoker Capri, it’s about attraction not action. So, even if you’re in a ‘straight passing’ relationship, you’re still bisexual and should be proud of it. I see y’all.

cover of Sweet on the Greek

Sweet on the Greek by Talia Hibbert

You had me at Talia with this one. No shame; I have never been disappointed with one of her books and she is great at making me cry, both from laughing and feels. This one includes fake dating, a football hero, and a plus sized heroine. It really does have it all.

Cover of Illegal Contact

Illegal Contact by Santino Hassell

A bad boy American football player put on house arrest and stuck inside with his personal assistant who has been tasked with keeping him in line? Sounds like the perfect recipe for a chance at romance.

cover of a prince on paper by alyssa cole

A Prince on Paper by Alyssa Cole

I know I have recommended this book a handful of times before, but I couldn’t let this opportunity pass without mentioning my sweet Johan again. He is just the prefect cinnamon roll hero and I adore him.

And that’s all I have for you this fine Thursday. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter. In the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801.

Categories
Kissing Books

Get Ready for Even More Pride Reads

Hello and happy Monday. We’re ready to conquer another week and hopefully come out on the other end unscathed. I hope that your weekend was restful, relaxing, and cool as it is still very, very hot outside. Once again, we’re hitting triple digits in my area and we’re not even anywhere close to the dog days of summer.

Since I’m actively avoiding going out in said heat and have yet to make it to a pool, I’ve been staying inside and working on my TBR pile. I started Second Nature by Jae and am still working on Part of Your World. In genres other than romance, I’m reading My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry for my book club.

Paranormal Romance Hat

Paranormal Romance Embroidered Hat by MyBookGoddess

If you absolutely have to go outside, and you’re looking for a hat to help keep the sun out of your eyes, might I recommend this one? It’s perfect for blocking those UV waves and showing your love for PNR. $34 and comes in four colors.

New Releases

cover of The Governess Gambit

The Governess Gambit by Elise Marion

After being publicly ruined, Theodosia gives up her dreams of making a titled match and settles for a job as a governess. However, her charges prove to be unruly, which leads her to write a stern letter to their father. Lord James is outraged by this letter and is prepared to sack her until he lays eyes on her. Then he realizes that she may be exactly what both his he and his children need.

cover of A Song of Silver and Gold

A Song of Silver And Gold by Melissa Karibian

After the murder of her brother and attack on her home’s harbor, Princess Kaelyn takes action. Disguised as a man, she sets out, intent on taking out sirens completely. Due to negligence that lead to the death of the princess, Siren Warrior Aqeara enters into a bargain with the sea witch to carve out Kaelyn’s heart to resurrect the dead princess. When the two cross paths, they find themselves attracted to each other, something that is made further complicated by the fact that they are also bound and determined to be each other’s end.

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

Riot Recommendations

In keeping with celebrating Pride month, my recommendations today are both M/M romances that also both center around found families of sorts. I love this trope since it is always hopeful and we could all use a little bit more hope every now and then.

cover of Learned Reactions

Learned Reactions by Jayce Ellis

This book has almost every single one of my favorite tropes. Fake dating. Friends to lovers, with a side of years of a secret attraction. Plus, a person coming together to do what is best for his family. *swoon* Delightful and of course there will be a HEA since it’s a romance. You gotta love it.

cover image of The Hate Project by Kris Ripper

The Hate Project by Kris Ripper

I’ve been talking about this book since I read it and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon. This was the first romance I read where both the characters are grumps and still make it work. I also really appreciate how it touches on anxiety and how it can make a person feel all alone even when they’re surrounded by well-meaning friends. Seriously, if you haven’t read this one yet, you’re missing out.

This week’s Trope Tuesday from Love’s Sweet Arrow was Part One for fairy tale retellings.

Stay tuned for how I plan to pay homage to this momentous moment in Romancelandia history next month.

Frolic’s Book Crush this month is Never Been Kissed by Timothy Janovsky.

Here are some recommendations from Jess about what to read this month for Pride.

Seriously though, I can’t give or get enough book recs for celebrating Pride.

Check out this video of Ruby Barrett unboxing copies of The Romance Recipe. Also, not going to lie…kinda jealous of her hype person. *wink*

And that’s all I have for you this fine Monday. I’ll be back on Thursday and, in the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Weddings, Bi-Romances, and Recs for Geminis

Well, here we are back again looking at the prospect of another weekend. Last week was a bit rough for me, so I spent most of the following weekend being a hermit and staying in my apartment. This week though, I am going to see a Gilbert & Sullivan show (masked of course); so, I’m looking forward to that. I hope that you also have something fun to look forward to this weekend, even if it is just staying in and relaxing.

Picture of Dark Romance Reader Tumbler

Dark Romance Reader Wine Tumbler by BooksMakeMeBrainy

This one is for my dark romance lovers out there. I love the aesthetic of this as well as the message. Plus, it works wonders for keeping your wine chilled during the hot summer nights while you sit on a porch, reading and sipping. $14

New Releases

cover of It's Just Business

It’s Just Business by Remy Marie

Arthur is a ruthless real estate investor who has no time to worry about the people behind the businesses he buys out. This changes when he meets Bridget, the owner of the family-owned hotel he is currently trying to buy, and falls in love with her.

cover of Iced Heart

Iced Heart by Ariel Marie

In a world where vampires have taken over, Alima is determined to not bend to the bloodsucker’s will. Then she is chosen to be the wife of the daughter of a vampire king. Lethia, the vampiric princess, is intrigued by her new wife and the idea of taming her. As a new war looms in the horizon, will the two women take a chance on a love they didn’t think they needed?

Be sure to subscribe to the New Books newsletter for a longer list of new releases.

Riot Recommendations

Keeping with the celebrating Pride theme, my recommendations for today are all books that feature bisexual protagonists. Remember that bisexuality is a valid sexual identity. They’re not greedy, going through a phase, or looking for attention. They are who they are and deserving of love, regardless of who they end up with.

Cover of Wrong to Need You

Wrong to Need You by Alisha Rai

I will admit I was surprised about how much I enjoyed this book, since it’s typically a trope I avoid. I know that a sibling’s widow/widower is a bit different than an ex, but they still run in the same vein. Still, I enjoyed reading about Jackson returning home trying to pick up the pieces of his life after being erroneously viewed as a criminal for so long and Sadia adjusting to life as a single mom and an attraction to her brother-in-law. It’s still a complicated situation but, as always, Alisha handles it beautifully.

Payback's a Witch cover

Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper

Okay, so I know I just finished this and mentioned it but I’m going to do it again because I really loved this book so much. It wasn’t just the witchy vibes of Thistle Grove, although I do want to go to the there. I loved the relationship between Emmy and Talia and how it developed. I especially enjoyed Emmy’s self-discovery journey and Talia’s cinnamon roll goodness. You won’t be disappointed with this one.

Weddings are a perfect setting for books and this list proves it. Please note that, while not every book here is a romance, they do take up the lion’s share of spaces so I felt it was appropriate to include here.

Pick your favorite “Selling Sunset” star, and get a book recommendation.

I’m a trivia nerd so I really enjoyed finding out these random facts about some of the most beloved rom-coms out there.

It’s officially Gemini season and here are some romances perfect for those born under the sign of the twins.

Who wouldn’t want to listen to a conversation between Beverly Jenkins and Katee Robert?

Here’s a nice round-up of some Filipino romances.

And that’s all I have for you today. I hope that this weekend is fun and relaxing for you and, as always, full of reading. I’ll be back Monday and in the meantime you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Happy Pride Month!

Hello and welcome back to the Kissing Books newsletter! I hope that this last weekend was just the recharge you needed to take on this week. And Happy Pride Month, of course! Whether you’ve been out for years, are in the process of coming out, or still in the closet, know that you matter and you’re important. And I’m glad you’re here no matter what. Big hugs to you all, along with the true allies.

I recently finished an eARC of The Romance Recipe and lemme tell y’all that you’re in for a treat with that one when it comes out next month. I’m taking my time getting through Payback’s a Witch since it’s so delightful, and I also started Part of Your World. The baby goat on the cover totally got me.

Proud Romance Reader T-Shirt

Proud Romance Reader T-Shirt by TheDearWriterCo

I love the simplicity of this shirt. It’s direct and to the point, and it looks comfy as all get out. I could see myself lounging around in this with some leggings or shorts and reading all day. And it comes in a variety of colors as well! $23+

New Releases

cover of A Proposal They Can't Refuse

A Proposal They Can’t Refuse by Natalie Caña

Kamilah and Liam have roughly three things in common. Both are trying to save their respective family businesses, both are being blackmailed by their grandfathers into marrying each other to do so, and both have a mutual hatred of the other. When they decide to enter into a fake engagement to fool the two older men, they find themselves feeling a very real attraction.

cover of The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes

The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes by Cat Sebastian

Marian has just shot her husband and even though he had it coming (cue song), she knows that society won’t see it that way. Her only hope is known criminal Rob who she left tied up in a roadside inn hours earlier. When she returns to get him and promises him five hundred pounds if he can help her out of her predicament, they two embark on an adventurous and romantic journey through London with both of their pasts fast closing in behind them.

Be sure to subscribe to the New Books newsletter for a longer list of new releases.

Riot Recommendations

I’m one who tries to read diversely all year around but I also make a concerted effort to read specific books during specific months. So I will be reading more than a few LGBTQ books this month. As I mentioned in a recent article, I have gravitated more towards Sapphic romance as of late, so that is going to be the theme of my recommendations for today as well.

cover of once ghosted twice shy

Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole

When Likotsi runs into Fabiola on a stalled subway cart months after being ghosted, she agrees to one cup of tea if for no other reason than to find out what happened those months before. This novella is part of Cole’s Reluctant Royals series and was my first Sapphic romance novel but it certainly wasn’t my last! I really enjoyed this second chance romance that showed that you can forgive and move past hurt, especially when you know the full story.

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

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

When Poppy finds herself unexpectedly pregnant from a one-night stand with an ex, she has no idea what to do. When she make the decision to keep the baby, she joins a knitting circle to help prepare for the baby clothes wise and gets closer to Rhiannon. I loved this book and I don’t think it’s gotten near enough love since its release last year. I found Poppy to be believable and endearing since she ultimately is doing what is best for her and the baby and can’t recommend it enough.

Be sure to also check out the I Heart SapphFic Pride Collection!

Make your way through this quiz and get matched up with a Marvel heartthrob.

I enjoyed this thread of books described like a r/relationship Reddit post.

Here’s the latest Trope Tuesday recommendations from Love’s Sweet Arrow.

And here’s a round-up of some of this year’s released and yet to come rom-coms.

And that’s all I have for you today. I’ll be back in your mailboxes on Thursday and in the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading and stay hydrated!