Author: P.N. Hinton

Ranch-Style Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 19, 2024

Sponsored by

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 from your day 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.

This weekend is Independent Bookstore Day! All book dragons rejoice! I had a blast last year celebrating and I’m looking forward to it. This year’s plans are nowhere near as ambitious. I’m only planning on visiting a handful of stores with a cap of only one book at each stop. Will I stick to this? Only time will tell, but I’ll update y’all next time on the outcome.

Bookish Goods

I Want a Cowboy Sticker by BlissfullyBookedCo

I’ve been reading romances for a long time, but I’ve always had a soft spot for cowboys. It could be due to being a Southern girl — there’s just something about someone who knows how to work a ranch that is just oh-so-attractive. The price for this sticker starts at $3.

New Releases

Fake It Till You Make It by Siera London

When bubbly Amarie ends up stranded in a small town, her only work option is with the local and grumpy veterinarian Eli. When Eli names Amarie as an investor to keep the practice from going into foreclosure, the two set aside their differences to save the clinic while also trying to ignore the connection that is rapidly developing between them.

Finders Keepers by Sandra Kitt

Olivia never expected to find millions of dollars hidden in the walls of the house her late aunt left her. While this money would bring a welcomed change to her life, she wants to be sure it’s on the up and up. When FBI agent Sloan shows up to question her about the money, there is an instant mutual attraction. But, both are aware that they need to solve the mystery of the money before anything permanent can happen.

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

Riot Recommendations

In keeping with today’s bookish good theme, I’m recommending some cowboy/rancher romances. Enjoy!

A Thorn in the Saddle by Rebekah Weatherspoon

When Lily-Grace meets Jesse for the first time, she is instantly at odds with him. Not only is he trying to prevent her widowed father from dating his grandmother, but he is also extremely hot-tempered. However, when she sees a more vulnerable side of Jesse at a community date auction, she begins to see him with different eyes. Soon, the two find themselves drawing closer to one another and a happily ever after neither expected.

Tipping the Barrel by BA Tortuga

When an accident leaves barrel racer Cheyenne without her horse, she returns home to tend to her external and internal scars. This also brings her into contact with first love and cowgirl Evie, and she wonders if this unfortunate accident will lead to a second chance with her. However, Evie hasn’t forgotten the heartbreak she felt when Cheyenne left her behind and isn’t sure she’s willing to risk her heart again.

Just for the Summer is one of my current reads because I can’t seem to get enough of Abby Jimenez. If you’re also looking for some read-a-likes, check out this list here.

Plan a vacation and get your BookTok trope.

A mobile romance only bookstore? Yes, please!

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

Kissing Books

Journalists in Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 17, 2024

Sponsored by

I am firmly in a chaotic reading state. I’m currently reading six different books. And most of them have been in progress for a couple of weeks. This is in no way a reflection of those books either: I’m just having trouble not getting distracted by other books. And then there are non-bookish distractions to contend with as well. That said, one bookish grace I gave myself this year was taking as long as I like with a book, no matter what.

Bookish Goods

TBR Cart Sticker by FatedPages

I love everything about this sticker. I am a big fan of library carts. Once I have more space, I’ll be getting more of these for my book collection. And yes, my personal one is as full to the brim as the ones pictured here, something I am perfectly fine with. $3

New Releases

One Last Word by Suzanne Park

One Last Word is an app created by Sara that sends messages on your behalf to any person of your choosing upon your death. When a woman with her same name passes away, it releases all of the still-living Sara’s messages, including one to her high-school crush Harry. Shortly after this occurrence, Sara learns that she’s been accepted into a venture capital mentorship, with her mentor being none other than Harry. This forces Sara to face the effects of this error, but she may find herself surprised by the results this technical snag has.

The Bootlegger’s Bounty by Adriana Herrera

Yearning to be free from her controlling family, jazz singer Rosalía strikes up a deal with a rum runner and gangster. She knows she is risking going from the frying pan to the fire. But she will do anything to be free to make her own choices. She also can’t deny the mutual desire is present between the three of them or the curiosity about where it may lead.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Columnist Day. We’re used to getting our news much quicker in this modern day and age compared to the past. That doesn’t negate that journalism is still hard work. In honor of today, I’m going to highlight a few books where the main character is a journalist. Enjoy!

Topaz by Beverly Jenkins

Reporter Kate is hot on the trail of a con artist who is known for preying on elderly Black people. During her venture, she finds herself in unexpected danger and is rescued by Dix, a Black Seminole Marshal. Dix is there at the behest of Kate’s father to bring the young woman home. On the way there, the two powerful personalities fight against the attraction simmering between them that threatens to ignite them both.

Crossing the Line by Kimberly Kincaid

To help her best friend’s magazine, photojournalist Scarlett agrees to a fluff piece featuring Cross Creek farm. The reason for this article? Bad boy Eli and his shenanigans that have netted his family farm some bad press. During their time together, Scarlett discovers there’s more to Eli than what meets the eye, and the two draw even closer.

Check out this list of ‘late bloomer’ romances.

If you’ve been yearning for some small-town romances, then this is perfectly timed.

That’s all she wrote for today friends. I’ll back in your inboxes Monday and in the meantime, you can find me posting over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

The Ides of April

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 12, 2024

Sponsored by

The saying goes that we should beware of the Ides of March, but most of us likely dread the Ides of April more because it’s Tax Day. We ended up owing, which has been par for the course for the last few years. Such is the life of an adult in this country. It’s a matter of gritting my teeth and moving on. Whatever your situation this year was, I hope it was as stressless as possible.

Bookish Goods

picture of My Weekend is Fully Booked Glass Mug

My Weekend is Fully Booked Glass Mug by KellieHCrafts

Truth in advertising right here! Between all the books I’ve obtained in the last couple of weeks, I could do nothing but read all weekend and still barely make a dent in my TBR pile. That said, there are worse issues to have, so I’ll take it. And, $13 is not a bad price for a gorgeous cup to drink out of while you read.

New Releases

When I Think Of You by Myah Ariel

Kaliya and Danny met in college and were instantly attracted to each other. Seven years later, Kaliya is stuck in a dead-end job as a receptionist for a movie studio while Danny is in the upper echelons of Hollywood. When he offers her a chance to work with him on his latest project, she throws caution to the wind and accepts, hoping it will help get her to where she wants to be. However, working together makes those old feelings quickly resurface, leaving Kaliya to wonder if this is a second chance for her to get the career and the man she wants.

Late Bloomer by Mazey Eddings

After Opal wins the lottery, she quits her job and buys a flower farm. When she arrives at the Thistle and Bloom, she is surprised to find it occupied. Pepper says she is the actual owner of the farm and has no intention of leaving. The two opposites devise a plan that could result in Opal recovering her monetary losses and Pepper keeping the farm. As they work towards that goal, the two women grow increasingly more attracted to one another and wonder if this unexpected situation has set them up for a happily ever after.

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

Riot Recommendations

A couple of weeks ago, I talked about the marriage-of-convenience trope, which is one of the standards in romance. Another trope that is adjacent to it is that of the mail-order spouse. It could also be argued that it is in the sphere of the strangers-to-lovers trope, but with matrimony involved. Either way, it’s a staple.

Now, typically this only included mail-order brides, but a few grooms can be found, like one of the ones listed here. I will say that this trope tends to be more dominant in Westerns, but if I find or hear of one outside that, I will include it in a future recommendation. As for now, let’s get to the books.

Hearth and Home by Rebel Carter

The first time Julian sees Violet, he’s taken away by her beauty. However, he doesn’t believe in love at first sight and resolves to keep it platonic. When an unknown person places an advert for a husband for Violet, Julian steps up to the role of mail-order groom to help save her from embarrassment. Once married, the two quickly begin to fall in love. But, when a misunderstanding arises, it threatens to destroy their relationship and newfound love permanently.

cover of The Cowboy's E-mail Order Bride

The Cowboy’s E-Mail Order Bride by Cora Seton

When Ethan’s friend, Rob, places an advertisement for a wife as a joke, Ethan is left wondering how to break the news to the woman who shows up. What he doesn’t know is that Autumn is only there to use the experience to write an article. Neither expected to fall in love with one another, and when they do, they’re left wondering how to come clean with one another and still have a chance.

And that’s all I have for y’all this fine Monday. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday, and in the meantime, you can find me floating around on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Foodie Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 10, 2024

Sponsored by

Last weekend, I attended a discussion between Kelis Rowe and Farrah Rochon at a local bookstore where they talked about Farrah’s latest YA release, Fates Be Changed. This new Twisted Tale presents a world where Brave‘s Merida took the cake intended for her mother and the drastic changes this seemingly small change caused. I had a great time listening to these two wonderfully talented authors discuss their love of Disney, the writing process, and everything in between. In addition to Farrah’s book, I picked up Kelis’s YA debut Finding Jupiter. All in all, it was a good bookish weekend for me!

Bookish Goods

Book Lover Decal by SoPeachyDecals

Recently, I got a much-needed car wash. So, to reward myself, I finally put some decals that I got last Christmas on the back of my car. If you want a decal for a car, laptop, or anything else, this one is perfect to showcase your love of reading. The prices for this start at $6.50 and increase depending on the desired size.

New Releases

Jump Ball by Kasha Thompson

When Sariah is bequeathed the Las Vegas Ramblers following her father’s death, she has no clue how to be a basketball team owner. As such, she turns to Coach Justus for help, assistance that he is all too happy to give. When the pair work together to get the team to the championship, they also have to deal with an unexpected, if not completely unwelcomed, attraction.

cover of Aubrey McFadden is Never Getting Married

Aubrey McFadden is Never Getting Married by Georgia Beers

Aubrey has five weddings to attend this year and is not looking forward to that particular gauntlet. One of the reasons for this is the knowledge that Monica, the woman who convinced Aubrey’s fiancé to call off their engagement, will also be in attendance. Still, she is determined to share in her five friends’ special days. So, she resolves to ignore Monica, and the heart flutters that she gives Aubrey, until the last wedding is done.

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

Riot Recommendations

Tomorrow is Grilled Cheese Day! Believe it or not, growing up, I didn’t eat a lot of grilled cheese sandwiches. As an adult, I have a newfound appreciation for them, especially the “fancy” ones. I recently ate a green apple and Muenster sandwich that was beyond amazing.

That said, there aren’t a lot of romances dedicated to the awesomeness of grilled cheese. The only one I can think of offhand is The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich, which was also the first book that Trisha and Jess picked this year for the When in Romance book club. However, regular readers know how much I love my foodie romances, which is what I decided to focus on for today’s recommendations. Bon appétit!!

A Taste of Sage by Yaffa S. Santos

Lumi is a chef who also has the power of knowing how a person feels by tasting their cooking. After her fusion restaurant fails, she takes the sous chef position at one of Julien’s establishments. The celebrity chef, known for his charismatic smile that houses a vicious tongue, ends up being Lumi’s complete foil in the kitchen. However, when Lumi samples one of Julien’s dishes, she is hit with a wave of emotions she hadn’t expected. This causes her to look at Julien with new eyes and open herself up to the possibility of love.

Chef’s Choice by TJ Alexander

Luna is a trans woman who has just lost her job. Jean-Pierre is a trans man who needs a fake girlfriend to inherit his family’s culinary business. When Jean-Pierre agrees to pay Luna to take on that role and help him cook their way through a gauntlet of family recipes, she happily accepts his offer. What neither expected was to have real feelings develop during their fake relationship.

Take this quiz to find out your dating persona.

Check out some of these baseball romances.

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

Kissing Books

Stars in Their Eyes: Astronomy-Related Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 5, 2024

Sponsored by

It’s Eclipse Day, y’all! There was a period growing up when I was fascinated with any and everything having to do with the solar system. So, Younger Me is totally geeking out about this. If you have the opportunity to view it, I hope that you enjoy it and stay safe at the same time.

Bookish Goods

Books & Pajamas T-Shirt by

There are no lies detected here; there is only truth. I’m sure many of us channel this exact energy. Plus, this shirt looks super soft, which is always a bonus in my book. $14.00

New Releases

The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton

The first time Amerie and Vincent met, she spilled coffee all over him. The second time, she claimed he was her boyfriend to avoid an awkward confrontation with her ex. To her surprise, Vincent goes along with the charade. Later, he reveals he did it because he also needs a fake girlfriend to accompany him to future family events to help get his well-meaning but overwhelming family off his back about his job. As the two play out the charade at his family’s cabin, Amerie finds herself falling in love with Vincent as the days pass. But, she is still reeling from the pain of her last break-up and isn’t sure she is ready to take another risk at love.

Love From the Sidelines by Tuesday Harper

In the past, Drey and Trinity shared a short but passionate relationship. But, when a misunderstanding occurs, it comes to a sudden and unsatisfactory end. So, when Drey is named the new football coach of the team Trinity’s son is on, the latter is less than pleased. However, Drey believes there is still hope for them and is determined to convince the older woman to give their relationship a second chance.

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

Riot Recommendations

Vincent, the male MC from The Kiss Countdown, is an astronaut training for a mission during the duration of the novel. That’s one of the reasons his family, particularly his mother, is so worried about him. Between that and the eclipse, it’s the perfect time to share some romances with an astronomy-related theme. Enjoy!

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

Even If the Sky Is Falling, edited by Taj McCoy

In this anthology, we meet six couples who seek immediate shelter when an emergency warning siren accidentally goes off during a meteor shower. During this period of proximity, previously ignored feelings that need to be reconciled rise to the surface. Once the alleged danger has passed, they must decide what the future holds for them.

The Governess Game by Tessa Dare

After losing her chronometer, Alexandra has little choice but to take on a governess position. Her charges are the nieces of well-known rake Chase, heir to the dukedom. When Alexandra tries to make Chase see he needs to settle down to take care of the girls, he decides to show her that this is a futile effort by seducing her. However, he soon finds himself caring more about his nieces and their governess, and wonders if his philandering days are over.

If you’re feeling in the mood for more historical romances, check out some of the offerings here.

And that’s all I have for y’all this Monday. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday, and in the meantime, you can find me over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. You can also still occasionally see me poke my head in over on the bird up under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Mistaken Identities: Twin Edition

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date April 3, 2024

Sponsored by

Last weekend, I went to a local Renaissance Fair with my spouse and another friend. It had been a couple of years since I had gone to one, so I was very excited. And this particular one is fast becoming one of my favorites because it’s not overly crowded and small enough to enjoy in one day. I didn’t go completely overboard with spending this time, which is always a plus. One thing I did snag was a cute little hair dragon, which I will share below. As for now, onto the rest of the newsletter!

Bookish Goods

art of an octopus surrounded by books with the text "never too many books"

Never Too Many Books Octopus by QuillandCauldronDTX

I’m sure more than a few of us can relate to this aquatic cutie. It is a fact of life that there are never too many books. There’s just not enough time to read them all. $24

New Releases

Beyond Expectations by Natasha Allen

Serena and Rhett grew up in different worlds. She was the daughter of a mechanic who had to put in the hard work and dedication to become a lawyer, while he was born into money. When their paths cross, there is an undeniable spark between them. But, despite being drawn together, both are aware that their differences may prove too difficult to overcome.

Only and Forever by Chloe Liese*

Tallulah is a cynical author who needs help with the romantic thread in her latest novel. Viggo is a die-hard romantic who needs help with the impending opening of his bookstore. When they realize that they each have a specific set of skills that would be helpful to the other’s problem, they agree to be temporary roommates/co-workers. The close quarters quickly lead to the simmering attraction between them fully igniting. However, both have very different views on love and marriage, which makes it difficult for a happily ever after to be on the horizon for them.

*currently reading

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

Riot Recommendations

Today’s recommendations have an oddly specific theme: mistaken identities that are centered around identical twins swapping places. This trope tends to be more prevalent in historical romances, but there are a few contemporary gems that can be found. I have one of each for your reading consideration today. Enjoy!

Scoring with the Wrong Twin by Naima Simone

When her vivacious twin asks her to swap places with her for a modeling shoot, shy Sophia reluctantly agrees. There, she meets handsome tight-end Zephirin, and there is an instant and mutual attraction. But, as he thinks she’s her sister, their initial meeting is tinged with deception. As the two get to know each other better, Sophia knows that she will eventually need to tell Zeph the truth, even if it results in her missing out on her own happily ever after.

The Husband Trap by Tracy Anne Warren

When the spoiled Jeanette refuses to go through with her marriage, her wallflower twin sister Violet steps in for the role of bride. Soon, Violet finds herself having to navigate high society as Duchess to the handsome Adrian while simultaneously keeping her real identity a secret. Because while Adrian may be happy with how his marriage turned out, all that may change should he discover which twin he married.

If you’re looking for even more mistaken/secret identities, this list has you covered.

Behold my tiny hair dragon! As of now, they’re nameless. But I’m thinking of something that starts with “S”.

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 find me posting over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Hello April!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date March 29, 2024

Sponsored by

Want to make your book club the best club? Sign up for our In the Club newsletter. In the Club will deliver recommendations for the best books to discuss in your book clubs. From buzzy new releases to brilliant throwbacks, the books highlighted in this newsletter will drive your book club discussions. We’ll also share some book club-friendly recipes and interesting bookish updates from all over. If you become a paid subscriber, you get even more recommendations, plus community features. In other words, we’ll keep you well-met, well-read, and well-fed. Sign up today!

The last few weeks around me have been wild, weather-wise. Last week, two chilly, rainy, and dreary days were promptly followed by a cool sunshiny one. One would think that I would be used to this type of flip-flopping after spending most of my life in this area, but one would be wrong. I’m hoping the cool sunshine stays for a bit rather than move to the heated inferno that is our summer weather, because I can certainly do without that arriving before its time.

Bookish Goods

Enamel Trope Pin by TheSnarkyCompany

This beautiful enamel pin displays some of the best-loved tropes in romance. What more could a bookish person ask for? $14.00

New Releases

Merc by B. Love

Merc has decided to retire from the criminal life and focus on taking care of his son and mother. Neo is a woman who, due to an experience in the past, has sworn off dating men with children. When she needs help, she ends up with Merc as her protector. They have every reason not to give in to the mutual attraction that exists between them. But the close quarters make it difficult to remember and have them wondering if they should take another chance at love with one another.

All the Hype by S Bolanos

When Dylan needs a plus-one for his company’s annual retreat, he naturally turns to his best friend, Jimmy, to act as his partner. Jimmy agrees to the ruse, even though it revives feelings he thought were long buried. As the days pass, the chemistry between the two men builds, blurring the lines between a platonic and romantic relationship. However, a secret from Jimmy’s past could end up destroying both and threaten the possible future that lies ahead.

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

Riot Recommendations

This TikTok came across my FYP and I felt the sting of an accurate attack. As much as I love the enemies-to-lovers trope, I can’t deny that if I were one, it would be friends-to-lovers. That will always run a close second in terms of my favorite. There’s just something about someone who knows all about your peculiarities before going into a relationship and still wants to try it out. There’s a reason When Harry Met Sally will always be my favorite rom-com.

That said, here are today’s recommendations that all highlight this trope. Enjoy!

Honor and Desire by Rebel Carter

Seylah has carried a torch for her friend August for years but has kept her affection a secret. When a handsome new arrival comes to Gold Sky, a spark ignites between them and Seylah. But when it seems that this could be the start of a new future for Seylah, August declares his intention to court her, leaving her to question whether he is just jealous or really scared of losing the love he overlooked for all those years.

Just Three Words by Melissa Brayden

Samantha is an accountant who loves things to be planned and in order. Hunter, one of her best friends, is the complete opposite. When Hunter moves in to share her loft apartment, both women expect to have to make some adjustments to their routines. What they didn’t expect was an attraction to ignite between them, and for it to have them questioning whether they could be more than just friends.

If you like the fake dating/fake relationships trope, there’s a bevy of books to choose from here and here.

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 find me over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading, and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Enemies, Friends, and Not Quite Exes

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date March 27, 2024

Sponsored by

Last Sunday, the Boston Public Library hosted a conversation with Beverly Jenkins and I was able to Zoom in for it. And, y’all…there are no words to fully explain the level of joy this brought me. Mrs. Bev is one of my favorite authors, but I have never had the opportunity to hear her speak. I had been looking forward to meeting her in person at KissCon back in 2020, but we all know what happened there. That was one of the bitterest pills for me that year. This experience was amazing, and the serotonin boost I needed.

Bookish Goods

Rope Book Bracelet by SportyBellas

What an adorable way to show off your love of reading! I love that these can be personalized with your initial and the book charm. And, since it is a rope bracelet, it is a bit more durable than a regular chain. $20

New Releases

What Happens Between Friends by Brenda Jackson

Recently widowed, Danielle receives another blow when she finds out that she wasn’t her estranged husband’s only wife. While struggling to adjust to all these revelations, she turns to Tristan, her brother’s best friend, for comfort. When things start getting steamy between them, Danielle is left wondering if she can trust in this enough to take a second chance on love.

In Walked Trouble by Dana Hawkins

Co-workers Remi and Maya find themselves sudden rivals in a cash bonus competition. Both need the money, and neither plan on losing. Soon, though, the not-so-friendly rivalry morphs into something different, leaving the two women wondering if they are willing to give up the prize for a chance at love.

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

Riot Recommendations

I know that the second chance trope is not everyone’s favorite. But it is one of mine because I think there is something to be said about returning to a past love after you both have grown and matured.

Ex Appeal by Cathy Yardley

When an exorbitant amount of money goes missing from one of Vinh’s accounts, he knows that he needs the best hacker to find it. The only trouble there is that person happens to be his high school ex, Emily, and they did not leave on good terms. As upset as Emily still is at Vinh dumping her when he did, she can’t deny that the money he is offering would be helpful to all of her current situations. As the two former lovers work to find the missing millions, the attraction between them sparks back to life and presents an opportunity for a second chance at love.

If You Love Something by Jayce Ellis

When DeShawn’s grandmother passes and leaves half of her estate to DeShawn’s ex, Malik, it is an unexpected shock. Even more so is the discovery that the two men are still married. When one of DeShawn’s uncles contests the will, the two men decide to play the part of a reconciled couple to honor Grandma’s final wish. As they carry on the charade, they find that while the problems are still there, so is the love and wonder if there is still a chance for them after all.

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

Kissing Books

Romantasy Recs

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date March 22, 2024

Sponsored by

Bookish Goods

Romantasy Starter Pack Mug by OpalandJuneShop

The text on this mug may indicate that it is specifically geared for newbies to the subgenre. However, it is perfect for a romantasy reader of any level. After all, who doesn’t love having a hot beverage with their current read? $20.00

New Releases

Maya’s Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja

After a lifetime of bad luck in love, Maya agrees to an arranged marriage. On the flight to Pakistan to meet her future husband, she’s seated next to grumpy Sarfaraz. After the plane gets stranded in Switzerland, the two become travel companions and unlikely friends on the journey to their final destination. Soon, deeper feelings develop, leaving Maya to wonder if finding the perfect man mere days before her marriage to someone else is even further proof of her lack of luck in love.

Cover Story by Rachel Lacey

When there is a concern that there is someone stalking Hollywood’s leading lady Natalie, she quickly agrees to extra security. Her only request is that it be kept under wraps. Enter Taylor, bodyguard to the stars, fresh off a three-month recovery period. She is eager to get back into the field and agrees to act as Natalie’s bodyguard under the guise of being her girlfriend. However, as the fake relationship develops, real feelings blossom between the two women.

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

Riot Recommendations

Romantasy is certainly having its time in the spotlight right now. Last year, it was even given its own category in the Goodreads Choice Awards. And, while that is arguably a very divisive move, it was also a necessity. If we’re being honest, there should also be separate sub-categories for historical, contemporary, and paranormal genres as well, so that there is a chance for multiple standout romances to be recognized.

I digress.

Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in that genre or are already a seasoned reader, here are some books for your reading consideration.

Night for Day by Roselle Lim

Exes Ward and Camille are reunited at a job interview and quickly discover that the sparks are still there. When they both get the position, albeit on opposite shifts, they take that as a sign to try again. After their respective first shifts, the two are imprisoned, kept in separate locations, and can only speak to one another in the brief moments before dawn. They will need to find a way to to break free and get their happily ever after, while simultaneously avoiding being caught in the middle of a battle between gods.

How to Love Your Elf by Kerrelyn Sparks

While traveling through elven country, an attempt is made to ambush and kidnap Princess Sorcha. However, Sorcha is far from a shrinking violet and immediately fights back against her would-be captors. She receives assistance in defeating the villains from a mysterious thief known only as the Woodsman. The two are immediately at odds, yet he agrees to accompany her and her companion to safety. Throughout the remainder of the journey, an attraction starts to simmer between the two that refuses to be ignored, leaving them to wonder what will happen at its end.

I’d say his audition went well, wouldn’t you?

If you’re a fan of medical romances, then this list is perfect for you.

And it’s always a good time for a Sapphic romance.

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

Kissing Books

Changed First Impressions

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date March 20, 2024

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New Releases

Hathor and the Prince by J.J. McAvoy

Hathor is worried that she will end up in a mediocre marriage. When the queen announces that her nephew, Prince Wilhelm, will be in attendance for Hathor’s family’s week-long party, she is hopeful that this is the match she’s been waiting for. When their initial meeting is less than ideal, her hopes are dashed. However, the season has only just begun, and Hathor will soon realize that first impressions are not always accurate.

Back to Us by Addison Clarke

When the opportunity for a Maine Event reunion tour arises, Elena is overjoyed, knowing that this is just what she needs to get her career back on track. She just needs to convince former bandmate and ex-girlfriend Skylar to get on board with the idea. However, Skylar doesn’t really miss the limelight: she prefers her life off-stage. Then again, Skylar has always had trouble saying no to Elena.

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

Riot Recommendations

We’re almost through the first quarter of the year, and we’ve already seen a lot of amazing new releases. Fortunately for us, there doesn’t appear to be any sign of this stopping. While this is marvelous news for all voracious readers, it makes our bank accounts less than happy.

Now, while I enjoy new releases as much as the next book dragon, there is something to be said about revisiting an author’s backlist. Not only are those books a bit easier on the wallet, it is also nice to see how an author’s skills have changed and developed over the years.

Both authors mentioned below have a romance scheduled to be released later this year. In addition to the recommended title, I’ll also mention their future title and expected date of publication. But, as always, you can likely expect me to give them another shout-out when they’re released into the world.

Huddle With Me Tonight by Farrah Rochon

Future release: Pardon my Frenchie

Entertainment blogger Paige is known for her vicious book reviews. When her post on NFL player Torrian’s upcoming cookbook/memoir goes viral, an online battle ignites between the two. When the two meet in person after being invited to compete in a reality TV, sparks of a different kind ignite, and they find themselves rethinking their initial impressions of one another.

The Plus One by Mazey Eddings

Future release: Late Bloomer

Indira is not looking forward to an upcoming wedding she was invited to, knowing that her ex and his new girlfriend will be in attendance. There is also the fact that her childhood nemesis Jude will also be in attendance. Jude is also less than eager to be there. Soon, the two decide that a fake relationship may make this event more bearable. But as they perform the act of a loving couple, the lines between real and fake soon begin to blur, leaving them with new problems to contend with.

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