Author: P.N. Hinton

Best Friend’s Sibling Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date September 13, 2023

Sponsored by

Greetings and salutations! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, here to give you the rundown on the world of romance, including new releases, recommendations, and other entertaining ways to pass your time.

Well we’ve almost made it through another work week y’all and I am happy for the upcoming weekend. Last week my family and I were involved in a car accident that ended up totaling my car. We’re all fine for the most part since the side airbags did their job for my spouse and the Teenager. Now we’re just trying to adjust to being a one-car family for the moment until a new car is procured, which is as fun as it sounds like.

Have you signed up for The Deep Dive yet? This literary publication features writing from Book Riot’s Editorial Staff, and is perfect for both casual and power readers alike. And now is the perfect time to join, since for all of September, brand-new free subscribers will be entered to win a copy of Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler as well as five mystery books. Click here to sign up at no cost and be entered to win.

Bookish Goods

Smut Reader Candle by BriarWick

The temperatures are (hopefully) dropping which means it’s the perfect time for burning a candle and reading. And this one is perfect for curling up on your favorite chair or spot on the couch with the beverage of your choice. Prices are $6.50 for a 2-oz wax melt, $11.50 for a 4-oz metal tin candle, and $22.00 for an 8-oz glass jar candle.

New Releases

Thank You for Sharing by Rachel Runya Katz

When childhood friends turned enemies Daniel and Liyah end up next to each other on a plane 14 years after their friendship ended, the brief reunion proves that time does not in fact heal all wounds. Soon after, they discover that his marketing firm has been hired by the museum she works at for an upcoming project that they now must work together on. The more time they spend together, the more they talk about what originally lead to their fall out and slowly begin to fall back into a comfortable friendship and, as time passes, into love.

Her Lumberjack Bear Mate by Arizona Tape

When Ella’s latest client at a high-end furniture shop demands she personally pick out the wood for their next purchase, she reluctantly heads to the forest near Bearton to do so. There she employs the skill of Darcy, a local lumberjack, to help find the perfect tree. The two women are complete opposites which makes for some tension-filled meetings. But their encounters also leave them wondering if there is something else simmering under the surface that could be a contributing factor.

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

Riot Recommendations

One trope I don’t think I’ve ever recommended here is best friend’s sibling. And this isn’t for any specific reason other than it never occurred to me, likely because I don’t think I ever had a crush on any of my sibling’s friends. There was a 16-year age gap between my brother and me so by the time that I was the age to get crushes, he was out of the house. And my sister’s friends weren’t exactly my cup of tea romantic-wise. Fun guys to hang out with occasionally, but not my type.

I know that it is a huge trope in the romance world and while some of the books that I’ve recommended have had that trope, I’ve never specified it as one. Well that changes today and below you’ll find a couple of books that fit the bill for it.

Being Hospitable by Meka James

When Kiki let her best friend’s sister, Charley, stay with her, she was expecting her solitude to be only slightly disrupted. What she wasn’t expecting was that Charley had become such a flirt and that she would be tempted to respond in kind. For her part, Charley is determined to get Kiki to see her as a sexy grown woman and puts all her energy into showing her how good they could be together.

Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn

Despite what the older women in her family think, Honoria is under no illusions about the lack of her musical talent. However, she also knows the only way out of the family quartet is to get married which she is determined to do. And, due to a promise that Marcus made to her brother, who is his best friend, he finds himself joining her in this endeavor. This is all made even more difficult by the very true if unspoken fact that the two are slowly falling in love with one another.

If you’re looking for more Black romance, this list is perfect for you.

You could also try these second-chance romances.

Baking romances!!!

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

Kissing Books

And Of Course, There’s Just One Bed

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date September 8, 2023

Sponsored by

Happy Monday! I know we missed the last one due to Labor Day, and I am over the moon to be back to starting my work week off with y’all again! If you had the holiday off, I hope it wasn’t too hard getting back to the five-day work week again. I know that last week was very challenging for me after my four-day weekend, so here’s hoping this week is easier!

Have you signed up for The Deep Dive yet? This literary publication features writing from Book Riot’s Editorial Staff, and is perfect for both casual and power readers alike. And now is the perfect time to join, since for all of September, brand-new free subscribers will be entered to win a copy of Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler, as well as five mystery books. Click here to sign up at no cost and be entered to win.

Bookish Goods

Pumpkin Latte Book Sleeve by bookbarngalore

It’s the most wonderous time of the year for all PSL lovers!! If you fall into that camp, then this book sleeve is perfect for you. Not only will it protect your books, but it will showcase your love all year long! Prices start at $28

New Releases

Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

After losing her job, Sage Flores has little choice but to return to the home she left following the death of her youngest sister, Sky. Then, when she takes back her job at Cranberry Rose Company farm, she is tasked with Tennessee Reyes, the high school crush who broke her heart. While he is still as charming as ever, between the heartbreak of the past, the tumultuous relationship with her aunt and middle sister, and the drama in her best friend’s marriage, Sage is determined to resist the temptation. But magic is all around her — not just in her family bloodlines — and it is determined to bring these two together.

This Spells Disaster by Tori Anne Martin

When Morgan drunkenly offers to act as her crush Rory’s fake girlfriend, she never expects the fellow witch to take her up on the offer. Soon after they start, Rory appears to start becoming genuinely interested, which thrills Morgan until she realizes she may have accidentally given Rory a love potion instead of a calming one. While she is determined to still help the other woman out, she starts working to counteract the spell by showing how incompatible they actually are. However, this doesn’t seem to change anything, which leaves Morgan to wonder if it is the spell of herself that has left Rory bewitched.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Make Your Bed Day! Which…isn’t a really exciting holiday if you think about it. I’m sure that most of us likely associate this task with something our parents would yell at us in the morning while growing up. It’s just more interesting that there is a day that is dedicated to it.

However, it did get me to thinking of the “just one bed” trope, which I know is a Romancelandia favorite, so I went ahead and gathered a book or two that fit it to recommend it to y’all. Enjoy!

That Kind of Guy by Talia Hibbert

When author Rae needs a date to serve as a buffer between her and her ex at an upcoming writer’s convention, she turns to her new friend Zach. He agrees, thinking it will be no big deal. When they arrive at the hotel and find that their room only has one bed, both are forced to reconcile with the fact that they have very real feelings for one another.

Mrs. Mix-Up by Candace Harper

Fellow librarians Sofiya Anderson and Molly Andersen have been fighting their mutual attraction for six months. So far, it seems to be a battle they are victorious over. At least until their regional conference, when a typo results in them being signed up as a married couple, meaning one room…and one bed. Will they be able to resist temptation, or will the close quarters prove to be too much?

As this is in my currently reading pile, I am really looking forward to said scene.

Yes, Colin, it is the spicy one. ^_^

And that’s all for today, friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday, and in the meantime, I am still over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading, and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Celebrity Fake Dating Romances

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

Sponsored by

It’s good to be back here with y’all! If you had Monday off, I hope that it was enjoyable. This year, I took a much-needed four-day weekend. In addition to getting some reading done, I got a color refresh on my hair and went out to dinner for a friend’s 40th birthday party.

We’re now a few days into Sapphic September and Bisexual Visibility Month. While there will be a few other books thrown into the mix, my personal challenge this month is to focus primarily on Sapphic romances. As of right now, I have a total of 14 books on the pile. I know it’s very ambitious so I will be sure to keep y’all updated on that process.

Bookish Goods

Book Lover Fall Tote by RomanceBookLoverGift

Even though Fall doesn’t officially start until the Equinox on the 23rd, I think most people were ready to embrace the season change when the calendar flipped over to the 1st. This tote gives off all the autumnal vibes and is perfect to take on a book buying spree. $18

New Releases

The Art of Desire by Stacey Abrams*

After one too many love affairs gone awry, Alex has sworn off men. Instead she sets her focus on her writing skills and maid of honor duties for her friend’s upcoming wedding. Phillip is trying to acclimate back to civilian life after spending three years in a terrorist organization. As a friend of the groom, he is tasked with picking up Alex at the airport. However the shadows of his past decide to return for him, putting them both in danger while they try to outrun his enemies and fight a growing attraction to one another.

*previously released under Abrams’ pen name, Selena Montgomery

Fake Around and Find Out by Mia Heintzelman

When Gemma goes to her ex’s house for closure, she is shocked to discover that he already has a new love interest. In an attempt to make him jealous, she kisses Logan, her ex’s neighbor who is a book cover model. He also happens to be her high school crush back in town for his sister’s wedding. When the kiss goes viral and leads to unexpected and unwanted attention, the two agree to fake-date. But the chemistry between them is all too real and the lines between fake and real quickly begin to blur.

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

Riot Recommendations

The two books I’m starting my planned TBR with are This Spells Disaster and Iris Kelly Doesn’t Date, both of which also involve the fake dating trope. It occurred to me that it had been a while since I had recommended this trope, something that I intend to change today. Both of my recs happen to be celebrity romances as well; so if that is also one of your preferred tropes too, you’re doubly in luck!

Act Like You Mean It by Shae Sanders

August is on the right track to being the next big star in Hollywood. One thing that would help tip him over is having an appealing romantic partner. That is where socialite Xandra comes in, who is more than happy to take on the role of fake girlfriend. After all, it is a role she has played before. However, as the two continue on with the charade, real feelings begin to blossom leaving them to wonder if they’ve both stopped pretending to have real feelings for one another.

Purposefully Accidental by G. Benson

After an accident lands iconic lesbian actress Wren in the ER, she is shocked to discover that her old camp mate Madison is her doctor. However, the reunion is not a welcome one for the doctor, since she has less than warm feelings towards Wren for very valid reasons. When Madison turns up again as a medical consult for Wren’s latest project, the media naturally assumes they’re together and it snowballs into a fake dating situation. While there is obvious attraction between them, Madison has trouble letting go of the past, which could destroy a possible chance at an HEA for the two women.

I enjoyed this article about how fanfic-to-romance has taken the world by storm.

Pick a dish, get a romance trope.

Speaking of tropes, here are some options for opposites attract fans.

And that’s all for this week. We’ll be back to two sends next week though so you can expect me to show up in your inbox on Monday. In the meantime, you can still find me floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Tank Tops and Paranormal Recommendations

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 30, 2023

Sponsored by

I had an amazing time last Friday listening to authors Mazey Eddings and Abigail Owen chat at the Lark & Owl. We were lucky enough to have Mazey stop by on her tour promoting her first YA novel, Tilly in Technicolor, and it was awesome to hear the writing process from two names in the romance genre. Plus I got to chat with her a bit and get my copy of the aforementioned book signed. Super excited to start reading it!

Before we get into the rest of the newsletter, please note that there will not be a newsletter on Monday due to Labor Day.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

Dark Romance Reader Tank by AmiWritesStuff

As I mentioned last time, we will still have summer weather in my neck of the woods for a bit longer. If you’re in the same position, then there is still time to rock this tank to show your love of romances with a bit more of an edge to them. $20

New Releases

I Love to Hate You by W.S. Greer

When Maya and Kendrick met in college, it was animosity at first sight. So, naturally, their sexual chemistry was off the charts. When their respective careers result in them working together on a project years later, neither of those factors have changed. Then when they each begin to face their own challenges, they find themselves becoming a sort of comforting haven for one another and are left wondering if they are meant to be more than rivals.

Driving Her Wild by Mariah Ankenman*

Even though Bex is attracted to her best friend’s younger sister, she is determined to keep to the unspoken rule of not sleeping with her. What Bex doesn’t know is that Josie has also been carrying a torch for her all these years and is determined to show the older woman that she is all grown up now. And when an accident leaves them stranded in a hotel room for the night, it seems that the Fates are pushing the two together.

*This title was previously released as part of the HEA Collective’s November 2022 release

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

Riot Recommendations

I ended up having multiple bookstore-related trips last weekend. I know; I know; it’s a hardship. But it is one I will endure with grace and dignity.

Seriously though, apart from the author chat mentioned in the intro, I went to the Grand Re-Opening of The Book Burrow last Saturday. Yes, they were able to find their own brick-and-mortar location and no longer have to share their space! It was very awesome to see the staff there back in their bookish environment. I’m so happy for this new chapter for The Book Burrow family.

Naturally, I walked away with a few books and today I’m recommending books by those authors. As it so happens, both are also supernatural/paranormal. Enjoy!

Janine: His True Alpha by Chencia C. Higgins

When wolf shifter Janine is matched with a mate with whom she has no love connection, she decides to leave the obligations of the pack she grew up with and move to West Texas. While she intends to be an independent woman, she soon finds herself drawn to Langston’s pack. Due to his father’s unexpected passing, Langston becomes alpha of the pack which is almost more pressure than he can handle. When Janine shows up, the instant attraction just further complicates things. But neither can ignore their draw and the possibility they may be fated mates.

Prince’s Tide by M.L. Eaden

Due to having famous parents, Royce grew up in the public eye. That is largely part of why he prefers life on a boat, away from cameras and the limelight. When a mistake lands him in the gulf, he is rescued by merman Troller. While Troller is fascinated by the human, he knows that he needs to keep his people’s existence a secret and quickly flees. One year later, it is Troller who needs Royce to rescue him and seeks out the other man. The two begin to build a life together but when the secret that caused Troller to seek Royce out comes to light, will the love they’ve built be strong enough to last?

If you love small-town romance vibes, check this list out.

Pick from these rom-com love tropes to get the one that will lead to your soulmate.

If you’re inspired to read a rom-com after taking that test, then this list has some options to consider.

As a reminder, there will not be a newsletter Monday so it will be one week before you hear from me again. In the meantime I can be found over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Second Chance and Roommate Romance

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 25, 2023

Sponsored by

It’s the final week of August y’all, which means that, in theory, the dog days of summer will soon be behind us. In reality, for some people, including myself, there will be no crisp, brisk fall air. At best, it will hopefully just drop below triple digits. Oh well. I can still read about places where there is an actual fall.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey, there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

Avid Reader Bookend by HomeAnds

This is simple yet powerful and would be a perfect addition to any bookshelf. It’s both functional, cute, and minimalist, which makes it an all around winner for me. Plus it helps to balance out the non-minimalist approach I take towards books themselves, or at least that is what I’m going to tell myself. $23

New Releases

Love on the Byline by Xio Axelrod

Blake is a journalist whose work has recently consisted of following celebrities and writing about their escapades. Ollie is the best friend and executive assistant to the up-and-coming star who is the subject of Blake’s upcoming article, which will hopefully move her from the rag mags. Another thing they have in common is that they were college sweethearts who both felt the other one got away. Despite this setup at a second chance, both are determined to stay professional, which proves to be exceedingly difficult the more time they spend together.

My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine

Days away from being evicted, Cassie has no other option than to move into the seemingly-too-good-to-be-true room for rent she sees online. At first, things with Frederick seem normal enough; they’re on opposite schedules, so they very rarely see each other. However, when Cassie opens the fridge one day and sees a large amount of blood bags in there, she realizes that there is much more to her handsome roommate than she initially thought and is left trying to figure out how to deal with being attracted to the vampire she now lives with.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’m still on a bit of a myth kick after reading Clytemnestra y’all, ’cause I enjoyed it that much. Now, it’s not a romance by any stretch of the imagination, especially if you’re well versed on how her story ends. But it’s still a good, powerful read and one I highly recommend for anyone out there wanting to channel their inner bad ass. Because Clytemnestra is certainly that. And I love the power that comes with the title of a book being named after one of the main characters.

As a romance reader, though, I do love a happily ever after in my books. Hell, I’ll even take a happily for now every once in awhile. When we get those two thoughts combined, we get today’s recommendations, which are books that are both named after a main character and reference Greek mythology. As an added bonus, both books are part of a duology about twin brothers and are written by two different authors.

Ares by Asia Monique

Ares is the co-owner of a nightclub in Houston, Texas along with his twin brother Eros, who has a reputation for being unapproachable. Nyx is an astronomer who can see the layers beneath his stoic façade. When the two cross paths, it seems destined in the stars that they will end up together.

Eros by Stephanie Nicole Norris

When Amara enters the club Eros owns with his twin brother, his attention is immediately drawn to her despite her being there with her fiancé. Amara is also attracted to him, but for the sake of her mother, must follow through with her engagement. When he gets wind of this, he is determined to help get her out of this lifelong commitment and possibly give them a chance to see what options are out there for them.

I enjoyed this list of some of the awesome things you can find in libraries…outside of books of course.

Just because it’s a bad idea doesn’t mean it isn’t the perfect set-up for a romance novel.

No lies detected.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh newsletter full of recommendations, new releases, and other fun stuff. You can still find me over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Romance Readers Assemble

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 23, 2023

Sponsored by

Y’all, the Masquerade Ball for Bookstore Romance Day was a blast! I went with one of my romance reading besties. In addition to mingling with other readers, snagging a picture at their photo booth, and seeing the reveal of the store’s ‘New Adult’ section, we both did a few rounds of Speed Dating With a Book where she walked away with The Curse of Saints and I paired with I Kissed a Girl. All in all, it was a success, and I hope that they make this an annual thing.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey, there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

picture of Audiobook Reader Tarot Sticker

Audiobook Reader Tarot Card by lylajuneco

I know I just shared another tarot-inspired good but, like the actual decks themselves, you can never have too many of these! This is perfect for my audiophiles out there. $3

New Releases

cover of One Summer of Love & Snowbound Second Chance

One Summer of Love/Snowbound Second Chance by Reese Ryan

You get two wonderful romances in one volume with this one! In the first one, the story centers around Delaney and Nolan. She’s a temp worker for the summer, there to help his family’s vineyard become a success, and he is trying to ignore the beauty both because she’s temporary and an employee. In the second one, the focus is on Evvy and Sebastian, who find themselves snowed in together at the Magnolia Inn, which makes it that much more difficult to ignore the attraction simmering between them.

Not Just Gal Pals by Elizabeth Luly

After almost being canceled, accidental influencer Jenny decides to return home to Sapphire Springs for a bit until it all blows over. There, she runs into schoolmate Blake, who is now the town’s doctor. Blake has also harbored a long-time crush on Jenny. When they two are thrown together to help plan another friend’s bachelorette party, the sparks fly. But both women are all too aware that Jenny’s stay there is just a temporary one.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’m one of the few people in my inner bookish circle that regularly reads romance. So it goes without saying that is one of the reasons that I had such a good time this last weekend mingling with other like-minded readers. I love also reading romance novels about people who share the same love, hence the theme for today’s recommendations.

Blind Date With a Book Boyfriend by Lucy Eden

After flying to California from New York for a job interview, Jordyn has a couple of hours to kill. So, she decides to head to The Bookstore to pick up a few books and meets lovable cinnamon roll Mike as well. He offers to show her around Culver City, an offer she takes him up on. While she finds him to be irresistible on multiple levels, she also knows that meet-ups like this only happen in romance novels…right?

Meet Me in the Margins by Melissa Ferguson

Savannah works for a publishing company that considers the romance genre to be beneath them and the caliber of books they publish. So when she drops her own romance manuscript in a staff meeting, she quickly hides it in a secret place. When she goes to retrieve it later she is shocked and miffed when she notices notes about her work in the margins. But when the feedback matches that of the editor she hopes to publish her novel, she finds herself engaging with her mystery beta reader and slowly falling in love along the way.

Tomorrow is the first Stuff your Earbuds Day! This is similar to Stuff Your Ereader, which happens roughly four times a year. If this takes off, which I am fairly confident it will, hopefully the audiobook version will as well. You can click on this video to know what site to check tomorrow for a list of books. Bear in mind it will not be active until tomorrow so be sure to set a reminder to check. I know I will be.

SteamyLitCon also happened last weekend. Be sure to check out their TikTok page to get an idea of how it went.

Here some of the romance novels that were on reader’s wish lists so far this year.

NGL…I was surprised by tge accuracy of this fun soulmate quiz.

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

Kissing Books

Get Your Myth On!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 18, 2023

Sponsored by

I have been quite the busy bee the last couple of weeks. And that is not going to change anytime soon. This week I’m going to two events at the Lark & Owl. One is for the discussion of Clytemnestra, and the other is for a Mazey Eddings event, celebrating her YA debut Tilly in Technicolor. My book club meets this Saturday and the one after that is when one of my best friends is having her birthday dinner. It’s a lot of going into the out, especially for someone who, while ultimately an ambivert, has strong leanings towards the introverted part. So, there will need to be some kind of downtime in the future.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey, there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

Romance Reader Tarot Card Shirt by AlquimiaStoreDesign

This shirt combines my love of Tarot and whimsy. The art is gorgeous, the vibes are vibing the perfect way, and it looks so comfy. Perfect for a weekend-long read-a-thon for sure, and perfect for all of us in Romancelandia. Prices start at $21

New Releases

So Much Love to Give by Pamela Campbell

Parker is one of her firm’s top architects, a fact she feels goes vastly unnoticed by head partner Sam. When Josiah is hired by Sam over another architect Parker felt was more qualified, she is enraged at this slight. However, she remains professional towards Josiah, if a little cool. Despite coming in under such means, Josiah is drawn to Parker and even she is unable to deny the attraction between the two of them.

In Charm’s Way by Lana Harper*

Six months later, Delilah is still grappling with the effects of the spell that Nina Blackmoore placed on her. In an act of desperation, she casts a blood spell in the hopes of fully restoring her memory. While this does help her fully recover her memory and powers, it also has the side effect of making Delilah a monster magnet. When the charismatic half-fae/half-human monster hunter Catriona shows up, Delilah has little choice but to accept her help. As the two work to discover what happened with the spell, an undeniable attraction blooms between them. But when all sorts of secrets are revealed, will they be able to stand together?
*Read and LOVED by yours truly

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

Riot Recommendations

As mentioned earlier, one of the books I’m currently reading is about Clytemnestra, who I feel is one of the more maligned figures in Greek mythology. Her story is fairly tragic and she’s painted as a villain for the murder of her husband Agamemnon, even if many argue he deserved it, which, to be completely transparent on my stance, he did.

That said, it did put me in the mood for some happier spins on myths — something that is prevalent in the romance world. While most of these retellings are around the Hades and Persephone myth, they are not the only option out there. While I do enjoy that one as well, I wanted to focus on others as well for today’s theme.

Love in Color by Bolu Babalola

While she may be better known for Honey & Spice, this was Bolu’s debut book and features retellings of romantic myths from all around the world. While there are a few Greek myths retold here, you’ll also find tales from West Africa and the Middle East. And it’s a short story collection, which can sometimes be a nice change of pace.

A Scent of Greek by Tina Folsom

After Dionysus unceremoniously dumps Ariadne, Hera decides to teach him a lesson by robbing him of his memory. When a heartbroken Ariadne finds him later after being beaten, she decides to take advantage of his memory loss by telling him they’re engaged. The longer the charade goes on, though, the more seemingly real feelings develop, leaving Ariadne to wonder what will happen when his memories come back?

I want to go to the there.

Check out this quick chat with Emily Henry.

I’m stoked for this release.

Don’t forget to check out the Romance for Maui auction. There is still time left to bid on some awesome items.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with more romance related news and other fun bits. In the meantime can still find me on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Happy Bookstore Romance Day’s Eve Eve

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 16, 2023

Sponsored by

It’s just two more sleeps until Bookstore Romance Day! I hope that you’re able to get out and participate in some of the festivities that are happening near you. I picked up my fancy and personal invitation for the Black & White Ball I’m attending Saturday night. As an added bonus, I got a mask as well, which is pictured below. My excitement knows no bounds, y’all!

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for many book dragons and velocireaders, but hey, there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

TBR Cart Pin by BookaholicStore

As I am still grappling with the fact that I purchased a total of 13 books last month (in my defense, one was a preorder) this pin seems spot on for the energy I’m giving off right now. Cause at this point, why fight the chaos? Prices start at $7.

New Releases

Until Next Time by Ruby Dare

When animal shelter volunteer Abigail is tasked with ‘watching over’ the star of the popular series The EverMorphs, she tries to keep her love of the show a secret for multiple reasons. Liam is there to help boost adoption numbers and, due to past unpleasant interactions, is thrilled Abigail doesn’t appear to be a fan. However, as often is the case, secrets can’t stay buried for long and once the truth comes out they both will have to face some difficult choices.

Codename Charming by Lucy Parker

Petunia enjoys her job as personal assistant to the royal Johnny even if it leads to a lot of combative interactions with his bodyguard, Matthias. When one of Johnny’s antics leads to the paparazzi speculating of a romance between him and Petunia, the royal PR team asks Matthias and Petunia to pretend like they’re the ones in love which they agree to. As they spend more time together outside of their jobs, a very real connection begins to develop, especially after they share a passionate kiss.

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

Riot Recommendations

As previously mentioned, the ball this Saturday is a Masquerade one, which only serves to increase my excitement. Don’t get me wrong; there are a lot of other events going on, including the unveiling of a new section of the store. But the idea of dressing fancy with masks and mingling with like-minded readers in all their finery just adds to it. So, that is why the theme for today’s recommendations is going to be MASQUERADE!!

Also not sorry if that song is now stuck in your head. It’s been a while since I’ve put an earworm out there so I’m sure I was due for one.

Tall, Dark…Westmoreland! by Brenda Jackson

For once in her life, Olivia throws caution to the wind by engaging in a one-night fling with a stranger at a masquerade ball. Days later, she is shocked to discover that the man behind the mask is none other than her father’s rival, Reginald Westmoreland. She is determined to put the brief affair behind them but he is equally as determined to have the affair develop into something longer-lasting.

One Night With You by Sophie Jordan

Lady Jane has decided to think of herself for once rather than her family by attending a masquerade ball. There she sees Seth, the man who broke her heart years earlier by choosing her sister over her. Now a war veteran, Seth finds little joy in life and is surprised to feel the stirrings of passion after a kiss with a masked stranger. After the night is over he sets out to find this mysterious woman, having no idea that she has been right under his nose all along.

Here is one fan’s list of differences between Red, White, and Royal Blue and its screen adaptation.

Check out this quiz that will guess your zodiac sign based on how you plan an expensive wedding.

There is an Auction for Maui already in the works, which is just further proof of how much Romancelandia can rock.

As promised here is the picture of the mask I will be rocking for Saturday. Maybe not all night because I do have glasses but for a good portion. And with that said, that’s it for me today friends. I’ll be back on Monday with a fresh newsletter. You can still catch me over on ‘Twitter’ under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Happy Dreamsicle Day

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 11, 2023

Sponsored by

Saturday is Bookstore Romance Day, y’all!! This is similar to Independent Bookstore Day, which was celebrated back in April, except this day is focused primarily on the Romance genre. I know historically indie bookstores and the romance genre haven’t always gone hand in hand and there are still some out there that sneer at the genre and won’t stock them. Which honestly is a loss for them because we all know how lucrative it is. I am over the moon, though, that one of my favorite indies is planning a Black and White Masquerade Ball, and yes, your girl already got a ticket for it. I’ll be sure to update y’all next week on how it all went.

One of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey, there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

Kindle Tarot Card Grip by IvyResinShop

If I were ever the type who was brave enough to read my Kindle without a cover (I’m super clumsy), I would definitely be someone who used one of these grips to make holding it easier. This is perfect for both reading devices and reading tablets, regardless of which type it is and is priced at just $27.

New Releases

cover of The Secret to a Southern Wedding

The Secret to a Southern Wedding by Synithia Williams

When Imani hears about her mother’s plans to wed a man she met on a dating app, she heads home to Peachtree Grove, Georgia with plans to stop the wedding. Once there, she runs into Cyril, son of the groom, who is equally as determined that no one will ruin his widowed father’s chance at happiness. Despite being on opposing sides, sparks still fly between the two, but everyone’s HEA is threatened when Cyril’s past is revealed.

You’re Just Not My Type by Aarti V Raman

Despite what her well-intentioned family thinks, Niva knows that Max is not the man for her. The three strikes against him are that he’s her boss, he fired most of the staff at the gaming company she works at, and she’s already talking to a man she met online. Then they begin working directly together and she sees that there is more to Max than her first impression gave her and she’s left wondering if maybe her family is seeing something she isn’t.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Dreamsicle Day! I know this type of dessert is an acquired taste and it’s one that I for sure have. If there is a Dreamsicle option for a flavor of ice cream or a daiquiri, you can bet I’m going to get it. That is why today’s recommendations are romance novels with orange covers, similar to the delicious treat.

The Dating Dare by Jayci Lee

While she will indulge in the occasional fling, actual dating is off the table for Tara. However, after a round of boozy Truth or Dare, she finds herself roped into agreeing to four dates with Seth, her best friend’s new brother-in-law. Seth is excited at the prospect of having a handful of dates with Tara before he takes off to Paris for a new job. Unfortunately, their planned dates always seem to end in disaster, even if the impromptu meet-ups are more successful, which results in an unexpected situation neither one anticipated.

Love on the Sweet Side by Mariah Ankenman

Maggie has come home to Peak Town, Colorado, to take over her grandmother’s bakery, an endeavor that is seemingly being sabotaged by an unknown party. Further complicating issues is the reappearance of Colton, her childhood best friend who seems to want something more from her and is determined to get Maggie to see him as more than just a playboy. Even as the two dance with the possibility of moving from a platonic to romantic relationship, the danger still surrounds Maggie, and Colton vows to protect her at all costs and prove himself worthy of her love.

Speaking of sweet stuff, pick a candy and get your soulmate’s first initial.

If you love bookshops and romances, this list has you covered.

And if you’re looking for even more Red, White, and Royal Blue vibes, here is another round-up for y’all.

And that is all I have for y’all this fine Monday morning. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday though and you can always find me floating over on “will always call it Twitter” under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Summertime Reading

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 9, 2023

Sponsored by

I’ve recently come to terms with the fact that I’m a mood reader, which for me means that what I want to read can change on an hourly basis. And I’ve decided to start August off by fully embracing this and all its chaotic nature which at the moment includes having six books on my “Currently Reading” shelf. Hey, if nothing else at least it will help me get through the Mount Everest that is my TBR pile. That said, the one that most has me in its grip currently is In Charm’s Way.

Speaking of having more books to read, one of the many services that Book Riot offers is the New Release Index. Since 2017, this service has worked to keep readers up to date with all the latest book releases. Most would agree that keeping up with a TBR pile is a Sisyphean task for most book dragons and velocireaders, but hey there’s never any harm in trying. Subscribe today to start giving it your best shot!

Bookish Goods

Pen/Bookmark Holder by Model2Print

So the description does technically say it’s a pen holder but I’m sure we can collectively agree that it can also be used for bookmarks, since I’m sure most of us have a plethora of those to go along with all our books. It says “So Many Books So Little Time” on one side and “I Have No Shelf Control” on another. No lies told! $20

New Releases

A Perfect Pairing by Sheryl Lister

Natasha has a successful career as a realtor but has always harbored a secret passion for interior design. When the opportunity to show it off presents itself, she is over the moon until she realizes that her partner in that endeavor is none other than her ex, Antonio. Working together proves to be a challenge for both of them since the unresolved issues of how their relationship ended still linger, as does the undeniable attraction that is still very much present. Is this the opportunity for a second change or will Natasha have to choose between her career or love?

Reality in Check by Emily Banting

Even though she has no background in the hospitality field, Arte is determined to make the hotel that her late grandmother left her and her sister successful. Charlotte is the host of the reality show Hotel SOS and is headed there to help, but the two women immediately clash over their ideas for what is best for this endeavor. As they continue to work together, they slowly realize that they may have more in common than they initially thought.

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

Riot Recommendations

As summer is winding down, I thought it would be a good time to mention some of the best books I’ve read this summer. Now, I will be honest and say that both of these are relatively new releases and were previously mentioned in the ‘New Release’ sections of a prior newsletter.

That said, I also feel that they are flying somewhat under the radar in Romancelandia which is why I’m calling them out here. Having now read and enjoyed both, I’m get to tell you more about why I liked them than just a synopsis. Enjoy!

That Summer Feeling by Bridget Morrissey

I may not be looking for a summer fling, but this book did make me consider finding an adult sleepaway camp to check out if for no other reason than that experience. I enjoyed the slow burn romance that developed between Garland and Stevie, even if the attraction was instantaneous. I also really enjoyed Garland’s inner journey to who she really was and that her personality was fine the way it was; it just wasn’t the one for her ex-husband. This is a super sweet romance that gives all the summertime vibes.

Role Playing by Cathy Yardley

I really enjoyed reading about Maggie, a middle-aged woman who long ago said “Screw it” to the world at large and embraced her grumpy, introverted nature. Aiden was also a very lovable and caring man even to people that he shouldn’t have been. They build a good solid friendship online before meeting in person and even after meeting up and realizing they had both made a mistake, they still kept their platonic friendship strong, even with the simmering attraction. Also, as someone who knows she is the grump more often than not, I appreciated that it was that female main character that fit that role.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I hope that you enjoy your upcoming weekend, whenever it may be, and that you get a lot of reading done. I’ll be back in your inboxes Monday and in the meantime you can find me over on what always be known as the blue bird app under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.