Category: Kissing Books

8 of the Best New Romance Audiobooks to Listen to This Summer

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date July 9, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Nikki DeMarco.

During the full swing of summer, there’s nothing quite like listening to an audiobook to fully embrace the essence of the season. It’s the time of year for escape, whether you’re escaping out of town on vacation, escaping the heat with a staycation, or escaping reality by starting a new book. Put on your earbuds and sunscreen, because these steamy romances are guaranteed to transport you to a world of beachside flirtations, unforgettable adventures, and love stories that sizzle hotter than the summer sun. Think heartwarming reunions under a starlit sky and unforgettable characters embarking on journeys of love and self-discovery: everything romance readers love. From rivals-to-lovers tropes to heartwarming second-chance romances, this list offers something for every romance audiobook lover.

This curated selection highlights some of the swooniest books of 2024. Even more than that, they are narrated by talented voices that bring the characters and their love stories to life. So, if you’re searching for an audiobook that promises an emotional journey and a happily ever after, look no further. It’s time to grab your headphones, pack a beach bag (or staycation essentials!), and get ready to crush on the hottest romance audiobooks of 2024. Let’s get into it!

audiobook cover of Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen

Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen, Narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan

Aaliyah is on the cusp of her 30th birthday and wants a date to her birthday party so her family can shut up about her being single already. Her first attempt went awry, so her friends and the local bartender, Ahmad, help her set up an online dating profile. The apps aren’t easy for a big, confident, Black woman to navigate, especially with fetishizing, catfishing, and all the lying going on. Aaliyah is determined not to settle on her dreams for herself or her standards. All she really needs to do is open her eyes to what’s right in front of her.

audiobook cover of A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston

A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston, Narrated by Dorothy Dillingham Blue & Ashley Poston

Eileen Merriweather loves a good romance novel where there are HEAs and not women jilted at the alter, like she was. Having hidden out at home long enough, she decides to go on her book club’s annual retreat. On the way, her car breaks down in Eloraton, the picturesque small town setting from her favorite romance novel series. The town is stuck in the late author’s last unfinished story. Elsy decides to write the town’s happy ending herself, because it just might be intertwined with her own HEA.

audiobook cover of THE KISS COUNTDOWN BY ETTA EASTON

The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton, Narrated by Angel Pean

Event planner Amerie is jobless, boyfriendless, and about to be apartmentless. When she runs into a sexy astronaut at her favorite coffee shop at the same time she sees her ex there with his new partner, she pretends that astronaut Vincent is her new boyfriend. Vincent is totally down with this, and they strike up a deal. Amerie will live rent-free in his spare room while she gets her start-up off the ground, and Vincent will have a “girlfriend” to take to all the events leading up to his launch in three months.

audiobook cover of The Prospects by KT Hoffman

The Prospects by KT Hoffman, Narrated by Shaan Dasani & KT Hoffman

In this minor league sports romance, Gene Ionescu has his dream job playing for the Beaverton Beavers as the first openly trans athlete in pro baseball. He’s happy with the life he’s worked hard for, until Luis Estrada, his former teammate and current rival, gets traded to the Beavers. As the two learn to play on the same team, the tension between them turns magnetic. Gene must decide if he’s happy with his minor league life or if he needs some major league changes.

audiobook cover of How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang, Narrated by Katharine Chin & Andrew Eiden

Helen Zhang never thought she’d see her high school classmate Grant Shepard again, and that suited her just fine. When her YA novel series is optioned for the screen, Grant is one of the lead writers on the screenplay, forcing them to work together. They decide not to tell the other writers about the tragic accident from their past. The more time they spend together, the more they realize that their high school ideas of each other aren’t representative of who they have become…and what might become between them.

audiobook cover of A SHORE THING BY JOANNA LOWELL

A Shore Thing by Joanna Lowell, Narrated by Ros Watt

Kit Griffith is starting new in Cornwall with an identity that finally fits him. He knew that leaving his all-women artist community would be difficult, but didn’t think he’d lose painting altogether. Instead, he pursues another interest: selling and riding bicycles. Botanist Muriel Pendrake seeks Kit out to commission him to illustrate British seaweed for her before leaving for New York. He knows he shouldn’t, but this could be his opportunity to show an all-male cycling league that women can ride just as well, if not better, than men. The two agree to help each other. Practice beachside rides turn into Muriel and Kit growing closer. This is a slow burn that you won’t be able to put down.

audiobook cover of ISABEL AND THE ROGUE BY LIANA DE LA ROSA

Isabel and the Rogue by Liana De la Rosa, Narrated by Ruby Hunt

Isabel Luna Valdés feels like the forgotten Luna sister and is determined not to let that stop her from helping Mexico gather information that could aid it during the French Occupation. She’s able to easily slip away from the ton during the season and into libraries and offices to find secrets. Meanwhile, Captain Sirius Dawson is a spy for the British Home Office. He gains politicians’ trust and trysts with knowledgeable ladies. His keen instincts help him identify what Isabel is doing, but she escapes his every attempt to catch her. The attraction between them is strong, and when secrets are revealed, Isabel has to decide if she is loyal to her country or to her heart.

audiobook cover of Four Eids and a Funeral by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé & Adiba Jaigirdar

Four Eids and a Funeral by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé & Adiba Jaigirdar, Narrated by Farah Kidwai, Sandra Okuboyejo & Shahjehan Khan

Tiwa and Said used to be best friends, and when Said goes to a boarding school out of town, it all but seals their ex-bestie fate. Unexpectedly, Said returns home for the summer so he can attend the funeral of his favorite librarian. Since Tiwa and Said go to the same Islamic Center, avoiding each other isn’t so easy. When the center accidentally catches fire, the mayor decides to bulldoze the whole thing. Tiwa is devastated, then determined to save it with Said’s help. Their attempt to save the building is the last chance they have to save their relationship as well.

If you want to get more audiobook recommendations, but sure to check out Audible’s best audiobooks of 2024 so far.

Kissing Books

“Vamp” It Up

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date July 5, 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 time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

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Happy Summmerween! This is the annual combination celebration of summer and Halloween. This word first entered my vernacular a couple of years ago when I was marathoning Gravity Falls with my son. It is something that is also fairly popular in BookTube since there are a handful of related reading challenges going on this month. Either way, it’s a fun holiday and we all definitely could use a lot more of that in our lives, especially at this particular moment.

Before we dive further, this is too important to not give a shout-out. This year marks 30 years since Beverly Jenkins made her debut and published Night Song. Congratulations Ms. Bev!

Bookish Goods

Spooky Romance Sticker by FatedFiction

This sticker is the perfect way to kick off Summerween. Plus, it’s sparkly, and who doesn’t like to sparkle every now and again? $4.00

New Releases

The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez

After Marcela’s best friend and long-time crush gets engaged to another woman, she resolves to do everything to keep his happily ever after safe. Her first act is preventing his older brother Theo from confessing his love for his soon-to-be sister-in-law at the engagement party, and getting him to sleep off his drunken state at her place. When they show up together the next day, everyone incorrectly assumes they hooked up. Needing a cover for both of their feelings of unrequited love, they roll with it. But, when a shared hidden attraction rises to the surface, they soon find themselves exploring it together and wondering if this rebound is the real thing.

A Wallflower Never Surrenders by Courtney McCaskill

After Eleanor’s eccentric father sells the family home, she focuses on securing a new house for her three younger sisters and herself. While an invitation to the Countess of Millthrope’s house party will see them housed for two weeks, it is still a temporary solution. When the youngest sister, Pippa, catches the eye of Felix, younger brother of Jasper, the Duke of Norwood, this appears to be the change in luck their family needs. However, Jasper believes Pippa is a fortune hunter and vows to stop the match. What he didn’t expect was that Eleanor would be equally determined to see it through, or that he would soon begin to look at the eldest sister as an option for his wife.

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

Riot Recommendations

I mentioned last send that the recommendations this month would be primarily divided between Summerween and Christmas In July themes. As such, today’s theme is vampires. No matter what other types of monsters, cryptids, or other supernatural sweeties we may read about, I’m betting most of us have a special place in our reading hearts for those particular creatures of the night.

Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas

From childhood, Néstor has always loved Nena, the daughter of the ranch owner where his family stays. When an innocent night out leads to violence, Nestor erroneously believes Nena has died and runs away in fear and shame. Years later, their paths cross again with Nena working as a curandera to prove her worth to her father and avoid being married off. But with Nena believing that Néstor had abandoned her all those years ago, their reunion is anything but sweet. Soon, they discover that they will have to put aside their differences to fight not only the colonizers encroaching on their territory but also the unknown creatures that drain the blood out of their victims before leaving them for dead. Only then will they be able to resolve the issues from their past and look toward a possible future together.

Time Without End by Linda Lael Miller

Known as an enigmatic master of illusion with a successful magic show in Vegas, the vampire Valerian seems to have it all. However, beneath his external facade, he’s brokenhearted, having lost his one true love back when he was turned. And even though they’ve always united whenever she gets reincarnated, her violent death at the hands of an unknown enemy always parts them. When Valerian is found to be a person of interest in a series of murders and is approached by homicide detective Daisy, he is shocked to discover Brenna’s current form. He vows to help the detective solve the case and ensure that they will not be tragically parted this time.

While not every witchy book listed here is a romance, enough are for it to merit a call out.

Pick your favorite rom-com and get your go-to coffee order.

And that’s all she wrote for today. If you’re ever interested in what I do between the sends, you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Hello, July

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 28, 2024

Sponsored by

It’s the beginning of July and, per the Council of Spooky Bitches, the start of Halloween season! I’m a total Halloween girly and am here for all those vibes. As such, I am planning to share bookish goods and recommendations to celebrate. However, I know that some people prefer Christmas in July and will be sharing things that channel those vibes as well. After all, both can exist peacefully.

Just wanted to give another reminder that Thursday is a holiday for us in the USA, meaning there will not be another send until next Monday.

Bookish Goods

Bookish Rearview Decal by SeasideSorcery

This little decal is adorable and so tiny that it won’t be considered a driving hazard. Plus, it’s a nice way to get a little boost of serotonin if you’re ever stuck in traffic by reminding you of the physical or digital book you have waiting for you at home, since you’re likely already listening to an audiobook in the car. $5.00

New Releases

Down South Bayou by Aricka Alexander

After breaking up with her boyfriend of five years and angrily leaving their apartment, Cheyenne is almost hit by a car. At the last minute, she’s pulled to safety by WNBA player Harley. When they cross paths again at one of Harley’s matches, they enter into a friends-with-benefits relationship. However, things get complicated when real feelings begin to develop. Is there a chance for them to find true love together, or will their respective trauma from failed past relationships prove too insurmountable?

Just Playing House by Farah Heron

When Marley has the opportunity to become a celebrity private shopper, she is ecstatic. That is, until she finds out that her client is Nikhil, the boy who took her to prom, slept with her…and then ghosted her. Despite their past, Nik seems eager to have her as his stylist. He even offers to move in and help her while she recovers from an elective double mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery. Marley is about to see a different side of Nik she never expected and is left wondering if she should take another chance on him.

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

Riot Recommendations

For today’s recommendations, I have two books that show what happens when grumpy/sunshine people are put in close/forced proximity. What can I say — it sounded like something fun going into a holiday weekend. Enjoy!

Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert

When Eve’s parents tell her she needs a sense of direction in her life, she does the only sensible thing and drives away in anger. The impromptu road trip leads her to Jacob’s B&B where she interviews for the chef position. She’s promptly turned down and then “accidentally” hits him with her car when leaving. Left with little choice, Jacob begrudgingly accepts her help. The more time he spends around the sunny optimistic, the harder it is for him to keep up his frosty exterior or ignore their simmering shared attraction.

Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare

After being raised on her father’s fanciful tales of romance, Izzy can’t help but have a rose-tinted outlook on life. When she finds she’s inherited a castle, she’s even more convinced that there is a happily ever after in her future. But then she discovers that Ransome, Duke of Rothbury, already inhabits the castle. And, he isn’t interested in sharing the castle with anyone, least of all someone with fanciful notions of love. However, he still finds himself unable to remain impervious to her smiles and is soon rethinking his outlook on love.

In more Bridgerton drama, Julia Quinn herself came to tell the fandom as a collective whole to calm down. Regardless of how anyone feels about said change, this is not a good look for Romancelandia at all.

After rumors circulated for months, Spotify finally announced that their Premium plan, which includes 15 hours of audiobooks, will change from $10.99 to $11.99 this month. While a dollar may not seem like a lot in the long run, if you’re like me and forget to use those hours, then downgrading may be a good thing to consider.

Brynne Weaver did the cover reveal for the final book in the Ruinous Love Trilogy. I know that news, plus the one about Butcher & Blackbird being optioned for a movie adaptation, have all the dark romance lovers super stoked.

Kissing Books

YA Romances I Wish I Had Read as a Teen

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 26, 2024

Sponsored by

Before we get too deep into it, I wanted to give a quick heads up that there will not be a send next Thursday, due to the holiday here in the US.

I am happy to report that I am fully out of my stagnate reading state and have spent the majority of my time over the last week reading. I devoured Leather & Lark, which gave me the drive to start a handful of other books. At the recommendation of my FYP on TikTok, I borrowed Crafted From the Ashes of Roses from Kindle Unlimited. I also started How to End a Love Story, A Novel Love Story, and The Lost Story in addition to still making my way through Director’s Cut.

I just realized that a majority of the books I’m reading have the word “story” in them, which was a completely random happenstance.

Bookish Goods

TBR Tarot Towel by BinkyGirlCreations

Whether it’s on the beach, poolside, or even in your own backyard, this is a perfect towel to lay out on while you attack your personal TBR. Prices start at $33.

New Releases

Confidential Attraction by Brenda Jackson

After a family tragedy, Mark finds himself the guardian of his infant niece. While successful in business, the entrepreneur has no clue on how to be a father figure to a tiny human. Seeing his ineptitude, his assistant, Allison, decides to help by moving in and becoming a temporary nanny. However, with the extra time spent together, Mark and Allison are unable to ignore the shared attraction, which will have a ripple effect on all other aspects of their lives.

Change of Heart by Kate Canterbary

Successful surgeon Whitney spends her summer days leading her hospital’s new ethics initiative and her nights crashing weddings with her BFF and indulging in one-night stands. When Henry, her latest conquest, turns out to also be one of the new surgical residents, she is determined to keep it professional. However, the universe appears to have other plans for them, and their paths continue to cross. Soon, Henry has Whitney rethinking her “one night only” stance and begins to wonder about the possibility of a happily ever after.

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

Riot Recommendations

Over the weekend I visited The Book Burrow, which is one of my favorite independent bookstores, and walked away with two vintage YA Avon Flare books.

I’ve said many times that my love of the romance genre started in middle school, but that’s when my love of *adult* romances began. I read romance novels from the moment one of my older cousins bequeathed younger me her collection of First Love from Silhouette books, and that is what placed me on the romance path.

Now, because of when these books were written and published, they weren’t as diverse as YA romance is today. Which is sad, because no matter the age of the reader, they should be able to see themselves in the books they read. With that in mind, today’s recommendations are going to be YA romances that I wish I had as a younger book dragon.

Happily Ever Afters by Elise Bryant

Shortly after 16-year-old aspiring romance writer Tessa gets accepted to the creative writing program at a prestigious art school, she’s struck with the dreaded writer’s block. Luckily, her friend Caroline has a romance checklist which will not only help Tessa get her writing mojo back but will also help to catch the interest of her real-life love interest, Nico. As Tessa works through the list, she begins to question if her happily ever after is with Nico or maybe with Sam, the boy next door who was also her first real friend at her new school.

Finding Jupiter by Kelis Rowe

When Ray and Orion meet at the local skating rink, both are processing a familial loss. As such, they’re instantly drawn to one another, sensing the kindred soul. Soon, they’re spending more time together and finding solace in each other’s company. However, the path to love isn’t always smooth, and soon they find themselves having to fight opposing forces, including a decades-long family secret, that threaten their blossoming love.

Summer reads for the win!

Take this food quiz and get your Bridgerton match.

In case anyone was curious, these are the books that inspired today’s recommendations. I know that they will be full on cheese, but sometimes you need that in your reading life.

Kissing Books

Rival Families and a Beachside Romance

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 21, 2024

Sponsored by

I am coming out from a bit of a reading slump. One book took me forever to finish because I felt that it dragged on longer than it needed to, and I DNFed another at 50% because I just couldn’t anymore. And I know it was those two books because I started Leather & Lark and that was like a breath of fresh air to my reading life.

Now, it may be a bit concerning that the book that breaks this is an actual enemies-to-lovers trope with a fake marriage between a contract killer and a ‘multiple deleter’ to boot. But a win is a win. I’m also reading Director’s Cut which is just as entertaining as the previously mentioned title, albeit on the opposite side of the spectrum.

Bookish Goods

picture of "this Barbie reads...." bookmark

“This Barbie Reads…” Magnetic Bookmark by LikeStarlightStudio

As last year’s blockbuster proved, Barbie is eternal and is multi-faceted. Of course I choose the “romance” option here but there are four other options or you can get a custom order made. Prices start at $5.

New Releases

The Accidental Proposal by Y. M. Nelson

Jason is enamored with his new girlfriend, Fortune, and knows that she is the one he wants to spend the rest of his life with. But when a meet-up with his friends ends in a verbal altercation between her and one of his oldest friends, he is forced to face the fact that one of his oldest friends is a racist and firmly opposed to his interracial relationship. When it becomes apparent that this is a rift that won’t be mended, Jason soon finds himself having to choose between the love of his life and lifelong friendships that he may have already outgrown.

Please note that while this can be read as a standalone, it is second in the series. Also be sure to check the author’s site for trigger and content warnings.

The Mended Hearts Bookshop by Sienna Waters

After Ash inherits a bookshop from an aunt she never even knew, she looks at it as an opportunity to take a vacation and have some quiet time from the busyness of the city. She wasn’t expecting her neighbor would be Pen, a bubbly plus-size baker who is determined to win her new neighbor over through the magic of pastries. As time passes, Ash begins to acclimate to Pen and small-town life. But is the happiness she found there enough to make her want to give up her life in the city and settle there permanently?

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

Riot Recommendations

I am sure we can all agree that Romeo & Juliet is not a romance at all. That said, it can’t be argued that the formula of a family rival preventing two lovers from getting together is still used in a lot of romances today. I know I’ve read a few like this in the past and have enjoyed them since they, of course, ended with a happily ever after. That is the theme for today’s recommendations as well. Enjoy!

One Summer Night by Caridad Pineiro

Maggie Sinclair and Owen Pierce have always been drawn to one another, going so far as to share a single kiss one steamy summer night. Unfortunately, their families are bitter rivals, which means that they are unable to explore those feelings any further. When Maggie begins to have business trouble, Owen sees a marriage of convenience as a way to unite their families as well as give in to their desires. Neither expected to develop real feelings for each other or what would happen when they have to choose between the family they grew up with and a chance at true love.

It Had to Be a Duke by Vivienne Lorret

After Verity’s snobby neighbor returns from Town, boasting about her successful Season, Verity announces her engagement to Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst in return. The problem there? Not only is she not engaged to him, but his family is her family’s sworn enemy. News of his alleged betrothal reaches Magnus as he is about to marry another woman to save his family from financial ruin. When he confronts Verity about the fib, she begs him to keep up the ruse for one week. After that, they can return to their respective lives. But as they soon find out, a lot can happen in one week, even true love.

Kissing Books

Gaming and Baseball and Monsters, Oh My!

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

Sponsored by

The second half of Bridgerton’s third season was released and to say it was divisive would be a massive understatement. I haven’t watched it yet, because I don’t have a Netflix account. And, honestly, I’m never been a fan of Penelope and Colin’s story. However, thanks to TikTok snippets, I have a good idea about most of the changes and can see the concerns from all sides.

That said, I’m also willing to see how it plays out, because Francesa’s story is one of my favorites out of the entire series. After all, while I was not a fan of how they pitted Edwina and Kate against one another for Anthony’s affection in season two, and, while nothing will change my mind on that, I still enjoyed it for what it was.

Bookish Goods

Bridgerton Bookmarks by AKStationeryBoutique

With what is going on in the Romancelandia sphere across all the various social medias, it seemed fitting to share these Bridgerton bookmarks as today’s goodie. You can choose from five different styles and they are just $6

New Releases

Before I get into today’s new releases, I need to apologize about a mistake I made. In the last newsletter send, I said the Ashley Poston’s latest, A Novel Love Story came out this week. It actually won’t be released until next Tuesday. Super sorry for that; I was just excited for the book!

Match Game by Brittany Arreguin

Lydia spends her days working hard as the Director of Esports Gaming at her alma mater and her nights winding down with online gaming. One night, when her usual partner co-op partner is unavailable, she takes a chance on stranger PianoPuck18 and makes a surprising connection. She wants more, but her new gaming buddy is hesitant. Then she discovers he’s Griffin, a professional hockey player for the San Jose Stingrays. He keeps people at a distance, not wanting anyone to be negatively affected by his fame. Determined to prove she can handle it, Lydia proposes fake dating. When real feelings begin to develop between them, they’re left questioning if they want to make this fake relationship a reality.

The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson

After having too many beers at a baseball game, Daphne heckles Chris, one of the players, to the point of tears. Later, sober and embarrassed by her behavior, she reaches out on social media as “Duckie”, leaving out who she is. Having gone through a rough couple of months, Chris is happy to find some kindness in the online messages. But when Daphne starts working with the team in real life, their feelings deepen both on and off-line. Soon, she is left struggling with how to reveal the entire truth to him while still having a chance to hit a home run with him and love.

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

Riot Recommendations

With the world being what it is, I figured it was a good time for some light and fluffy romances. And while one may not think that those words go hand in hand with a monster romance, the overlap in that Venn diagram is actually fairly wide. Enjoy!

cover of I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend

I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend by Jessica Cage

Rayna is successful in every aspect of her life except love. After another disastrous first date, she gets drunk and, as a joke, uses a spell from one of her favorite fantasy books to summon a boyfriend. To her surprise, the spell is a real one that summons the moody demon Metice. The spell also had the added effect of binding the two. In order to sever the bond, the two must put aside initial misgivings and work together. However, the closer they get to said goal, the more they begin to question if it is what they truly want.

Muscles & Monsters by Ashley Bennett

The first time that Atlas and Tegan meet, the shifter helps the cake decorator avoid a pastry-related disaster. Deciding she needs to work on her cake-lifting skills, Tegan signs up for membership at Atlas’s gym, Leviathan Fitness. Shortly after doing so, Tegan finds herself trying to balance her career, new personal goals, and the undeniable attraction between the two of them. Is there hope for the two, or will the differences in their species prove too much?

Personally, I found this article about *the* change in Francesca’s story interesting and it gave me a lot of food for thought.

Pick a dessert and get your soulmate’s Zodiac sign. Mine ended up being accurate!

Kissing Books

Contemporary Romantic Adventures

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 14, 2024

Sponsored by

Recently, I decided to rearrange one of my reading carts to try to dismantle the precarious tower of stacked books on top of it. My endeavor was successful, with some creative arranging and a fair amount of setting books aside to rehome. The entire process reminded me how many unread books I had, which prompted me to comment out loud that I needed to stop getting new books until a sizable dent had been made. Which then prompted my husband to go, “Who are you and what did you do with my wife?”

Which, hurt feelings aside, was a fair response.

I hope that you enjoyed that anecdote. Onto the rest of the newsletter!

Bookish Goods

Dark Romance Tarot Card Lightbox by KnitAndPrintbyTia

I love this so much! Not only is it a Tarot card, which we all know is totally my jam, BUT it also LIGHTS UP! I know that this would transfix me for hours and would be a welcome addition to any bookshelf. $25+

New Releases

Ella Gets the D by Tanvier Peart

When Ella finally decides to leave her cheating husband, she’s left with almost nothing. So when her best friend offers her family’s townhouse rent-free, she jumps at the offer. The only thing Morgan left out was that her handsome younger brother Julian was also in residence. However, Ella isn’t sure she’s ready to jump back into another relationship while in the middle of a divorce, no matter how fine Julian is.

A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston

While on the road to her book club’s annual trip, Elsy’s car breaks down in the small town of Eloraton, which is the fictional setting for her favorite unfinished romance series. After reconciling herself to her situation, Elsy decides she’s here to help the town reach its satisfying conclusion. But the handsome but grumpy bookstore owner is equally as determined to stop her from finishing the story. The more the two interact, the more Elsy suspects that their respective happily ever afters are interwoven, and she becomes even more determined to see this story through to its end.

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

Riot Recommendations

Quick correction to last week’s rec before we jump into today’s. I mentioned rumors of another Mummy movie last week, and that it would be the third. While it would be the third with Rachel, it would actually be the fourth in the series. In my defense, I wasn’t overly fond of the third one, so I could have just blocked it out. But, it was still an error and I wanted to correct it.

Last Thursday, I mentioned how adventure romances were on the rise, something that Jessica Pryde predicted would happen a couple of years ago when she wrote this piece here. While I’m not one for being on an adventure myself, as I’m far too cautious, I do like to read about them, regardless of the time period.

That said, I did promise y’all contemporary adventures for today’s recommendations. While it could be argued that these are more in the “heist” hemisphere, I argue that they are still adventure romances. Both have high stakes, usually involve a treasure hunt of some kind, and death is always a real possibility. So, the overlap is there. Enjoy!

To Have and To Heist by Sara Desai

After Simi’s best friend is accused of stealing a multimillion-dollar diamond necklace, she sets clear her friend’s name by recovering it. When the charismatic Jack offers his assistance, she accepts it, along with the task of transforming a motley crew into a heist team, ready to steal the necklace back during a high-society wedding. Between a secretive bride, a handsome detective, and charming Jack, this soon proves easier said than done, leaving Simi to wonder if her heart and freedom are at risk.

Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai

Successful account Mira has it all, except for a stable romantic partner. Much to her matchmaker’s chagrin, no one is the perfect match she is looking for, including lawyer Naveen. When he ends up being the lawyer designated to settle her late aunt’s affairs, they resolve to keep it professional. That is, until they find themselves having to solve the mess her aunt’s death left behind, all while being chased all over Vegas by all sorts of nefarious characters. As the adrenaline builds, so does the sexual tension, leading them to wonder if they should give each other a second chance. That is, provided they survive the night.

If you’re looking to add more to your Pride reading list (although you should be reading LGBTQIA+ books all year round), then check this list out.

I always find it interesting to discover what authors like to read themselves. If you’re like-minded, then check out this list of recs from the duo that is Christina Lauren.

I enjoyed this quiz that let me know my Bridgerton personality, and it’s not just because I got my favorite heroine.

Exciting news for fans of Beverly Jenkins and her Blessings series!

Kissing Books

Historical Adventure Romances

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

Sponsored by

Last weekend, I was quite the social butterfly! On Friday, I went to the opening night of Gilbert & Sullivan Austin’s production of The Yeomen of the Guard with one of my besties. Saturday was breakfast with my husband and another bestie in the morning. And that night, I attended Austin Symphony Orchestra’s final performance in their Butler Pops series with another bestie. It was an homage to movie composer Jerry Goldsmith, and we enjoyed the performance so much that we treated ourselves to Season tickets for the 24-25 seasons.

All in all, it was one of the best weekends I have had in a long time. And yes, I have a lot of people I consider to be my best friends, and make no apologies for it.

Bookish Goods

HEA Pride Shirt by YANovelDesigns

I couldn’t let Pride month pass without sharing at least one piece of Pride gear! This shirt is gorgeous and meaningful and perfect for everybody. And this month it’s on sale, which means that you can get it for $19.

New Releases

One and Done by Frederick Smith

Taylor is a San Francisco university administrator who is working towards getting his school accredited. Dustin is a consultant who has begrudgingly returned to the Bay Area for an assignment. When the two meet at a drag brunch, they are instantly at odds with one another and walk away expecting to never see one another again. Then they discover that Dustin is the person who will determine whether Taylor’s school gets accredited. As they work together, an attraction slowly begins to develop between them. But, due to their professional relationship, more than their hearts are at risk.

Director’s Cut by Carlyn Greenwald

After former actress Val’s directorial debut is derailed by a bad interview. she leaves the limelight for a guest professorship at USC and a new career in academia. Maeve, her co-professor at the university, has little love for her new co-worker and is determined to send her back to Hollywood. When Val meets every challenge Maeve throws at her, Maeve begins to rethink her initial impression. Soon after, the two have settled into a comfortable professional and romantic relationship. But when Val’s directorial debut begins to get good press back in Hollywood, she finds herself having to choose between the love she found at USC and the big screen dream she still has.

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

Riot Recommendations

A couple of years ago, the most popular romance trend was the apron tuggers. Last year, romantasy ruled it all. If I were to bet, I would say that 2024 will be the year of adventure romances. People have been wanting the feel of movies like Romancing the Stone and The Mummy, and it shows. And, with the latter returning to the theaters later this year in honor of its 25th anniversary, rumors of a third, and the return of Rachel Weisz, I don’t think this train will stop anytime soon.

One of the best things about an adventure romance is that it can be set in contemporary or historical times, as evidenced by the two movies mentioned above. Today, I’m focusing on historical recommendations and will have some contemporary ones for Monday’s send. Enjoy!

My Beautiful Enemy by Sherry Thomas

When Catherine and Captain Leighton first met in America, they engaged in a short, passionate affair that ended in betrayal. When they meet again in London years later, Leighton is engaged to someone else while Catherine is on a mission that will hopefully earn her the independence she desires. However, despite how it ended the first time, the spark of attraction is still there. Will they have a chance to reunite under happy circumstances, or will it be a repeat of their first encounter?

Mystique by Amanda Quick

Lady Alice is not intimidated by the presence of Sir Hugh in her home, even though she no longer has the green crystal he wants returned. However, she also knows that she can help him recover it. That is, provided he can help Alice and her brother escape their nefarious uncle. Hugh agrees to her proposition under the condition that Alice act as his temporary betrothed. Soon, the two are in a battle not just to recover the stone, but for the love that has unexpectedly developed between them.

If you’ve been wanting to pick up an Alexis Hall book and aren’t sure where to start, this list has some good recommendations to consider.

For all my fellow enemies-to-lovers fans!

Take this quiz to find out your soulmate’s zodiac sign or this one to find your relationship status. Neither were accurate for me but they were fun to take!

And that is all I have for y’all today. Remember, you can always catch up with me over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

The Sweetest Science: 10 Gems of STEM-themed Romance

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date June 11, 2024

Sponsored by

This post is written by Isabelle Popp.

The popularity of Ali Hazelwood’s romances has helped codify STEM romance as a subgenre unto itself. To varying degrees, STEM romances have been around as long as romances have had characters with jobs (as opposed to aristocratic characters). In particular, within the category romance — these are the shorter romance books released monthly in themed lines — medical romances have been a staple for decades.

I love a romance with a cool job. In fact, I did a roundup of the coolest romance jobs, many of which are in STEM fields. And because I love you, dear readers, this list has no overlap with that one. There’s a delicate balance to including someone’s work life in a romance. I want an interesting setting, and I want to learn a fun fact or two. People’s choice of careers can also be a way to develop character. At the same time, their job shouldn’t be their only characteristic. Moreover, I don’t want to get bogged down in the details. I want the core drama of the story to be the romance itself. If I wanted more work drama in my life, I wouldn’t have quit that one job (I’m sure you can relate).

Another trait common to STEM romances is addressing the exclusion and prejudice that are rampant in certain fields. I experienced this firsthand, as a woman with a science degree who has worked in several STEM-related fields. One classmate told me I got better grades than him because of my girly handwriting. One professor flat-out told my quantum mechanics class that women “couldn’t do physics.” And the less time I spend thinking about my time working in the video game industry, the better. Reflections on these harsh realities belong in romance simply because romance explores and comments on the breadth of the human experience.

So here’s a lovely curated collection of nerds falling in love for you.

The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton

Amerie, on a relatably questionable impulse, has pretended she is with a rando hot guy nearby to save herself from an embarrassing situation. Vincent, the convenient dude, is an actual astronaut, and he plays along! Turns out, he could use a fake girlfriend to appease his overly involved family. Amerie could use a free place to stay so she can put money into her struggling business. Wins all around! They didn’t plan to fall in love, but this is, after all, a romance. Houston, we have a love connection.

Role Playing by Cathy Yardley

More male nurses in romance, please! Also more romances with characters in their forties and up! This book ticks both of those boxes. Maggie and Aiden meet via an online gaming group, but each of them has the totally wrong idea about how old the other is. When they meet in person, it’s definitely weird for a second. But then they figure out how well they fit together, especially in the face of their respective family drama. Aiden specializes in end-of-life care, which makes him a really special human being.

Spoiler Alert by Olivia Dade

A geologist falling in love with a hunky actor is the romance novel of my dreams, and yet it exists in real life. Geologist April, a cosplayer, goes viral for daring to be fat in costume, and actor Marcus asks her out to spite the haters. Turns out they already know each other from an online fanfic community, but they don’t figure that out immediately. People who want to read about women in STEM and the ups and downs of fandom get a double dose of nerdery with this delicious book.

Tempest by Beverly Jenkins

If you live under a rock and haven’t yet read a Beverly Jenkins historical romance, here’s a great place to start. Regan Carmichael is a mail-order bride on her way to Old West Wyoming Territory to meet her groom, Dr. Colton Lee. When does meet him, she shoots him. How’s that for a meet-cute? Regan is feisty, Dr. Lee is soft, and their path to love is tender. Beverly Jenkins is the gold standard if you love to learn as you read romance. This book will shed some light on the history of Howard University’s medical school as well as the adoption of germ theory.

cover of The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (August 6, 2024)

Ember has stretched the truth on her resume — both about her credentials and her ethnic background. Now she’s in a corporate job she loves, but that web of lies is still woven. When she meets the IT guy Danuwoa, they catch each other’s eye. But there’s a strict policy forbidding dating at her office. So the two of them date on the sly. Naturally, things are going to get out of hand. I love stories where fundamentally good people have to get themselves out of the messes they make! Read this, and you’ll realize that you, too, would risk it all for Danuwoa.

Hold Me by Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan is an author with STEM bona fides, given her graduate degree in chemistry. Obviously the best degree for a romance writer to have! In Hold Me, both characters have STEM-related pursuits. Jay is a physicist and Maria is a science blogger and statistics student. The two know each other via the comments section of Maria’s blog, but Maria is very protective of her identity as a trans woman. When they meet in person, not knowing their existing relationship, the dynamic is very different. If you like a romance that involves the breaking and remaking of a man with some toxic traits, you’ll enjoy this.

Wild Life by Opal Wei

This book is simultaneously so fun and so thoughtful. Zoey is a researcher working on the cure for the cancer that claimed her sister. When a vital tissue sample goes missing, she has to track it down — all the way to the rugged island estate of Davy, a former boy band bad-boy (say that five times fast). While the two of them are temporarily stranded on this island, they really have to face down their pasts and think hard about their futures. All while not getting mauled by the semi-domesticated cougar named Baby. Seriously, this is a delight.

The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee

(Full disclosure: my forthcoming romance debut is also a Harlequin Afterglow title.) Sapphic! Bowling! Romance! Do I really need to say more? Oh right, I do because it’s also a STEM romance. Grace is a new science teacher at her own former high school. There, she reconnects with Ava, another teacher and her former bestie. The two shared a kiss back in the day, but things really didn’t work out. Ava wants to hate Grace, but now they’re co-coaching the bowling team. If you love a small-town rivals-to-lovers romance, pick this one up.

A Drop in the Ocean by Nikki Winter

Kairo’s brother is getting married to her ex-girlfriend. Truly the only way to handle that situation is to bring a fake date to the wedding. And Kairo’s best friend, April, agrees to play along. The problem is, Kairo is already very much in love with April, and April’s fake affections are giving Kairo even more real feelings. Here’s the best part: Kairo and April are both marine biologists! Raise your hand if you, too, went through a marine biology phase! Raise your hand if you made it happen? High fives to those of you living the dream!

Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma

Kareena Mann is a hopeless romantic; television doctor Prem Verma is allergic to love. An argument between the two of them about the nature of love goes viral. While they should perhaps go their separate ways, you know they won’t. Prem’s dream clinic will be funded by Kareena’s aunties if he can convince Kareena that she is his soulmate. And Kareena will get her mother’s home if she can get engaged. So they are motivated to get together for practical reasons — and they discover they’re not as mismatched as they initially seemed.

Once you’ve read through this pile, you can find some more books in this same vein. We’ve got workplace romances, romances starring doctors, and authors like Ali Hazelwood. Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, and Romance. What could be better?

Kissing Books

Just Another Musical Monday

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 7, 2024

Sponsored by

Since it’s my birthday month, I’m currently in a “can’t buy things for myself” period. The exception to this rule is my BOTM subscription. And since it’s my birthday month, I get a bonus credit for an extra book. All this lead-up was to let y’all know that I recently acquired One-Star Romance and Leather & Lark, and can’t wait to get started on them.

That is, once I finish the half dozen books I’m already currently reading.

Bookish Goods

Regency Romance Pin by AwfullySentimental

With the second half of Bridgerton‘s third season just days away, this type of romance is likely on everyone’s minds. So, it only seemed fitting to share this pin. $10.00

New Releases

Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen

When Aaliyah’s family insinuates that her body and personality are the reason for her single status, the plus-sized beauty quickly retorts that her man loves everything about her. The problem is she doesn’t have a boyfriend. When she tells local bartender Ahmad about her predicament, he suggests a dating app as the solution to her problem. However, the more time she spends with the handsome man, the more she wonders if her perfect match has been right in front of her all this time.

The Curse of the Goddess by C.C. González

When the Skylian Princess Valda loses her vision before her 25th birthday, she misses the opportunity to find her soulmate. After the destruction of her home in the Sea Kingdom, Maris has lived her life as quietly as she could since, as a Sealian, she is unwelcome in the Sky Kingdom. When she’s assigned to be Valda’s new assistant, she finds herself working around the man she believes is responsible for the death of her family. Further complicating the situation is that it appears she is Valda’s mate and neither can resist the pull between them. Are they destined to be together, or will Fate be even crueler to them by keeping them apart?

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

Riot Recommendations

Today’s recommendation theme was inspired by Book Riot Managing Editor Vanessa Diaz’s recent guest post in the In Reading Color newsletter. There is apparently a lot of hatred for books that include playlists which, frankly, boggles my mind.

I love music as much as I do reading. When the two are brought together, in any capacity, it’s always chef’s kiss for me. Not only do I like playlists, but I also like it when chapters are song titles and when song lyrics are the titles for books. The last one there is what I’m going with today for my recommendations for you.

Also, if you’re interested in signing up for the In Reading Color newsletter, you can do so with this link. You can either choose “Basic” for the free content or set up a subscription for the bonus.

Now onto the recs!

Exes and O’s by Amy Lea

After dating apps lead to more than a few dead-end dates, romance book lover Tara decides to revisit her exes in the hope of finding love with the second-chance trope. She enlists the help of Trevor, her new roommate, to help get these reconnections set up. But the more time they spend together, the more she wonders if she’s been searching in the wrong trope.

Originally, when I picked this book, I was thinking of the Trisha Yearwood song, but you can also pair it with the Elle King song as well.

Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

After ER doctor Alexis has a one-night stand with carpenter Daniel, she’s unable to forget the encounter. Soon, she is dividing her time between her job in the city and Daniel’s farm, where there’s an endless supply of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, baby goat snuggles, and incredible sex. But the more time she spends with Daniel, the more she questions if she’s fulfilled with her current life or if a change is necessary for her to find true happiness.

This song has been in my head ever since I saw a burlesque performance to it last week. And yes, it was as interesting as you are imagining it would be.

Who doesn’t like their romances with a little dash of magic?

Here is Marie Claire’s round-up of some of the best 2024 romances (so far).

While I don’t mind the third act break-up, I know there are others who detest it. If you’re in that camp, then this list is for you.

And that’s all she wrote for today. Remember, you can always keep up with my adventures in book-land over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.