Category: Kissing Books

Tank Tops and Paranormal Recommendations

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

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.

Kissing Books

Let It (Slowly) Burn

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 4, 2023

Sponsored by

Here we are at the start of another week. Some of y’all with kiddos may be preparing for the return to school. We’ll be in that boat next week ourselves. I have to say that summer seems to get shorter and shorter each year, which makes me sad for kids nowadays. While it’s true they get a few more days off during the year, I hate he misses out on the “traditional” three-month summer I had growing up. Oh well; such is life.

Bookish Goods

Hardwood Bookmark with Book Holder by WoodTactics

I recently redeemed three of my BOTM credits for my August box. So something tells me I should consider investing in a book holder very soon. When you factor in they also come with their very own bookmark and the two fit together for easy storing? Seems like a win/win all around! Prices start at $17

New Releases

Accidentally in Love by Danielle Jackson

Aside from being loved ones for a soon-to-be-happily-married couple, Samantha and Russ don’t have a whole lot in common. She is the office manager for the Buxom Boudoir photography company in charge of the launch of the company’s “photobus.” He works full-time at a restaurant and has been tasked with getting the food truck ready for launch. These professional endeavors put them both at Chicago’s street festival and leaves more opportunities for them to run into each other.

Start Us Up by Lexi Blake

When tech genius Ivy trusts the wrong person, her promising career crashes and she has to move back in with her mother. Heath is a pro at writing code and believes it can be found in everything, even his grandmother’s legendary matchmaking skills. When they met, it seems like a mutually beneficial professional relationship for both of them. However, there is also that bothersome spark of attraction that doesn’t seem to want to go away.

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

Riot Recommendations

I recently finished You Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea. I had been working on it for a bit due to, once again, getting distracted by other books. But I enjoyed it overall. While I wouldn’t personally classify it as a cozy, as there were a lot of high stakes involved, I definitely would classify it as a slow burn.

Which of course got me thinking about slow burns in romances. I know that some people loathe these because they want all the sexy scenes, which is fair because to each their own. I am a fan of these types of romances, though, especially if the payoff is worth the wait. Now this isn’t always the case since there are some slow burns out there that are also off-the-page. But even then, for me, the journey is well worth it. With that said, here are some recommendations that I have for slow-burn romances.

The Neighbor Favor by Kristina Forest

One day while Lily is stuck on a subway, she sends an email to N.R. Strickland, the author of her favorite under-the-radar fantasy novel. To her surprise, he writes back and they start up a correspondence. After making plans to meet, he suddenly ghosts her, leaving her confused and heartbroken. Months later when she needs a date for her sister’s wedding, she asks handsome neighbor Nick, not realizing that he is the same man she talked with months earlier. Now he’s left searching for a way to explain what happened all those months before.

Screwdrivered by Alice Clayton

When software engineering genius and romance novel lover Viv inherits her grandmother’s house, she sees this as an opportunity to embark on an adventure and find a real-life romance of her own. When she finds out that the house also comes with a cowboy, she is even more sure of a love match. The only snag is uptight librarian Clark, who insists on calling her Vivian. As Viv is about to find out though, still waters run deep and the romance she is looking for may be with the last person she expects.

If you’ve been hearing about the recent discourse between Romance BookTok and the Seattle Kraken hockey team, this is a fairly good and neutral summary of the issue.

Pick a food in every color and get a Disney soulmate. I got Prince Edward from Enchanted, which gave me pause until I realized he has more than enough sunshine to balance my grumpy tendencies, so it pans out.

And if you like romantic suspense, here are some books to add to your ever-expanding TBR.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Thursday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime I can be found floating around over on the site that still Twitter in my heart under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

All the Pink (Covers)

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date August 2, 2023

Sponsored by

Last weekend I went to go see The Haunted Mansion with my partner and another one of our friends. And I enjoyed it thoroughly cause I felt it did a good job of balancing horror with comedy and having a unique story while simultaneously paying homage to the lore of the ride. If you’re a fan of the ride and the story behind it, I heartily recommend giving it a try.

Bookish Goods

picture of I Buy Books Like I'm Immortal sticker

I Buy Books Like I’m Immortal Sticker by MiasMakingThings

Where’s the lie though? I bought 13 books last month and I know that I will buy more next month. At least I also unhaul at a fairly healthy rate, so those scales are somewhat balanced. If you also buy books like you’re going to live forever, then this is perfect for you and prices start at $3.

New Releases

Entangled Desires by Abiegail and Madison Rose

Amaya is a single mother who is focused on raising her child and her career. This leaves little time for romance. But when she meets Lucas and Liam on the same night, she is torn between the two drastically different men. While she is trying to figure that out, her ex enters the picture and she soon finds herself drawn between three different men, knowing that whatever choice she makes will have a drastic effect on the rest of her life.

Right Guy, Wrong Word by Jewel E. Ann

Anna is excited to be up for picking her book club’s next pick since she just knows it will be a hit. Her hot new neighbor Eric is eager to be invited to join the book club, looking forward to the opportunity to make more literary friends and to get to know his neighbor better. However, when Eric misspeaks about something, their story seems to be doomed before it even has the chance to start.

This was originally released as a short story and has been revised and expanded.

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

Riot Recommendations

When it comes to movies, I’m actually fairly picky about what I’ll venture out to the theater for. The Haunted Mansion was not a question because I’m a big Disney nerd. That said, I am not unaware of the recent box office battle between Barbie or Oppenheimer movie.

In the spirit of being honest, I’ll state outright that I had no plans of seeing either. I was not a Barbie girl growing up; it was all about My Little Pony. And, to be honest, I didn’t even know a movie about Oppenheimer was in the works. However, hearing more about the Barbie movie makes me want to see it. I’m honest enough to admit that a good chunk is the pettiness rearing up in me. This movie has so many people of a specific demographic pressed that they’re bashing it at every chance, which is just silly.

If it’s not for you that’s fine. But don’t actively pooh on something that is bringing others joy. People seem to forget that you don’t have to do a verbal thesis on your opinion of everything pop culture related. Sometimes you can just say “It’s not for me but I’m glad it bought you joy.” Or not say anything at all.

Since I am petty and tired of haters in general, and to celebrate all the Barbie lovers who flocked to the cinema in a specific color, today’s recommendations all have pink covers. Enjoy!

Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood

In this collection of Hazelwood’s STEMinist novellas, we are introduced to scientists and lifelong friends Mara, Sadie, and Hannah as they settle into their lives post-grad and unexpectedly find love along the way.

Fake It Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley

After turning down a proposal on a reality dating show, Jada comes back to San Diego to lay low for a bit. There she starts working at the Sugar Blitz Bakery that is run by professional football player Donovan. When they’re mistaken for a couple, the two decide to use this to their advantage to help boost the bakery and redeem Jada in the eye of the public. Of course, neither expect to actually fall in love.

Congratulations, again, to The Ripped Bodice for opening up a new location in Brooklyn.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with another roundabout and in the meantime I can be found on the site formerly known as Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Working Together Towards Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date July 28, 2023

Sponsored by

How is it already the end of July? August starts tomorrow, and it’s hard for me to reconcile that school will be starting back up in a few short weeks. I’m feeling a bit of the guilt over not doing what I had planned to do with the Teenager this summer, but also, in my defense, it’s been too hot to really go out and do anything. I’m sure there were more than a few days where it was advised to not go out unless one absolutely had to. Still best-laid plans and all that. I’ll just have to try to him sometime come Thanksgiving and Winter Break when it should be slightly cooler.

Have you taken the time time to listen to First Edition, Book Riot’s latest podcast, yet? If not, you’re really missing out. Subscribe to hear them and stay to hear Book Riot’s editors pick the “it” book of the month, as well as interviews from popular authors such as S.A. Crosby and Khaled Hosseini.

Bookish Goods

Book Lover Decal by

I just love the the heart in the middle of the pages and will admit it’s the thing that first caught my eye. This decal can be put on your car, your laptop, reusable water bottle…anywhere really. It’s a great way to proclaim your love of reading and is priced at just $3.75

New Releases

Tastes Like Shakkar by Nisha Sharma

In this modern spin on Much Ado About Nothing, the spotlight is focused on event planner Bobbi and chef Bunty as they work together to ensure that Kareena and Prem’s wedding goes off without a hitch. Between the two of them butting heads and someone trying to sabotage the happy couple’s impending nuptials, this soon proves to be a complicated endeavor. There’s also the pesky spark of attraction between the two that seems to shine brighter each time they interact.

From Cold World, With Love by Alicia Thompson

One of the few things that Lauren and Asa have in common is that they both enjoy their job at Orlando resort Cold World. When their boss asks them to compete to come up with a plan to help drive more visitors, they eagerly take to it, wanting to outdo the other. They soon discover just how much trouble the beloved park may be in. Determined to save it from closure, they work together to save it, all the while becoming well aware of the attraction that is quickly developing between them.

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

Riot Recommendations

With it being the last day of July, I decided to end the month with some “Christmas in July” recommendations. Even if I have conflicted feelings about that holiday, both mid-year and at its designated time of year, I also know it brings a lot of joy to many people. So, far be it for me to deny that type of happiness just because it’s not one I share.

‘Cause I will admit for all my posturing that I do love a good holiday romance since it helps to warm my cold little heart.

My One Christmas Wish by D. Rose

Despite being more than willing to help celebrate her parent’s 35th wedding anniversary, Winter has no desire to find love. Her younger sister has different plans for her and sets her up on a date, and she goes, expecting, if nothing else, to get a few drinks out of the evening. Imagine her surprise when her best friend Gabriel walks in, eager to reconnect and perhaps make their friendship to more.

Christmas in Mistletoe by Clare Lydon

Much to her parent’s neighbors’ shock, music exec Fran fully intends on working through her holiday stay in Mistletoe. When Fran discovers that Ruby, a singer that she had a less than pleasant previous encounter with, is a local, it’s her turn to be surprised. After the two women are thrown together to plan a Christmas festival, they both realize that they may need to let go of the past to prepare for a possible future together.

I took this quiz just for fun and, in a surprise to absolutely no one, I’m sure, got romance. For what it’s worth, I would have also accepted horror.

Here are some sexy summer romances for your consideration.

This tweet is entirely too loud.

Likely the number one reason I shouldn’t work in a bookstore.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes Thursday with a fresh newsletter. In the meantime, you can still find me posting over on the site formerly known as Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.