Category: Kissing Books

Categories
Kissing Books

Love At the Con

Hello and 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.

We’re almost at the end of another week and I’m especially excited for this one because it’s start of a week off from my day job for my birthday. I’m not planning on doing anything huge for it though; just spending time with family and friends to celebrate it. But the idea of a week off to read and relax sounds glorious. I’ll still be writing the newsletter though, so no worries there.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of rainbow book sleeve

PRIDE Rainbow Book Sleeve by BirdieQPlusTwo

This is a gorgeous book sleeve and I adore it to pieces. What I especially love about this one is that there are multiple options for ereaders and physical books. So no matter what your reading platform preference is, you can still use it. Prices start at $22.

New Releases

cover of The Honeymoon Mixup

The Honeymoon Mix-Up by Frankie Fyre

After being left at the altar by her fiancée, Basil is determined to still enjoy the honeymoon. However, as the resort is ‘couples only’, she can’t go solo. Enter Caroline, the PI who was hired to investigate Basil. Sensing that a fake marriage is the perfect way to do it, she agrees to act as her faux wife. Once they’re at the resort, real feelings begin to develop and soon Caroline is in a position of choosing between her career and love.

cover of A Game of Romance and Ruin

A Game of Romance and Ruin by Ruby Roe

Stirling and Princess Morrigan are former lovers who are issued a challenge by the Queen. That challenge is to protect the kingdom from an impending threat or risk Morrigan losing her crown forever. The two women must overcome the betrayal of their pasts to fulfill their task, all the while ignoring the dormant feelings that are starting to reignite between them.

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

Riot Recommendations

This weekend my city is having its annual Comic Con. I personally won’t be attending — as much as I like the idea of fan cons, my slight agoraphobia means that crowds are never a good idea. It also always happens to coincide with weekends when I have plans. While I still maintain that I will attend one year, it shan’t be this one.

However it gave me a great idea for today’s recommendations: romance novels that involve a fan convention in some way. After all, if you can’t go to one, you can always read about them!

cover of What Happens At Con

What Happens at Con by Cathy Yardley

Between all the crap life has been throwing at her, Ani desperately needs a break and decides that a one-night stand at a con is just what she needs. While her partner for the evening, Abraham, is usually a short-term guy himself, something about Ani makes him want to go in for the long haul, even if Ani is content with the one encounter. He becomes determined to prove to her that just because their first interaction started off as just one night, it doesn’t mean it has to stay that way.

cover of Out of Character

Out of Character by Annabeth Albert

When Jasper’s ex-best friend Milo comes back to his life needing his help with replacing some collectible cards, the former begrudgingly agrees. However, this is on the condition is that Milo helps him with his charity ball for the children’s hospital. As the two former friends work together to help each other out, they’re also given the opportunity to work out what went sour all those years ago as well as examine what the future could hold for them.

Check out this interview with author duo Christina Lauren about their latest release The True Love Experiment.

Here are some recommendations from The Ripped Bodice for low/no spice and ace representation.

One of my current reads is The Fiancée Farce which prompted me to check out the author’s website where I found this fun quiz. So of course I took it and got Elle which wasn’t a huge surprise all things considered.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back next Monday with another edition of the newsletter. In the meantime you can find me posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

Teenage Nostalgia and Summer Bingo Recommendations

Hello and 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.

It’s been a while since I’ve mentioned a random thing that is bringing me joy. And that is channeling my inner semi-moody teenager by marathoning Daria on Paramount+. I loved this show and years ago, even got the entire series on DVD. Now I know streaming it when I own it may seem lazy. But something something convenience about pressing Play on an app versus hunting down the DVDs. And I’m okay with that.

I am currently reading Love, Theoretically and am enjoying it, and I’m also still working my way through You Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea and Killers of a Certain Age.

Don’t forget to check out The Deep Dive for some insider insight into the bookish world from various professionals in the field. Currently, Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers is available to read for free and will give you an idea of what content you can expect from it. If you’re game, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Heart Bookmarks

Pride Flag Hearts Bookmarks by ShopGiGiAndBo

You can never have too many bookmarks, especially when they are as cute as these are! Prices start at $3 and there are a total of 16 options to chose from.

New Releases

cover of Can't Let Her Go

Can’t Let Her Go by Kianna Alexander

In addition to being good friends and core components to their friend squad, Peaches and Jamie are also both at a crossroads in their lives and the choices they make will have a rippling effect on everything. Will there be time on this journey of self-discovery to move from just friends to something more?

cover of Sunshine and Silk Boxers

Sunshine and Silk Boxers by Joi Jackson

Lingerie designer Gia has moved back home to Kissing Springs ready to jumpstart her boutique that utilizes 3D printing technology. She enlists the help of her best friend Winston for this endeavor. Winston agrees, viewing this as the opportunity to let Gia know he wants to be more than friends. However, there is another man from Gia’s past who has moved to Kissing springs and decided he wants more than one night from her. Will Gia be able to choose between the two or will she end up heading back to the big city?

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

Riot Recommendations

As mentioned in a previous edition, The Ripped Bodice recently announced their summer Bingo card for 2023. Check out the fun short they put together with this announcement.

Now I’ll be honest in saying I probably can’t help get all the squares since I’m blanking on options for some of topics. For the life of me I cannot think of a book where there was a legit fainting couch. But I can help y’all with at last two of them with today’s recommendations.

cover of Along Came Love

Along Came Love by Tracey Livesay

Square: It Was Supposed to Be One Night

When India has a brief two-day fling with Michael, she thinks it is just that. Months later she finds herself pregnant with his child and in jail in San Francisco with no one else to call for help but him. When Michael arrives to bail her out and finds out he’s the father of the baby, he insists on her staying until the baby is born. Soon, the close proximity reminds both parties of what brought them together in the first place and that this is the perfect opportunity for a second chance.
Okay this one may be pushing the envelope a bit since the affair lasts two nights, but I think an argument could be made.

cover of Bitter Spirits

Bitter Spirits by Jenn Bennett

Aida is the rare performing medium in that she can actually summon and communicate with the departed. Winter is a bootlegger who has suddenly found himself on the wrong side of a hex that makes him a magnet for ghosts. Aida is called in to help get rid of the spirits as well as work with Winter to find out who cursed him. As they work together, an attraction soon begins to develop between the two of them and they know that it is something they will have to discuss when all of this is done with.

In somber news, prolific romance author Julie Garwood has passed away.

If you’re needing more sizzle in your life, these romance novels may be perfect for you.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Thursday with another edition and in the meantime you can find me over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Forced Proximity Romances

Hello and 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.

Y’all, I had a great time at the Passport Party this last weekend. I got to mingle with other like-minded book lovers, played trivia and found out some interesting facts about the various bookstores that were visited, and my friend ended up winning a bookish goodie bag in a raffle. All in all, it was a great time and here’s hoping it will happen again next year for IBD or maybe even Bookstore Romance Day, which is the third week of August. I’m already gearing up my wallet for that!

Before we dive into romancelandia, are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Rainbow Library Pin

Libraries Are for Everyone Pin by GoodGoodCat

I’ve talked many times before about my love of libraries and honestly I could go on forever about it. I love that this pin shows that libraries and the books are for everyone across all spectrums, despite certain people who, in the U.S. at least, are actively trying to get rid of anything that isn’t white and heterosexual. Show off your support with this pin. $11

New Releases

cover of Mr. One and Only

Mr. One and Only by Sharon C. Cooper

Genesis knows that dating her boss wasn’t a good idea. But she couldn’t help the temptation of the handsome Noah and then, to top that off, she had to go and fall in love. When Noah is ready to move their relationship to the next level and proposes, another man from her past comes back into her life. Genesis, caught between the two men, turns down Noah’s proposal to try to focus on what her next move should be. But when an unexpected development arises, she knows Noah is the one for her and hopes that it isn’t too late for them.

cover of Romancing the Gorgon

Romancing the Gorgon by Tallie Rose

When witch Lettie’s grandmother dies, she expects that her half of the Stone and Sorcery Lodge will pass onto her. However, there is no mention of it at all, leaving Lettie befuddled. Months later she is called back to visit the town lawyer and runs into Chandler, her Gorgon ex-girlfriend. Chandler’s grandmother is the other owner of the inn and has left them both half with the stipulation that neither can sell their half for six-months. Close quarters and unresolved feelings seem to be the perfect ingredients for these two women to consider a second chance at their love, with the added bonus of running a successful business together.

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

Riot Recommendations

I took this fun quiz over the weekend to find out which Sapphic Romance Trope I was and got just one bed. This is just a super specific version of the forced proximity trope, which is always a fun one. So I decided that would be a great theme for today’s recommendations, since it has been a while since I’ve done that trope.

The Bride Test Book Cover

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang

Esme has the opportunity to come to America and make a better life for her and her daughter. The only thing she has to do is convince Khai to marry her. The snag there is that Khai is certain he can’t feel love and ignores her when his mother moves her into his house. However, as the days pass the two find themselves drawing closer and closer to one another and wonder if their somewhat inauspicious beginning is the perfect set up for a lasting love.

cover of Hairpin Curves

Hairpin Curves by Elia Winters

When Megan is invited to a wedding in Quebec, her ex-best friend Scarlett offers to take the trip with her and be her plus one. Even though Scarlett has had a crush on Megan for years, she would be happy to be back in her life platonically. As often happens with long drives, the two women begin to talk and find the little joys in their adventure. And when a snowstorm forces them to seek shelter and wait it out, the close proximity opens the opportunity for their re-emerging friendship to develop into something more.

Queer kissing books!

The Ripped Bodice has released the card for their 7th Annual Summer Romance Bingo game.

Another surprisingly accurate quiz for yours truly.

And that’s all I have for y’all this week. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime I can be found floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Pride Mugs, FWB, and Secret Identities

Hello and 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.

After staying stagnate for a bit, I feel like I’m on a book-finishing spree. In the last week I have finished Lone Women, That Summer Feeling, and Her Big City Neighbor. I’ve also been keeping fairly steady with trying to keep my intake and outtake balanced since I am both DNFing and unhauling regularly. Go me on keeping up with the bookish goals!

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it. If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Read Queer Books mug

Read Queer Books Mug by BookishlyUK

We’re almost halfway through Pride month, which is why I’ve been trying to boost a lot of that swag lately. However, this sentiment is true all year ’round and genre wide, which means that you can use it for all your preferred beverages no matter what month it is. $17

New Releases

cover of Mr. Play for Keeps

Mr. Play for Keeps by Kimmie Ferrell

When Nathaniel finds himself suddenly in need of a vendor for D.C.’s four-day long Juneteenth celebration, he turns to his FWB Stephanie, owner of her own holistic skin care company. Not only does he think she would make a great addition to the line up, but it will also give him the chance to try to prove to her that their temporary arrangement would be even sweeter as a permanent one.

cover of Love, Theoretically

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

In addition to her job as an adjunct professor, Elise also has a somewhat lucrative side hustle as posing as the fake girlfriend for people who need it. Her worlds seem destined to collide when Jack, the man who is the head of physics at MIT and who ruined her mentor’s career, also turns out to be the brother of her favorite client. And the professional friction between them seems to run the risk of developing into something more like love.

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

Riot Recommendations

Last week I went out to dinner at a local wine bar with one of my friends and, as often happens with us, we got to talking about everything, including romance novels. She’s one of my longest friends and we discovered a love of romance novels together back in middle school, something which has stayed solid since.

Back when we started reading romances, the genre was nowhere near as robust as it is now. Presently, there are so many options out there that there is something practically for everyone, even if it may not be for us personally. One of my personal struggles is the dark romance genre. As I told my friend, I can’t do “dark;” the furthest I can usually go is “dusk,” and even then it’s pushing it.

However, I know that a lot of readers love dark romances and I’ve never been one to yuck someone’s yum. So, with that in mind, I’m going to recommend some dark romances for the readers that love it or want to dip their toe in that.

*Please* be sure to check for the various trigger and content warnings, though since, with it being dark romance, there will be more than usual.

cover of Captive in the Underworld

Captive in the Underworld by Lianyu Tan

This is a dark Sapphic spin on the Hades and Persephone myth. When Persephone, away from her tyrannical mother’s grasp, is pulled into the Underworld, she quickly discovers she has traded one prison for another. However, beneath Hades controlling outer layer is a woman who yearns for romantic love.

cover of Wretched

Wretched by Emily McIntire

Evelina is the brains, brawn, and botanical mind behind her family’s drug empire, which makes her a Jacqueline of all trades. Needing one night off from the pressure of that life style, she engages in a one-night stand. Afterwards, she’s determined to get back to her life but what she doesn’t know was that her one-night stand was undercover DEA agent Nicholas, who is determined to take down her family’s empire no matter the cost.

Here’s one for my Taylor Swift fans.

If you’ve been feeling like romantasy, then this list has you covered.

Match the quote with the rom-com.

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

Categories
Kissing Books

Bookish Pride Flags

Hello and 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’m really excited for this weekend. I mean, I am typically excited for any weekend honestly because it’s a break from work but I’m even more so for this weekend because I get to attend the passport party Lark & Owl, one of my local indies. You may remember me mentioning it in a past newsletter, but just in case a reminder is needed, it was something that they created for Independent Bookstore Day to encourage readers to visit as many indie bookstores as they could. Well my friend and I managed to get all of them so we get to party! *confetti*

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Flag Book Stickers

Subtle Pride Stickers by therainbowbookshelf

I am slowly growing back into the love of stickers that I had when I was younger. Although to be fair, I’m not sure I ever really grew out of it. I just stopped allowing myself the joy of collecting them. In any regard, here are some stickers to show off your pride and love of reading. $4

New Releases

cover of Mr. Straight Up No Chaser

Mr. Straight Up No Chaser by Sherelle Green

After being selected to be Mr. Black Chicago, Porter is even more determined to make his city’s Blackout Fest the best Juneteenth celebration ever. This means he will not accept any deviations from his pre-determined plans. However, body positive vlogger Alanna is equally as determined to have her input listened to, which results in the two butting heads even as the attraction simmers. But when secrets from the past threaten Alanna’s present, Porter may be the only one who could help make or break it.

cover of Keep Your Witches Close

Keep Your Witches Close by Colette Rivera

When a string of witch disappearances brings Authority Witch Mea to Paranormal Investigator’s Juliet’s town, the former begrudgingly resigns herself to working with the latter. They have a past that Juliet is not willing to unpack just yet but Mea, in addition to wanting to protect Juliet, is committed to getting the other woman to at least like her as a friend once again, but hopefully something more.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Best Friend’s Day! I didn’t even know there was a day for that, though I should have at least suspected there would be since there is a day for almost every other relationship out there.

I strongly feel that platonic friendships are super important and would argue that this is even more so true as we get older. This became even more apparent to me during the lockdown of 2020.

This sentiment holds true even in romance novels. Even though the focus is on the romantic relationship, the platonic ones play just as important a part in the development of the story and the character. They are the characters who are willing to do anything to protect the main character’s feelings but will also not hesitate to call them to the carpet when they are the ones that need to grovel.

And when we get to see the majority of the friend group fall in love? It’s even better. So, for your reading considerations, here are the first books in a series where we get to follow a group of friends as they fall in love.

cover of The Boyfriend Project

The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon

After finding out via a live tweet that she was being three-timed by the man she was seeing, Samiah and her new found friends decide to enter into a ‘no dating’ rule. Of course, just when she decides to focus solely on her career is when the handsome Daniel enters her life. But there is more to him than meets the eye and between that and her vow, this love story could be over before it even started.

cover of Rescued Heart

Rescued Heart by Georgia Beers

Due to how organized and detail-oriented she is, Lisa is in charge of all things adoption-related at Junebug Farms. It also doesn’t hurt that she can keep her emotional cards close to her chest. This is challenged though when she meets the newest volunteer dog-walker, Ashley, who seems to be the complete opposite of Lisa. And we all know what they say about opposites attracting…

Here are some of the romances that readers are loving right now.

This dessert quiz will tell you if someone has a crush on you or not. I am not sold on the science behind it but I totally got a craving for sweets after!

And that’s all I have for you today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh edition. In the meantime you can find me lurking on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Have You Hugged Your Cat Today?

Hello and 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.

In the last newsletter, I mentioned how June was when a lot of people were trying to reevaluate and/or catch up on their reading goals of the year — a boat I am also firmly in. Numbers wise, I am at 27/52 books read, which is six books ahead of my goal; so pretty pleased there. Speaking of reading materials, one of the books I’m currently reading is That Summer Feeling, which was released last week, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I agree with this sentiment on the vibes of the book.

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed into it. If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included and then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Pride Flag Book Earrings

Pride Flag Book Earrings by RaleighButtonCompany

These rainbow bookish earrings are a perfect way to celebrate Pride month and the love of reading. $12

New Releases

cover of Mickey Chamber Shakes it Up

Mickey Chambers Shakes it Up by Charish Reid

Mickey is an adjunct instructor who decides to take on a part-time job at a local bar to help ends meet. Diego is the owner of said bar — which makes him her boss — as well as a student in the online writing class Mickey is teaching that summer. This set-up, plus their grumpy/sunshine pairings, could make for a difficult relationship all around, but Diego can’t deny the way Mickey brings life to the bar and makes it a popular place to hang out. And neither can ignore the attraction simmering between them.

cover of Love is All

Love is All: Volume 6 by Xio Axelrod, Piper Malone, Susan Scott Shelley, Chantal Mer, and others

This collection of short stories is the next installment in the series highlighting stories from and about people from the LGBTQ+ community and the love they find. Be sure to pick this up ASAP since it will only be available for a limited time.

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

Riot Recommendations

Yesterday was Hug Your Cat day. Now I know that some cat owners may say that is something that you do at your own risk because they’re not always known for being down with physical signs of affection, which I know can be heartbreaking for some people, me included. I’ve always said that if I get a cat, I need one that will be okay with snuggling. I’m not going to Elmira the poor thing, but I would like occasionally cuddles without walking away looking like I got into a fight with a paper shredder.

However, it is still a holiday of sorts, so in honor of it, let’s highlight some romances with cats on the cover who may or may not always play apart of the plot. Enjoy!

cover of Sweethand by N.G. Peltier

Sweethand by N.G. Peltier

After a devastating and public break-up, Cherisse has sworn off dating for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately, even with her sister’s impending wedding as a distraction, her mother still works to try to set her up with every eligible bachelor. Complicating this is the fact that Keiran, a man who she has butted heads with in the past, is part of the wedding party on the groom’s side, which means she’ll be seeing more of him. Despite seeming to be completely not into him, one rainy night leads to them connecting on a level neither thought possible, and has them wondering what comes next.

cover of A Cat Cafe Christmas

A Cat Café Christmas by Codi Gary

If animal lover Kara can’t find a way to get her cat café out of the red and get more cats adopted, her dreams will sink before they have a chance to flourish. Enter marketing guru Ben, who, despite being a bit overbearing, has a great plan to help Kara get out of the hole. All they have to do is remember to keep that shaky wall between business and pleasure in place. That is a task easier said than done, especially when they start to get to know each other better.

Pick your preference and get a ’90’s heartthrob.

Congratulations to the Ripped Bodice on opening a new chapter.

Love’s Sweet Arrow also has a new space as well.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh edition. In the meantime I can be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Happy Pride Month!

Hello and 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.

It’s the start of Pride Month y’all!! *confetti* I’m super excited for it this month because I am going to try to actually go to at least one event. Who knows how my Cancerian homebody self will feel when the time comes! The goal is just to try so there’s that.

Are you looking for more in-depth insight into the bookish world from various professionals who are immersed in it? If so, then be sure to check out the Deep Dive. You can currently check out Sharifah’s The Power Reader’s Guide to Reading Logs & Trackers on us to get an idea of the content included, then head here to choose a membership level.

Bookish Goods

picture of Queer Romance Book Club decal

Queer Romance Book Club Decal by CalypsoBelleDesigns

Let’s kick off Pride Month with this awesome multipurpose decal that can be used to showcase your love for all queer romance. Since it is a download, you get to pick where and how to display it and there are options for multiple swag upgrades. That is what you call a win/win situation. $3

New Releases

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

Even If the Sky is Falling edited by Taj McCoy

In this anthology that features some popular names in romance, the possible end of the world is the perfect setup for romance to bloom between six couples who think that this may be their last night. Featuring rivals to lovers, second chances, and other popular tropes, there is sure to be something for everyone in this one!

the cover of That Summer Feeling

That Summer Feeling by Bridget Morrissey

Recently divorced Garland and her sister decide to do go to an adult sleepaway camp both to help Garland settle into her single life and to have an experience they didn’t as children. There she runs into Mason, a man she had a premonition about years ago after her wedding and wonders if the stars are setting her up for a new romance. However, despite what her earlier vision seemed to indicate, she finds herself being more drawn to Stevie, Mason’s sister and her bunkmate, and wonders if she misunderstood what she saw all those years ago.

the cover of An Island Princess Starts a Scandal

An Island Princess Starts a Scandal by Adriana Herrera

Manuela happily accepts an invitation to show her paintings at the 1889 Exposition Universelle, determined to have one final fun summer before being locked in a loveless marriage. Duchess Cora is equally determined to convince Manuela to sell her some property she is owner of. Manuela counters her offer with one of her own; she’ll sell if Cora will spend the summer with her in Paris. As the two women spend more time together, they connect over their love of art and find themselves falling for each other. The end of summer is fast approaching though which could prove to be the end of the affair, even though neither really wants it to.

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

Riot Recommendations

In addition to being Pride Month, June also marks the almost halfway point between the year. Notice I said almost since I know that, counting by days, that July 2nd is the actual halfway mark. But in terms of months, a solid argument could be made for June.

Getting back on track, this is the month that some readers revaluate their reading goals for the year and/or check their progress on challenges, such as Book Riot’s own Read Harder. I haven’t really dedicated recommendations to this yet mainly due to the fact that it’s sometimes hard to find a romance novel that fits the prompt. But I did some digging and was able to find some possible candidates if you’re still looking to fill some of those slots!

The Other Man cover

The Other Man by Farhad J. Dadyburjor; narrated by Ariyan Kassam

Read Harder Task 7: Listen to an audiobook performed by a person of color of a book written by an author of color.

Ved is a closeted gay man as well the unmarried heir to his father’s business empire. When he is still unmarried at 38, he agrees to let his mother set up an arranged marriage for him. Of course that is also when he meets handsome American traveler, Carlos, and has to struggle with either giving into the expectations of his family or staying true to what he really wants.

cover of An Acquired Taste

An Acquired Taste by Kelly Cain

Read Harder Task 13: Read an author local to you

In this first book of the Everheart Brothers of Texas trilogy, we meet Knox and Rowan, culinary school rivals who are now competitors on a reality cooking competition. However, there is more than just the kitchen heating up as they work through the various competitions and recipes, leaving them wondering if love is also on the menu. I may be cheating a bit since this only works for those in Central Texas, but it still sounds like an engaging read!

Pick a song and get your soulmate’s first initial. This was another surprisingly accurate one for me.

Here are some “stuck together” romances if that is your preference.

And that’s all I have for y’all this week. It’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming next week, which means you can expect to hear from me again on Monday. In the meantime, I can be found on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Categories
Kissing Books

New City, New Romance

Hello and 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.

Today is the last day of school for us here and it’s a half day. It’s hard to believe that my son’s freshmen year is already over and next year he’ll be a sophomore. I know he’s looking forward to having the summer off and doing what he wants to do all day: staying glued to a screen. However, I’m planning on enforcing a screen detox of sorts and trying to get him to explore more than the digital world. We’ll see how it goes.

Speaking of summer starting, as a heads up there will not be a newsletter due to Memorial Day being observed in the U.S.

If you haven’t already checked out Book Riot’s latest podcast First Edition, you’re really missing out. Here, co-founder Jeff O’Neal explores the entirety of the bookish world, using interviews, recommendations, and more from well-known people in the bookish community. The most recent episode has a discussion between Jeff and Khaled Hosseini and their thoughts on the 20th anniversary of The Kite Runner and its lasting impact.

Bookish Goods

picture of Forced Proximity Inn Tote

Forced Proximity Inn Tote by CrowAndWolf

With summer around the corner, I’m sure there will be a lot of trips to waterparks, regular parks, and other outdoor places, not to mention trips to the library for those who also want to enforce screen restrictions. What better way to carry all the incidentals you’ll need, or borrowed books, than this trope that is also an homage to one of the more popular romance tropes? $20

New Releases

cover of Oh So Wrong with Mr. Right

Oh So wrong With Mr. Right by Nadine Gonzalez

In Sasha’s family, there has been a history of runaway brides and she’s the latest one. With her sister’s wedding just around the corner, she enlists the help of Nikola to be her plus one for the paparazzi that will also be there. He agrees but also has a hidden agenda, which is to make the commitment-shy woman give love another chance with him.

cover of Always Emilie

Always Emilie by Alyson Root

Charlie and Emilie were schoolyard sweethearts at Pinkerton Academy until Emilie broke Charlie’s heart. Twenty years later, both women are back for their alma mater’s annual charity ball. Charlie is looking to avoid any contact with the other woman but Emilie, knowing that Charlie was the woman she let get away, is equally as determined to get a second chance.

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

Riot Recommendations

One of my best friends recently moved. And I don’t mean down the street or to another adjacent suburb — she moved an entire seven states away. That is a huge change and I know she’s nervous and excited. I’m super proud of her for taking this step because, while it is a huge one, it is also one she has been wanting to make for the last three years. But life and of course a worldwide pandemic prevented it until now.

Now, she didn’t do this for her significant other nor is she looking at this as a chance to start a new relationship. I feel like I need to make sure that’s clear in case she or any of our mutual friends read this. But it did get me to thinking how a big move like this is also the catalyst for finding a new relationship in a lot of romance novels. Sometimes it is the reason for the move and sometimes it is just a happy effect. Listed below are just a few that fit this mold.

cover of Her Big City Neighbor

Her Big City Neighbor by Jackie Lau

After bubbly Amy inherits a house in Toronto, she decides it is the perfect opportunity to move away from well-meaning family members and a selfish ex to start over and be her own independent person. Once there she meets Victor, her grumpy tattooed neighbor and starts up a neighbors-with-benefits relationship with him. But she also has to make sure she doesn’t put herself in a position to be taken advantage of again, no matter what secrets Victor may be hiding under his gruff façade.

cover of Leather and Lace

Leather and Lace by Rebel Carter

Mary came to Gold Sky Montana at her overbearing mother’s insistence, specifically to look for a husband. And it isn’t a ‘want’ situation but rather a ‘need’. When her first attempt at a match fails, she finds herself drawn to Alex, who also happens to be a woman. Not expecting to feel this way but also not wanting to pass up a chance at happiness, the two women take advantage of the openness of the small town to enter into matrimony.

If you like your romance with a thread of erotica, then this list is for you.

Here are just some of the 2023 romance releases that have already been published or will be soon.

And that’s it for today. Remember, you won’t get another newsletter until next Thursday because of Memorial Day here in the U.S. If you have a long weekend, I hope it’s enjoyable. In the meantime, can still be found posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Dual Timeline Romances

Hello and 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.

School ends this Thursday, which means that summer break is just around the corner for us. Well for the kiddo, anyways. Summer is different when you’re an adult ’cause, as we all know, you don’t really get the two and a half to three months off. Still, it can be fun as an adult; you just have to find ways to make it so. One thing I am doing to help with this is a throwback summer-long buddy read with one of my friends. We are primarily focusing on YA and MG horror that we read growing up, but other genres may get thrown in. Either way, it will be a reading adventure.

If you haven’t already checked out Book Riot’s latest podcast First Edition, you’re really missing out. Here, co-founder Jeff O’Neal explores the entirety of the bookish world, using interviews, recommendations, and more from well-known people in the bookish community. The most recent episode has a discussions between Jeff and Khaled Hosseini and their thoughts on the 20th anniversary of The Kite Runner and its lasting impact.

Bookish Goods

picture of steamy romance novel tshirt

Steamy Romance Reader T-Shirt by fuglybarbie

Keeping with the theme of throwbacks, isn’t this just an amazing shirt? I love the homage to the classic clinch cover and that it also showcases people of color with it. This is definitely a book I would pick up off the cover alone. $22

New Releases

cover of Sun of a Beach

Sun of a Beach by Mia Sosa

Despite the tropical setting, Naomi is not happy to be saddled with the task of accompanying Donovan along on the photo shop for the first swimsuit edition for M-Class Magazine. Donovan himself is none too pleased at this since he perceives it as a way to control his creative genius and goes out of his way to purposefully annoy Naomi. However, the island setting is the perfect background for a new romance to develop between the two and make them look at each other with new eyes.

cover of Love At First Set

Love At First Set by Jennifer Dugan

When gym enthusiast Lizzie agrees to accompany her best friend James to his sister’s wedding, she inadvertently ends up talking the bride out of walking down the aisle. Cara, said runaway bride, is now single and not sure what comes next. James convinces Lizzie to help Cara rebound with a quick fling, but as the two women spend more time together, real feelings quickly develop. Even though Lizzie is worried that she will never be good enough for Cara.

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

Riot Recommendations

One of my favorite romcoms that I also feel is vastly underrated is Forget Paris. My spouse was the one who introduced me to this movie years ago. He loved it and figured I would too because I liked romance. And he was right.

I think one of the reasons this movie is underrated is because it’s told in an interesting format. You hear about Mickey and Ellen’s relationship in flashbacks as their friends tell the story of their ups and downs with the most recent development being that they separated. Now, it’s still a romcom, so of course you know they end up together, but I will be honest in that it is something I would classify as an HFN since there is no way to know if they tried to work through their issues.

Still, I love that type of back and forth storytelling because it gives both aspects: the before and the after. And it shows how sometimes, even if people don’t readily admit it, love is hard and some days you have to work at it. With that in mind, here are today’s recommendations, which are stories told in a dual timeline.

cover of Back in the Day

Back in the Day by Katrina Jackson

While Amir is helping his father Alonzo pack up his home, he comes across a box of records that his father refuses to get rid of. Confused by this stubbornness, Amir pushes the issue until his dad relents and explains to him the history behind the box, which is the unfolding of his love story with Amir’s mother, Ada, that began in 1967. While I would agree that this is an unconventional romance novel, I stand by that it is still a romance because, even though it begins after her death, we still get to experience Alonzo and Ada’s love story and the they family built before her passing.

cover of Love and Other Words

Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren

This book is about estranged childhood friends Macy and Elliot and what happens after they run into each other as adults. It’s told in alternating timelines from when they were young friends to a period when they were more before they separated and then meet up again. When they do, they both realize it’s a chance to make amends for the hurt in the past and perhaps work towards a second chance at love.

Take this quiz to find how you receive and show love.

Plan a date and get which romcom heroine you are.

And that’s all I have for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with another romance-filled newsletter. In the meantime I can be found floating around over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Multiple Tropes for the Price of One

Hello and 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.

How are y’all doing out there? It’s been a minute since I’ve done a random check in so I hope that you’re doing well and if things are more challenging that they ease up soon. I’m in a “meh” mood myself so I’m just trying to take things day by day and appreciate the little things in life that bring me joy. Currently, one of those is the song Jericho by Iniko. It is pretty much on a constant loop.

Be sure to to check out Book Riot’s latest podcast, First Edition. BR co-founder Jeff O’Neal explores the entirety of the bookish world with interviews, recommendations, and more from well-known people in the bookish community. Be sure to listen to the most recent one to see if Jeff and Rebecca can help pick the “It” book for May and hear editor Erica Ezeifedi debut the new “Reading Stories” section where we learn about the time she tried to buy a new mom for a dollar, as one does!

Bookish Goods

picture of Spicy Literature Connoisseur shirt

Spicy Literature Connoisseur shirt by BrielleBelle

I love everything about this shirt. The phrasing, the imagery, etc. It’s a perfect addition to a T-shirt collection and to wear while reading one such piece of literature. I’m likely going to start calling myself this whenever someone asks what my preferred genre is. It comes in five colors and prices start at $29.

New Releases

cover of The Rachel Experiment

The Rachel Experiment by Lisa Lin

Rachel understands numbers more than people. So when she is made head of a team and given one year to become an effective leader, she has a few concerns. Unsure of how to do that, she heads out to try socializing which leads to a one-night stand with lawyer Luke. The next morning, she wants nothing more than to move past it. But Luke is more than a little intrigued by this woman and offers her a trade: he’ll help her learn how to ‘people’ and she will help him with opening up his own firm. And if love factors in along the way? That’s just the icing on the cake.

cover of Second Chance With the Demon

Second Chance with the Demon by Chace Verity

Crystal loves working in the world of video games but emphatically hates the misogynistic co-workers. This has caused her to keep to herself, which has resulted in a lonely five years. When the new CEO brings with them a new direction for the company, she worries her career is about to be shut down completely. Further adding to this life development complication is her demon ex-girlfriend Meena coming back into her life after disappearing 18 years ago. She is left wondering if all these new changes mean that a new path is on the horizon for her.

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

Riot Recommendations

You know what’s better than one trope in a romance novel? Multi-tropes! Also, does anyone else think of that one scene from The Fifth Element whenever they hear the word multi paired up with something, or is it just me?

Anyways, I love it when a romance novel has more than one trope in it. Don’t get me wrong though: I do think that there is a limit on how many tropes can be in a book before it just seems like a mess. But two or three? That I can get down with.

So that is what I’m recommending today; books with more than one trope. Enjoy!

cover of Bidding for the Bachelor

Bidding for the Bachelor by Jackie Lau

Tropes: sibling’s (ex) best friend, roommates, close proximity

As the only singleton left, Cedric is the only candidate for the bachelor auction to benefit his family’s charity. This results in a frenzied bidding war where Brian, Cedric’s brother’s ex best friend, rescues him by placing the highest bid. At their date, Brian finds out Cedric needs a place to stay and offers the spare room. With such close quarters, the scene is set for attraction to build and between the two men, resulting in a relationship that neither expected.

cover of All Downhill With You

All Downhill With You by Julie Olivia

Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, co-worker romance

Lorelai loves amusement parks, especially rollercoasters, so she enjoys her job at the Honeywood Fun Park. When the star rollercoaster breaks down with her at the top, engineer Emory is called in to fix it. He is the grump to Lorelai’s sunshine and, despite his job, not a fan of rides and only cares about his company. So naturally they are at odds. However as they work to repair the coaster, strong and unexpected feelings begin to develop.

If you’ve been craving some biker romances, this list has you covered.

Pick a romcom movie and get the perfect job.

Can’t argue with a list like this.

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