Category: Kissing Books

Categories
Kissing Books

So Long January…

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 last Monday of January 2023 y’all and…wow. I can’t believe the first month of the new year is already almost over. Overall, I would say it was a mixed bag. Naturally, I don’t love periods of all the lows because no one really does. However, periods of all the highs also put me on edge. That is because being the person that I am, I’m left in a perpetual state of waiting for the other shoe to drop. When there’s a mix of things, I feel it helps the day-to-day feel easier and you learn to appreciate the small things more. Of course, February is also an emotionally conflicting month for me due to it being a mix of birthdays as well as death anniversaries; so, we’ll see how that all unfolds.

You know what else is in February? Palentine’s AND Valentine’s Day! If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the bookish friend or paramour in your life, look no further than Tailored Book recommendations. After a quick survey detailing their likes, dislikes, and reading goals, our professional book nerds, also known as Bibliologists, or Bibs for short, will get to work selecting books for them. TBR has plans for every budget. Surprise your bookish boo with Tailored Book Recommendations this Valentine’s and visit mytbr.co/gift.

Bookish Goods

picture of Sleep is Good t-shirt

Sleep is Good But Books Are Better T-Shirt by CottonCanTee

The accuracy of this shirt resonates so much with me. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve stayed up late to finish a book and happily suffered the consequences of my actions the next day. This comes in 16 colors, multiple sizes, and prices start at $20.00. Plus, it has an owl, which is like one of the only birds that I actually like so that makes it a winner in my book.

New Releases

cover of Sorry, Bro

Sorry Bro by Taleen Voskuni

Shortly after a break-up following a rejected proposal, Nareh’s mother guilts her into attending the Explore Armenia event, hoping she’ll meet a nice Armenian man. However, it is Erebuni who catches Nareh’s interest and the two grow close as they go through all the scheduled events together. As they spend more time together, Erebuni helps Nareh to see the beauty in everything she is. As the end of the event looms, Nareh digs deeply to find the courage to proudly embrace everything she is: Armenian, bisexual, and head over heels for Erebuni.

cover of Commanded By Night

Commanded by Night by Zelda Knight

When shifter zoologist Veronica Lycan’s partner discovers a rare blood-borne disease found only in shifters, she knows that the only person who can help them out is vampire heiress Jessica. The only snag there is Jessica is also Veronica’s ex and she’s not looking forward to that reintroduction, even though she knows it’s the only way to find a cure. Will Veronica be strong enough to avoid the temptation that is her ex or will she give into the craving she can’t deny?

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

Riot Recommendations

We’re not even a full month into the new year and I’m already feeling like I’m slacking on my reading. I know, I know! It’s not a contest and even if it were one, my competition is me. I get that. But I also have a bad habit of starting multiple books at once and then getting distracted by other books and starting them, too. This is how I end up with five books on my “Currently Reading” shelf at one time.

Now, that can get tricky. Especially in situations where two of the books have characters with the same name. But more on that in Thursday’s recommendations. Regardless of outliers like that and feeling overwhelmed, I still enjoy it and am constantly adding more to TBR pile.

With that in mind, today’s recommendations are books that are follow-ups to ones I’ve read in the past and thoroughly enjoyed and hopefully will get to “soon.”

cover of Sabbatical

Sabbatical by Katrina Jackson

Dr. Toni Ward is really looking forward to the summer break before her sabbatical year and turning everything university-related off in her brain. As the week before said season begins, she begins to notice that her colleague Mike was acting strangely around her and that she was finding herself becoming increasingly attracted to him. Over the summer, she discovers that Mike has just been waiting to show her he was so much more than the lovable cornball she previously knew him as, and that there may be a non-work related future in store for them.

First book: Office Hours

cover of The Dating Playbook

The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon

Personal trainer Taylor needs a regular, well-paying gig that will allow her to pay all the bills that have been piling up around her. When former football player Jamar comes to her for training to help get back into the NFL, it seems like a golden opportunity. The only catch is that no one can know what they’re doing. So when they’re erroneously outed as a couple, they lean into those roles only to find out that fake dating only works if there are no real feelings hiding underneath.

First book: The Boyfriend Project

And that’s all for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh new edition. In the meantime, you can find me floating around on Twitter @Pscribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Unexpected Developments Aren’t All Bad

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.

As you’re reading this, I am starting a four-day weekend and I cannot articulate how excited I am. It’s been a rough couple o’ weeks, full of emotional highs and lows and I know that, in some aspects, that’s only going to get a bit more challenging. So, allowing myself this breathing room is something that Future Me is going to really appreciate.

I have book club this weekend which I am really looking forward to as well. We’re going to have brunch which will be fun. I just hope our table neighbors don’t get too bothered by our discussion since we tend to get very passionate whether we loved or loathed the book in question.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the bookish friend or paramour in your life, look no further than Tailored Book recommendations. After a quick survey detailing their likes, dislikes, and reading goals, our professional book nerds, also known as Bibliologists, or Bibs for short, will get to work selecting books for them. TBR has plans for every budget. Surprise your bookish boo with Tailored Book Recommendations this Valentine’s and visit mytbr.co/gift.

Bookish Goods

picture of wooden bookmark

Wooden Cozy Coffee Lover Bookmark by EveroseWoodcraft

Wood burned art is something that has always fascinated me. So naturally, I was drawn to this beauty of a bookmark. It also helps that I actually do love all these things if they’re combined together, although I would also accept a nice glass of red wine or tea, preferably Lady Grey or Gunpowder. $12

New Releases

cover of Top of the Key

Top of the Key by Avery Grey

Fifteen years ago, Drew made the biggest mistake of his life when he broke Melanie’s heart and left her to go pursue his NBA dreams. In response, she told him she never wanted to see or hear from him again. However, in the present, he needs her help to reel in his newest client Quinn, who reminds him too much of himself at that age. Will Drew be able to right the wrongs of the past and convince Melanie to give him another chance as well as help to set Quinn up for a long lasting and successful future?

cover of Do I Know You

Do I Know You? by Emily Wibberley

Five years into the marriage, the spark seems to be gone for Eliza and Graham and neither are really looking forward to their trip away for their anniversary. That is until another guest at the same resort mistakes them for singles and introduces them to each other as potential dates. This unexpected opportunity for roleplaying reignites their spark and they begin to remember why they fell in love. However as the end of their vacation nears, both are left wondering: will the passion still be there when they’re back at home?

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

Riot Recommendations

Last week I watched The People We Hate at the Wedding with my spouse because they had time off and I was in a mood to watch a movie, two things that almost never happen at the same time. I’m a huge fan of Kristen Bell and Allison Janney so I expected to enjoy it and laugh a few times, but I ended up liking it more than I thought I would and for different reasons.

To say it wasn’t what I expected would be an understatement. From the previews I saw, it seemed to be your typical raunchy rom-com with more than a few cringe moments. Kirsten Bell’s character has to go to her ‘perfect’ sister’s wedding and ends up causing all the chaos just because it follows her.

And, yes, there were moments of that. But overall? There was also a lot of emotion, more than I was expecting there to be. It focused on the entire blended family, not just her character which I did not expect from the preview, and you get to see their challenges and how they overcome them. I do recommend it, just go in with the expectation that there’s going to be a lot of feels to be had.

That got me to thinking of books that have hit me like that, where I went in expecting one thing and ended up with something completely different. Which isn’t to say that is a bad thing, but it can require some expectation adjustments as you’re consuming the material. So those are the recommendations for today. Rather than give a summary, I’m going to say why it was unexpected, without having spoilers.

The Duke Who Didn't by Courtney Milan cover

The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan

I have enjoyed all of Courtney’s books that I read but let’s be honest: they’re not what one would call light or fluffy. They take on hard topics and call out the unfairness of the world to marginalized people. And while there are still touches of that here, overall? It’s very cozy. I was very surprised with how sweet and cozy it was and even the Big Secret ended up not being that way. Highly recommend because it is like a warm hug which is nice sometimes.

cover of The Ex Talk

The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

There was a lot that was unexpected about this for me. I expected the ‘hatred’ to be more two-sided than it was when it was actually mainly on the heroine’s side and internal. It also dealt a lot with grief and the struggle we all go through when life changes happen. While I’m sure we all know that they are inevitable, it doesn’t make them easier and this tackles that head on.

If you’re looking for more cowboy romances, here are some worthy nominations for your TBR pile.

I am always here for sexy short stories.

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

Categories
Kissing Books

Happy Lunar New Year!

Happy Monday y’all and welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s the start of another week and I am determined to try to make this a better one. Despite Sunday being awesome with family time, the rest of the week was, to say the least, challenging and took more than a little bit of patience and grace to get through. So, I’m putting it out in the universe that it will be just cause I needs it.

Luckily, I also have some long weekends and half days coming up which will help with recharging. This will also allow me to catch up on reading since I haven’t “officially” finished a book this year. By that I mean that I haven’t gotten through anything I’m tracking on challenges or the spreadsheet, although I have already DNFed one. And I also managed to get Spring Break off as well, so that is a gift that Future Me is very much looking forward to.

Speaking of gifts, if you’re looking for the perfect one for the bookish friend or paramour in your life, look no further than Tailored Book Recommendations. After a quick survey detailing their likes, dislikes, and reading goals, our professional book nerds, also known as Bibliologists, or Bibs for short, will get to work selecting books for them. TBR has plans for every budget. Surprise your bookish boo with Tailored Book Recommendations this Valentine’s and visit mytbr.co/gift.

Bookish Goods

Book Tropes Canvas Tote Bag

Book Tropes Canvas Tote Bag by CloudCandyCastle

Who couldn’t do with more totes to haul books around in? Plus, this one lets you represent your love of romance tropes. $19

New Releases

cover of An Unsuitable Boy

An Unsuitable Boy by Sinclair Jayne Sawhney

When Asha’s arranged marriage gets canceled days before the vows are set to be exchanged, she is humiliated and figuring she will live the rest of her life alone, and so decides to settle back into her calm routine. Then firefighter Dhruv rescues her from a kitchen fire, and the experience awakens a side of her that she is suddenly eager to explore more of. Soon the two embark on a secret relationship that leaves them wondering if, despite their differences, this could be more?

cover of A Game of Secrets

A Game of Secrets by Zuri Day

Jake is determined to live his life without being tied down. That is until he meets a mysterious woman at a masquerade ball that seems to be everything he wants. When the masks comes off, he is beyond shocked to find Sasha, his best friend’s sister and the woman he’s supposed to protect is beneath it. Both of them know that an affair would be wrong for multiple reasons, but they also can’t deny that it feels so right, too…

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

Riot Recommendations

Yesterday was the Lunar New Year and we are now in the Year of the Rabbit, which means that we can expect a lot of longevity, peace, and prosperity this year. I sincerely hope that this proves to be true, since the world as a whole could use all of those things, especially after the last couple of years.

Jumping off from that, I’ve noticed there are more than a few romance novels, both Adult and YA, getting released this year that are centered around the Lunar New Year. This seems like a relatively new trend since there are still not as many books surrounding the holiday like there are for others. Still, in the last two weeks, we’ve seen the release of Lunar Love, a book that is currently in my reading stable, and The Year of Cecily.

Part of me hopes more is on the way because I love the representation these books bring, as well as how they allow for more romances to be centered around zodiac signs, which is one of my jams. So, here are a few more romance novels that center around or feature the Lunar New Year and/or the Chinese Zodiac.

Cover of A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year by Jackie Lau

A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Years by Jackie Lau

Nick is determined to dodge his family’s attempts at matchmaking and asks his friend Jo to pretend to be his girlfriend for the upcoming dinner to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Of course, since they’re from a small town, they have to set the stage by going out on pretend dates beforehand so the public can see them out and about. This leads to some kisses on said dates, just to get the grapevine buzzing. Of course, as often happens, these performative kisses lead to very real feelings leaving both willing to risk opening their hearts up once again.

cover of Trancing the Tiger

Trancing the Tiger by Rachael Slate

When the Red Death decimates the world, humanity’s only hope are 12 Warriors who are the living embodiments of the Chinese Zodiac. Two of these Warriors are Leah, who is the Rabbit, and leader Sheng, who is the Tiger. When their paths cross in Malaysia, Sheng informs Leah about her destiny, expecting her to meekly submit to his authority. Much to his surprise, she instead challenges and undermines it at every turn, which in turn leads to the romantic tension between the two of them increasing.

If you’re looking for a feel-good romance to curl up with this winter, check some of these out.

This list has a few good reads if brother’s best friend is your go-to trope.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with a fresh new edition and in the meantime you can find me occasionally floating around the Twitter-sphere under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Revenge Spiced Romances…and Maps!

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN Hinton, here to update you on world of romance. I hope that the week so far has been kind to you and that, if it hasn’t, at least you will have the opportunity this weekend to recharge and get ready to take next week on.

Personally, the thing I’m looking forward is doing the least amount of driving possible. I went to Houston and back in one day, a drive that I normally would not take in that amount of time. But it was my Aunt’s 80th birthday party, which is a pretty big deal. So, of course I was going to make it happen. And, since we haven’t really seen each other en masse since December of 2019, it was really nice to see a lot of my extended family members.

As a matter of fact, I was more social last weekend than I have been in a very long time. I had dinner with a friend Friday night at a local gaming tavern. I had breakfast at Waffle Love with another friend Saturday morning which was followed by some shopping at Barnes & Noble where I picked up Jayci Lee’s One Night Only. Then the party on Sunday. So yeah…looking forward to a little bit of down time.

Speaking of beloved family and friends, if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the bookish friend or paramour in your life, look no further than Tailored Book recommendations. After a quick survey detailing their likes, dislikes, and reading goals, our professional book nerds, also known as Bibliologists, or Bibs for short, will get to work selecting books for them. TBR has plans for every budget. Surprise your bookish boo with Tailored Book Recommendations this Valentine’s and visit mytbr.co/gift.

Bookish Goods

picture of Scenic Romancelandia

Scenic Romancelandia Map by LetsGetLitStudio

This map is an adorable digital print that sets up multiple tropes as places to visit on a map. It very much reminds me of vintage maps from amusement parks and the like and is sure to jazz up any library. You can purchase and print out on your end and there are five different sizes to choose from. The toughest part will be figuring out exactly where to display it. But honestly at only $4, you can afford to get multiples if you’re so inclined.

New Releases

cover of Love Report

Love Report by Shelle Marie

Kendra is a celebrity news reporter and Dan is a professional baseball player. They had a romantic encounter in the past that ended less than pleasantly for either one of them. When Kendra reaches out to interview him for a story, she is determined to guard her heart against his flirting. Dan, on the other hand, is determined to make up for his wrongs from the past and try to win another chance at her heart.

cover of A Guide to Being Just Friends

A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

Neither Wes or Hailey are looking for love which is why when they happen to have a disastrous meet cute, it’s more embarrassing than anything else. However, Wes still feels compelled to reach out to apologize for his behavior, and from there a friendship blooms and both are determined to keep it that way. After all, neither is looking for more…right?

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

Riot Recommendations

I mentioned in one of the last newsletters that I recently finished Legends & Lattes and when I read the last page, I sighed out loud and told my spouse that the book satisfied my needs for coziness, Sapphic love, and revenge. His eyebrow arched a little at the last bit, but I said what I said and I stand by it.

Now to be fair, the revenge was a very small part of the resolution. Still, I’ll be honest in that I’m perpetually petty. My motto is “I stay petty so I don’t have to get petty” and if pushed far enough, I am vengeful as hell. That side is not something I let come out very often because, despite what I may say in passing, I’m not that far gone into my villain arc.

That said, I still love a good revenge plot, which is one of the reasons I liked the resolution of the aforementioned book and Two Wrongs Make a Right so much. Which leads me to my recommendations for today which are romances that feature a revenge plot.

cover of Unveiled

Unveiled by Courtney Milan

Ash Turner is determined to right the wrongs that were done to his family in the past and resume his rightful dukedom. Lady Margaret is the daughter of the man Ash is taking his revenge on; she infiltrates the house disguised as a maid to spy on him and help restore what her family has lost. They are drawn to one another and soon find themselves conflicted with their mission to restore honor to their family or start a new chapter for both sides that is rooted in love.

cover of Deceptive Innocence

Deceptive Innocence by Kyra Davis

Bell’s mother died in jail, serving a sentence for a crime she didn’t commit. Once she grows up, Bell vows to take vengeance on the family and infiltrates their close fortress by setting out to seduce Lander, the youngest brother. However, as she gets deeper into the game, she realizes that there is more to Lander than what the surface shows and then he may be more ally than enemy. This is a duology, so you will need to pick up the second one, Dangerous Alliance, to get the resolution to Bell and Lander’s story.

And that’s all she wrote for today y’all. I’ll be back on Monday though and in the meantime, I can be fond floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Second Opportunity and Unexpected Chances Romances

Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope that this Monday morning finds you as well as can be for…well…a Monday morning. I know that those can be challenging just because they are what they are but, hey, at least we have coffee right?

While coffee has always been my friend, in the last couple of weeks it’s become even more of a staple in my life. Between my spouse and I, we got a lot of coffee over the holidays. So, there is a variety of flavors to choose from. Which is nice since the reason I tend to go to coffee shops is for a change of pace. Don’t get me wrong, occasionally I do still treat myself. But mostly I make do with the brew at home, something my bank account is grateful for.

In “currently reading” news, I’m still working on Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute and Back in a Spell. I also started Lunar Love as well as The Gentlemen’s Book of Vices.

Bookish Goods

picture of reading Romance Candle

Probably Reading Romance Candle by BookedCandles

Now, I do actively try to read a variety of genres outside of romance, save for a few that I just can’t get into. And in the year of 2023, I am not making myself read anything that doesn’t bring me joy. That said, this would still be a fairly accurate candle for me to light when I’m relaxing and reading since chances are I am probably reading a romance. $23

New Releases

cover of The Year of Cecily

The Year of Cecily by Lisa Lin

Determined to take charge of her life, Cecily comes up with a list of resolutions to tackle after she celebrates the Lunar Year with her family. One thing that isn’t on the list is forgiving Jeffrey, the ex who broke her heart a decade ago. Now a successful screenwriter and regretting the way he ended things years before, Jeffrey is determined to convince Cecily that there is a second chance in store for them.

cover of Her Enticing Muse

Her Enticing Muse by Violet Cowper

Aspiring artist Maria runs away from an arranged marriage and heads to London to beg accomplished portraitist Stella to take her in as a protégé. Against her better judgement, Stella agrees and soon an attraction begins to develop between the two women. However, the differences in them are numerous and when Maria’s blunt nature threatens Stella’s otherwise calm life, will she be willing to risk it all for a chance at love?

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

Riot Recommendations

We’re halfway through January already, which is a statement in and of itself. I know that the beginning of this month is the time most people make their resolutions, and thanks to the “diet culture” that shows up every couple of years, most of these tend to be related to eating better, losing weight, and working out. Which is great…if you’re doing it for you. If you’re doing it because someone told you should, well…that changes things.

One thing I am gradually coming to terms with as each year passes is that the way you look is not going to be pleasing for everyone. There is just as much hate for people who seem “too skinny” as for those who are considered “too big.” I have friends in my life on both sides and skinny people get told to eat a hamburger just as often as plus-sized people get told to put it down. There will always be people in the world who are gonna hate on you no matter what. This is typically because they’re so miserable in their own lives that their only joy is tearing others down. And to them I saw with all of my chest:

Jog. On.

With that stated, I am plus-sized and while I still have occasional concerns about the weight I “should” be, overall, I am happy with how I am. And with that in mind I wanted to highlight books that had plus-sized love interests in romance novels.

cover of Game of Hearts

Game of Hearts by Cathy Yardley

When Kyla is offered the chance of a lifetime that will help get her cosplay business off the ground, she’s ecstatic. That is until she is informed that she has to find a replacement to help in the auto shop she works at, which leads to her reaching out to her brother’s best friend, Jericho. When he shows up to help, he is taken aback at how grown up…and sexy…Kyla is now.

cover of their troublesome crush by xan west

Their Troublesome Crush by Xan West

When metamours Ernest and Nora start planning their shared partner’s birthday party, they’re surprised at the feelings of attraction that begin. Neither want to upset the balance of their relationship but neither can they ignore what they’re feeling.

Here are just some of the exciting romances headed our way in 2023.

And that’s all I have for y’all today! I will be back in your inboxes on Thursday and in the meantime you can find me floating around on Twitter. Until our paths cross again, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

“Moon” Romances and Baking Love

Hello and welcome back to the Kissing Books newsletter! We’re almost at the end of the ‘traditional’ work week and I am looking forward to the weekend. Last week seemed to drag on for me, likely due to it being a short work week. While I love three and four day weekends, it always makes the bookended work weeks seem even longer. Or maybe that’s just me.

In reading news, I finished Legends & Lattes and adored it. While I need to read one or two more in that genre to know for sure, I’m fairly confident that cozy fantasies are going to be a new favorite of mine. I also started Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute, which is the first book I bought for myself this year, and am enjoying it so far.

It’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of Good Girl tote bag

Good Girl Tote Bag by booksrbtrthanreality

Even though I am actively working on having more control over my book spending habits this year, I can never resist a good sturdy tote bag, especially one that makes me smirk as much as this one did. I would totally rock this is any bookstore in my town. $25

New Releases

cover of Lunar Love

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen

Soon after Olivia takes over her grandmother’s Chinese zodiac-based matchmaking business, a rival soon emerges who tries to simplify it as just ‘animal attraction’. Naturally she’s enraged and quickly butts heads with Bennett, said rival. When the two of them enter into a bet to set the other one up to determine who has the superior matchmaking skills, both soon find themselves at risks of losing their hearts to each other.

cover of Red Moon Rising

Red Moon Rising by Erzabet Bishop and Gina Kincade

Kate is very content with her knitting needles, romance novels, and a close circle of friends and workers at her yarn shop. However, when some of the other women start to go missing, she teams up with her detective ex, Devi, to find the killer before she becomes one of their latest victims.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Marzipan Day! Now, I’m not here to take sides one way or the other on how someone may feel about marzipan. Personally, I’m not a fan but I won’t yuck anyone’s yum. However it gave me the perfect opening to recommend some more baking romances cause y’all know I am all about the foodie romances, no matter what the cuisine of choice is. In honor of today, they will be baking romances. They also both have a reality show theme as a happy coincidence.

cover of A Sweet Mess

A Sweet Mess by Jayci Lee

Baker Aubrey’s one night stand turns out to be infamous food critic Landon who destroyed the reputation of her shop with one scathing viral review. Determined to help right this wrong, Landon offers her a spot on his celebrity baking show, an opportunity she takes with the mindset that she will stay closed off to him romantically. However, Landon is equally as determined to convince her to give him another chance at her heart.

cover of Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hall

Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hall

When single mom Rosaline lands a spot on a reality baking show, it seems the perfect chance to turn her life around and give her daughter the future she deserves. What she didn’t expect was to be caught between Alain and Harry, two drastically different men, and unsure which one to choose.

While not reality based, if you’re also looking for a sweet (get it?) baking romance, you can also pick up Queerly Beloved by Book Riot’s very own Susie Dumond.

Check out this interview with Talia Hibbert regarding her YA debut and passion for writing.

Yet another accurate-for-me-but-just-for-fun-quiz.

If you like romances that involve a wedding, here are some books to add to your TBR pile.

And if you’re more of a fan of what comes after the “I do’s, then here are some romances that may strike your interest.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I hope that this upcoming weekend is exactly what you need to recharge your batteries and get ready to face next week. I’ll be back in your inboxes Monday with more news from the world of romance and you can always find me floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Unexpected Trope Changes and Geeky Love

Happy Monday y’all! Welcome back to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN Hinton, your guide through the world of romance. Here we are at the beginning of a new year and, although there have been some interesting developments already, overall I think it started off…okay.

Mine was fairly decent at least. I spent most of the first recovering from too much champagne, although I did remember to eat my black-eyed peas and collard greens. The second was my anniversary, so we took our annual trip to The Cheesecake Factory and Barnes & Noble where I picked up a few books including Mistakes Were Made and The Violin Conspiracy. I haven’t started them yet since I’m still working my way through Back in a Spell, Legends & Lattes, and The Last Party as “free reads,” meaning they’re not being tracked on my spreadsheet or Goodreads.

Speaking of reading challenges, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our writers.

Bookish Goods

picture of reading keychain

I’d Rather Be Reading keychain by Meaggie Moos

This is an entire mood. In almost every single situation, I’d rather be reading, even if I get distracted by my phone whenever I get the opportunity of reading unencumbered. Oh well…such is life. This is priced at $9.

New Releases

cover of Exes and O's

Exes and O’s by Amy Lea

In an attempt to find the love of her life, romance novel reader Tara decides to revisit her exes in the hopes of finding a second-chance romance. She enlists the help of her roommate Trevor for this task, which he begrudgingly agrees to. As they spend more time together, they begin to look at each other in a different light and Tara wonders if maybe the “they were roommates” trope is actually the key to her HEA.

cover of Loves and Lattes

Loves and Lattes by Karis Walsh

Cat café owner Bonnie and wedding planner Taryn’s paths cross when one of the latter’s clients wants to host their nuptials in Bonnie’s establishment. Bonnie is reluctant at first until Taryn promises this will end in a mass adoption and new forever home for some of the felines. As the women work together to do just that, a relationship blooms between them that could prove to be so much more.

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

Riot Recommendations

Originally, the theme of today’s recommendations was going to be opposites attract. That is, until I realized how vast of a pool that is. It may not seem that way but it’s true. Even the ever popular grumpy/sunshine set up is just a more specific description of that type of match up.

Thinking of that got me to thinking about another one of the specific pairings I’ve always enjoyed under that umbrella: the geek or nerd and the jock pair up. Of course, in adult romances, it’s not always quite like that, as the geek part can be paired up with any other different personality trait. But they’re still fun. With that said, onto the recommendations!

cover of Joystick A Blerd Grrl Romance

Joystick: A Blerd Grrl Romance, Book 1 by Nikki Woolfolk

After life-long gamer and nerd Vivi’s reputation is shattered online, she returns home to recoup. There, she agrees to pose as her brother at his job while he recovers from a sickness. She plans to just go in and keep her head low until her brother is healed. Then she discovers that his boss is the handsome Oliver, a man she had just recently flirted with and things get a bit more complicated.

cover of Crazy for a Geek Girl

Crazy for a Geek Girl by Nicolette Dane

When a huge work project results in Netty having to contact her company’s IT department, she is left breathless when the beautiful Henry is the one to answer the call. After a passion-filled encounter, Netty is left wondering if this unexpected technology issue is going to be the catalyst for an even more unexpected romance.

And that’s all I have for you today. We’re back to our normal broadcasting schedule now which means I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday with another update. In the meantime, I can still be found floating around over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until we meet again, happy reading and stay hydrated!

PN Hinton

Categories
Kissing Books

Welcome to 2023, Romance Fans

Hello and welcome to the first Kissing Books newsletter of 2023! Its been a week since we last met and a whole new year happened in that time. I hope that you spent New Year’s Eve and Day the way you wanted. I’m speaking ‘from the past’ but I’m confident that no matter what, I made sure to eat my black-eyed peas and collard greens to start the year off right.

The start of a new year always feels like the first blank page of a journal. I have no idea what revelations, challenges, changes, or other developments will come out at the days/pages turned, but I also remind myself that a new one is the opportunity to do better.

One thing I’m going to do this year is be kinder to myself in all regards, especially in reading. I still plan on challenging myself and reading a set number of books in the coming year, but I will also not be worried about how long it takes me to finish any book or how many are on my “Currently Reading” list. At the end of the day, I’m my only competitor in these challenges. However, I am also going to be mindful of making sure my book intake and consumption is more balanced because wow does the price tag and TBR pile add up quickly.

And speaking of reading challenges, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of sleepy book kitty pin

Seepy Grey Book Cat by BiblioChicShop

I don’t know about y’all but after the chaos of last year, especially those last few busy weeks, I am identifying so hard with this sweet kitty. I would love to curl up and just sleep for like a week surrounded by books. But, since that isn’t an option, this pin that showcases what I’d rather be doing will suffice. $13

New Releases

cover of Mister Musician

Mister Musician by B. Love

When Saint and Harmony meet, both are fresh off break-ups where the person they loved betrayed them terribly. Neither are willing to open their hearts again, yet they find themselves being drawn to one another. Will this be a new chance for both of them or will the heartbreak of the past doom them before a new relationship can even start?

cover of Back in a Spell

Back in a Spell by Lana Harper

After essentially being left at the altar, Nineve Blackmoore reluctantly agrees to go on a date with nonbinary bar owner Marty. It goes about as well as can expected, especially when Marty finds out she’s part of the family that has been trying to buy the bar out from under him. After their date, when Marty begins to develop magical powers, something that typically only happens to non-magical people when they join a magical family, they two must work together to figure out what is going in and to discover more about the undeniable attraction between them.

cover of Loathe to Love You

Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood

In this collection of short stories, we are introduced to scientists Mara, Sadie, and Hannah who remain friends after they graduate. We also get to see them as they interact and fall in love with men who at first seem to be their rivals but end up being so much more. This is a collection of Hazelwood’s previously published novellas, Under One Roof, Stuck With You, and Below Zero.

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

Riot Recommendations

Over the last few weeks I have been really focusing on reading cozy stories because the end of the year was wild and I just needed a mental break. That was my goal and I’ve pretty much kept to it — well, with the exception of How to Sell a Haunted House which I am enjoying, but my goodness it has pushed almost every single one of my ‘things that squidge me out in horror’ buttons.

That said, two of the books that I read did align with the cozy aspect: Legends & Lattes and Loathe to Love You. It got me to thinking that some cozy, low-angst romance may be the perfect way to start off the new year. So, without further delay, here are the first recommendations for 2023.

cover of The Stand-In

The Stand-In by Lily Chu

When Gracie is mistaken by the paparazzi for a famous Chinese actress, Wei Fangli, the latter offers her a job as her stand-in for an extraordinary amount of money. Not in a position to refuse, Gracie takes the job, and suddenly finds herself in the limelight with the handsome and equally infuriating Sam. However, as they spend more time together, her heart softens towards the man, leaving her in a position where she could end up losing everything.

cover of Nothing to Lose

Nothing to Lose by Clare Lydon

When an unexpected flood leaves grumpy Scarlet and other people homeless, bubbly Mayor Joy opens up her home to the unhoused and ends up with Scarlet as her housemate. Despite their differences the two strike up a friendship that could be more. But will it be enough to last when Scarlet is able to return to her home?

Here are some of the romances headed our way this winter.

And that’s all for today my friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh new edition full of new releases in romance and recommendations. In the meantime, I can still be found over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Categories
Kissing Books

Surprise Hits, Warm Socks, and Highlander Love

Hello again and welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter! It’s been a week since we last spoke. Regardless of if you celebrated or observed any of the holidays, I hope that this past week wasn’t an overly stressful one for you.

This is always an interesting time of the year since we’re so close to the new year. I think a majority of us, based on how the last two years have gone, are understandably gun shy about vocalizing high hopes for 2023. However, it is also worth noting that you’ve only truly lost at something when you’ve completely given up hope. And, as small of a kernel as it may be, I still have some. I hope that, whatever challenges you’re facing or will be facing, that thought process helps you as well.

It’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of Book Socks

If You Can Read This, Please Bring Me a Book socks by WineALittleGifts

After the hustle and bustle of family time, I’m sure we all feel this deep within our souls. Plus who doesn’t love a good pair for socks? I know that I have really begin to appreciate and collect socks in the last few years, which is funny since as a child I loathed wearing them. These come in five colors. $17+

New Releases

cover of Never Cross a Highlander

Never Cross a Highlander by Lisa Rayne

Ailsa’s plans to escape enslavement are shattered at the arrival of Kallum, the infamous Dubh Mahoun or Black Devil. Unbeknownst to her and everyone else, Kallum uses this fearsome persona as a front to help free enslaved people. His secret identity is at risk of being exposed unless he accompanies Ailsa home. Which would be easier if she weren’t fighting him every step of the way and if there wasn’t an attraction brewing between them.

cover of The Bookstore's Secret

The Bookstore’s Secret by Makenna Lee

Nicole takes a job in the café at a local bookstore to help pass the time while waiting to hear about another job opportunity. Unbeknownst to her is that her boss is none other than her first crush, Liam. And, despite his avoidance of small town gossip and being set up, single dad Liam is finding himself very attracted to the widowed Nicole. Will he take a chance on romance again or continue to keep his walls up?

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

Riot Recommendations

The two last recommendations I have for y’all this year are still some of my best of 2022, but these are the ones that surprised me with exactly how much I enjoyed them.

Now, I never go into a book expecting to hate it. Because honestly, if that was the case, I wouldn’t bother starting it. Worst case, I expect to not love it or just feel “meh” about it. But, having been let down in the past by highly anticipated or hyped books, I do temper my expectations to just enjoying the book and not regretting the hours spent reading it.

Following that train of thought, it stands to reason that there are some books that blow me away with how much I enjoyed them. I love those because then I can truly gush about a book when recommending it. And that’s why my recommendations today are two of of the books that pleasantly surprised me with how much I enjoyed them and why.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches cover

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

Based on the elevator pitch for this one, I was expecting to at least moderately enjoy it. I didn’t expect to fall in love with everyone in this book — with the exception of the solicitor, of course — in a unique way. Found family is a big draw in a lot of genres, and it really shows here, as we get to watch Mika finally find a place and people who accept her for what she is and don’t have any nasty ulterior motives to keeping her in their lives. If you haven’t picked it up yet, be sure to do it soon, because it is amazing.

cover ofTwo Wrongs Make a Right

Two Wrongs Make a Right by Chloe Liese

I enjoyed this for multiple reasons. First, that it took a not quite as popular Shakespeare play and managed to update it quite nicely. Second, the couple in the book zodiac signs matched my spouse and I, even if he’s not a typical Capricorn. And third…it was just that good. I loved the banter and the slow burn between Jamie and Bea and how they eventually fell into love. It’s a great story and it leaves openings for at least two other books.

And that’s all for today. Again, it will be another week before you hear from me, due to the holiday observance on January 2nd. But after that, it will be back to two sends a week! In the meantime you can find my floating over on Twitter under @PScribe801. See y’all in the new year!

Categories
Kissing Books

All the Christmas Reads!!!

Season Greetings, romance lovers! We’re only three sleeps away from Christmas and, even with my Grinch-like tendencies, I have to admit I’m a little excited. I’m one who gets joy from watching others open gifts I picked out for them, so I am really looking forward to that.

Speaking of Christmas, I wanted to give a heads up that there will not be a newsletter on the 26th or January 2nd. There will be one on the 29th and the January 5th but the other two days are when Book Riot is observing the associated holiday. After that though, it will be back to hearing from me twice a week.

Also, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! We’re going on nine years for this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletter tailored for each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our well-known Rioters.

Bookish Goods

picture of Books Make You Bright Sweatshirt

Books Make You Bright Sweatshirt by USACustomTee

Not only is this true, but it is also festive which makes it a win/win in my book. Now, I don’t get a lot of sweatshirt weather out in my neck of the woods but still this may be something to keep away for when it does happen. This comes in eleven colors and the prices start at $25.

New Releases

cover of Baby It's Snow Outside

Baby, It’s Snow Outside by Shani Greene-Dowdell

When his sick grandmother refuses to see any doctor other than hers, Ishmael decides he has no choice but to go to Dr. Miracle’s house for help. It’s attraction at first sight for both of them and neither can deny it. Will these two lonely hearts find true love or will their affair end before the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve?

cover of Set the Record Straight

Set the Record Straight by Hannah Bonam-Young

When life-long friends Clara and Evan both find themselves in a situation where they need a fake girlfriend, they decide to fill that role for each other. However, as the fake dating commences, Clara begins to develop romantic feelings for her friend, leaving her to wonder if there is an undiscovered and unexplored side of herself. And Evan, who has had a secret crush on her friend for a while, worries she that she may have made a mistake playacting at something that she really wants.

Please note that this book contains mention of homophobia, religious oppression, and intolerance from family members.

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

Riot Recommendations

With Christmas a few days away, I decided that today’s recommendations would be Christmas romances. I know we’re just a few days away from the holiday and hopefully these will be a nice way to relax in the coming days. And they’re both relatively short, so they should make for quick reading.

cover of Dawn With a Duke

Dawn with a Duke by Erica Ridley

After Belle’s chaperone falls ill on the way to a party, she must assume the role of a widow in order to protect her reputation as the daughter of a duke. And she decides that a little harmless flirtation with the handsome Calvin wouldn’t hurt. When they find themselves snowbound though, and real identities are discovered, both are left wondering what will happen when the snow melts away?

cover of the The Mistletoe Motive

The Mistletoe Motive by Chloe Liese *

Gabriella and Jonathan are co-workers who can’t stand each other. When they find out that the independent bookstore they work at is having money issues, they worry that means one of them will be laid off. A bet is made that whoever has the least sales in December will voluntarily resign and the competition is off. However, as the months progresses, Gabby begins to see a softer side of Jonathan and wonders if there is more to him than meets the eye.

*I’ve linked the paperback version of this book. The ebook version of this title is a Kobo exclusive and can be purchased here.

And that’s all for today y’all. Remember, it will be one week before you get another newsletter from me since there won’t be one sent on the 26th. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah, any other holiday or not at all, I hope that the next week is awesome for you. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.
— PN Hinton