Category: Kissing Books

Christmas Cups and Sapphic Recs!!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 16, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, and I’ll be your guide through the rollercoaster world of romance. I hope that your weekend was great. My Book Club had our annual Book-mas party and, as always, it was a great time. We always have too much food, so no one leaves hungry, which is always a good sign!

It’s also Winter Break for the Teenager which is awesome. He has some much needed dental work scheduled for Wednesday, which is less than for sure. Since he has a history of anxiety with dental work, he is going under anesthesia. He’s been under before but this is the first time he will likely remember it. So, if you could send some well wishes towards my not-quite-so-little-anymore-guy, I’d appreciate it.

Guess what y’all? It’s time for the 2023 Read Harder Challenge! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done this challenge and we love that we’re still able to help you push your reading limits! Click here to sign up to receive newsletters tailored to each prompt and recommendations for books to tackle all 24 tasks from some of our writers.

Bookish Goods

All I Want for Christmas is Smut Tumbler by EdgyPhoenixDesignz

I’ll be honest, I don’t enjoy the earworm that gets stuck in my head, as I do not love that song. But I do love this cup and how honest it is. Plus, it’s festive and upfront about one’s love of smut, two things that I appreciate. If you’re wanting to add this to your reusable cup collection, cause let’s be honest we all have at least five, it can be yours for just $25

New Releases

A Betrayed Kind of Love by Adesuwa O’man Nwokedi

Alero and Bonjua were high school sweethearts that seemed destined to stay together forever. That is until their relationship crumbles, leaving Alero’s reputation and heart shattered. When the opportunity to get revenge on him comes at their 20-year high school reunion, she is determined to take it. But they will soon both discover why they say that the line between love and hate is thin.

My Holiday Love by Reba Bale

When Ashley finds herself in sudden and desperate need of a new roommate, she takes a chance on Hannah, the new barista at the local coffee shop. Even though they’re as different as night and day, the two hit it off and end up spending Christmas together at home. This leads to an eggnog infused kiss and leaves both women wondering do they want to be just roommates or more?

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

Riot Recommendations

I really gravitated towards Sapphic romances a lot this year. A good number of the romances I read were ones where one or both of the romantic parties involved identified as something other than straight, which still makes them a non-heterosexual couple. Because, as we all know, even if someone is in a “straight passing” relationship, they are in no way any less queer. But by far the WLW books took the cake.

That leads to today’s recommendations: some of my favorite WLW books that were published and that I read this year. Rather than give a synopsis, I’m going to say what made these books stand out to me after a year of reading.

D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding by Chencia C. Higgings

I know I recommended this earlier this year, but it’s worthy of being recommended all the time. I loved this book and devoured it because I felt that D’Vaughn and Kris balanced each other well. I loved watching them fall in love with each other.

The Romance Recipe by Ruby Barrett

Amy and Sophie made me swoon in more ways than one. Their chemistry practically sizzled off the page and the way they stuck up for each other, even when they were mad at each other, warmed my heart. Just wonderful!

Calling the Shots by Kelly Farmer

Okay, so this one may seem like cheating since it was just released, but I stand by it. While I enjoyed all the books in the Out on the Ice series, this was my favorite, likely because I saw a lot of myself in Tierney. I enjoyed seeing her and Regan go toe-to-toe on everything, all the while falling in love.

And here are some exciting LGBTQ+ books headed our way in the new year!

That’s all for today, but don’t worry. Thursday will bring a fresh newsletter to your inbox. And, if you want to see snippets of me before then, I can be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated!

Kissing Books

Holiday and Foodie Romances!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 14, 2022

Sponsored by

Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter! We’re almost at the end of the work week, halfway through the month of December, and 10 days from Christmas. That still blows my mind. That said, I hope that you’ve gotten most, if not all, your shopping done. I tend to be fairly frugal even at this time of year, especially since my spouse and son have their birthdays in January and February respectively. So, I don’t want to buy all the awesome stuff now.

I’m still working my way through Kiss Her Once For Me. On the complete opposite side of the spectrum, I started How To Sell a Haunted House because why not? After those two I think I’m going to wind down from recording what I’m reading so I can start 2023 fresh.

And speaking of 2023, it’s time for the Read Harder Challenge! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done 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

Booklovers Ornament by salvagemevintage

We put up our tree this last weekend (early for us!) which is why this cute little ornament is getting a light shone on it today. Putting it up is important to the Teenager and I don’t know how much longer that will last. So, I still endeavor to do it every year with a smile on my face. Whether or not you’re in the same boat, this is a great way to display your love for reading. Price is set at either $13 or $18, depending on whether or not you want it personalized.

New Releases

A Little Holiday Spirit by Lesandra Moore

Fresh off a breakup, Spirit is not looking forward to the holidays with her family. So, she decides to take her roommate up on an offer to go home with her instead and celebrate with her family. What she doesn’t know is that she will be sharing a room with a complete, albeit handsome, stranger.

I Saw Mommy Kissing the Nanny by Shannon O’Connor

When grad student Morgan goes to her job interview as a temporary nanny, she is shocked to discover that the mother is no other than Lucy, her latest one night stand. While both women initially agree to have a professional relationship only, real feelings begin to develop. As the countdown to Christmas starts, will both women overcome their own insecurities and take a chance on love as a Christmas gift?

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

Riot Recommendations

Earlier this year I wrote about the sudden boom of ‘apron tuggers‘ in romance novels in recent years. This was especially noticeably this year, both in what was being published and, on a personal note, what I read. Since we’re winding down to the end of 2022, I figured now would be a good time to recommend some romances in this category, two of which I read and one that is on my never-ending TBR pile.

Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly

Dahlia is recently divorced and looking to reinvent herself. London is looking to prove themselves to their father and everyone else who questions their identity. The sparks immediately fly when they meet on the set of a reality baking competition but as with all competitions, there can only be one winner. I adored this novel and everything about it. And, as an added bonus, this was my first five star read of this year.

Chef’s Kiss by TJ Alexander

Simone loves her job at The Discerning Chef and the lack of waves she has to deal with. All this changes with the new kitchen manager Ray, who turns out to be the sunshine to her grumpiness. Still, she finds herself softening towards Ray the more they work together. When she finds out how close-minded her job is when Ray comes out as nonbinary, she is left wondering exactly how important the job is to her, especially since it involves someone who has managed to work their way into her heart. This was a sweet, slow burn that I feel didn’t got as much love as it should have this last year and I aim to change that.

Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau

Ryan is an actor who is on a break and looking to bond with his dad after his mother’s death. Lindsay is a baker and Ryan’s somewhat unwilling partner for the celebrity edition of reality show Baking Fail. As the two work together, they bond in multiple ways and begin to develop romantic feelings for one another. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; I’ve never really been disappointed with one of Lau’s books. I’m really looking forward to reading this one.

Here is one romance reader’s top 35 of 2022.

If you’ve been yearning for more queer fantasy romance, then this list may have a few good recommendations for you.

Here is a round-up of some of the winter romances here or headed our way soon.

And here are some more holiday romances to pick up this season!

That’s all I have for y’all today and this week friends. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with more updates for y’all and, if you need a litlte more of me in the meantime, I can be found floating around on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Gingerbread Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 9, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN Hinton, here with more updates, some new releases, and recommendations for you. I hope that your weekend was everything you wanted and needed it to be.

I’m feeling especially festive today since my copy of Kiss Her Once For Me finally came in! I’ll admit that ever since I heard that Allison Cochrun based Jack on Bill Pullman’s character in While Your Were Sleeping on this episode of the Virtual book Tour podcast, I’ve been even more interested in this book. Hopefully, it will help with the holiday humdrums ’cause I’m still dealing with that.

I am also still reading The Rewind and I have aspirations to finish The Starless Sea before my book club’s Book-mas this Saturday. Wish me luck!

It’s time for Read Harder 2023! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done 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

My Holidays Are All Booked Candle by BookedCandles

The image on this candle is adorable and this is a motto I’m sure that we all would like to adopt. I would much rather spend the majority of the holidays reading and relaxing. And with the combined smell of pine, cypress, Tonka beans, and eucalyptus, this is perfect for lighting while reading by the fire, electric or otherwise. Priced at $23.

New Releases

In It To Win It by Sharon C. Cooper

When former lovers Morgan and Drake meet while bidding on the same property, the sparks fly immediately. But it’s more from the animosity Drake has towards Morgan, who ghosted him years ago, rather than the still-there attraction. However, as they compete to bid on the property, one of the stipulations from the somewhat eccentric buyer, they both realize that neither is the same as they once were and wonder if this is a second chance for romance as well as a real estate opportunity.

Kink the Halls by Ali Williams

Riley is, to say the least, surprised when Wendy, her ex-girlfriend’s recently divorced mom, walks into her kink club looking for a Domme. As the night progresses, Riley slowly begins to realize that she wants to be that person to bring Wendy to her knees and sets out to do so.
CW/TW should be available on the author’s page/note at time of release.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is Gingerbread House Day! I know that building one of these is a well-loved holiday tradition for many people. And, while I personally don’t love the taste of gingerbread, I love the smell of any kind of baking and seeing how creative some designers are with what they make.

Since these are staples of the holiday, it goes without saying that there is a plethora of holiday romance books and movies that strongly feature these edible domiciles or even just the cookie version. Hence the theme for today’s recommendations! Enjoy curling up with one of these with the aforementioned cookie or your preferred holiday confection.

A Gingerbread Romance by Lacey Baker

After Taylor’s temperamental business partner backs out of a contest to build a life-sized gingerbread house, she turns to single dad and baker Adam for help. He agrees, knowing it would be great for his business. The more time they spend together, the more they find that they are enjoying each other’s company and wonder if will also be the season of love for them.

Most Wonderful by Bryce Oakley

Emilia is not a huge fan of Christmas and would much prefer to focus her time on running her indie bookstore. Cody loves all things holiday related, especially baking in her uncle’s shop. When their paths cross, Cody is determined to turn Emilia’s view on the holiday around. Will she succeed or will their different approaches to the holidays and life end their story before it really begins?

Gingerbread House of Lies by Shyla Colt

Tired of the constant matchmaking attempts, friends December and Emmanuel concoct a fake dating scheme to get their loved ones off their backs. They plan on doing the big reveal at the annual gingerbread contest. However, play acting reveals real feelings, which may end up being the perfect recipe for a holiday happily ever after.

If you’re still yearning for some holiday reads, check out these eight books.

Or, if none of those strike your fancy, then here is another list of books you might enjoy. No worries, there are no overlap or repeats. I checked!

This is super sweet and I just had to share since I felt all the feelings when watching it.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on in your inboxes Monday with a fresh newsletter. If you need or want more of me in the meantime, you can always give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. As an aside, I don’t auto-follow back, but it is a good way to see what I’m up two during the in-betweens. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Once Upon a Different Time

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 7, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN, back in your inbox with more romance updates and hopefully some bursts of serotonin to help get you through your day and/or week. I got a big boost of serotonin last weekend with a hair appointment that resulted in awesome new hair, which is always a good feeling.

While I haven’t started a holiday read yet (still holding out for my BOTM box to come in), the holiday movie intake has begun. So far, it’s been the live action How the Grinch Stole Christmas, bits and pieces of Elf (sine I’m not a huge fan overall), Home Alone, and Gremlins. Yes Gremlins is a Christmas movie. I have this fight every year with my spouse and it is a hill I will die on.

Also, it’s time for Read Harder 2023! This is the ninth year Book Riot has done 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 Ho Ho Ho Romance Book Sweatshirt

Ho Ho Ho Romance Book Sweatshirt by booksrbtrthanreality

This actually made me laugh out loud when I saw it and so I knew it was perfect to boost as a bookish good. It’s perfect for this season and looks comfy as all get out, which means it’s perfect for curling up next to the fire and reading the night away. This comes in three colors and six size options and is priced at $35.

New Releases

Christmas Candy by Darie McCoy

Tired of being the butt of her family’s jokes, Candace ‘Candy’ decides to enroll in a cooking class to enhance her culinary skills. When she walks in and discovers that longtime family friend Kenneth is the instructor, she almost walks right back out. Kenneth on the other hand is excited to both help Candy learn more about the art of cooking and the opportunity to get to know the curvy beauty even more.

Witcha Gonna Do? by Avery Flynn

In this witchy romance, it’s distaste at first sight for the magic-less Tilda and full-of-magic Gil. But somehow they keep getting set up on blind dates. Three to be exact. And although the animosity is real, so is the undeniable and mutual attraction. When Tilda inadvertently freezes her entire family, she has to swallow her pride to ask Gil for help to break the spell before the news breaks out and her powerful family’s powerful enemies try to take advantage of their vulnerable state.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is ‘Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day.’ Now, while the premise sounds prank-related, it did give me the idea of a time travel romance theme, a fairly popular trope in romance.

I’ve read a few of these and do enjoy them. But personally, it’s highly unlikely I would be happy to find myself in the past. While the present time isn’t exactly what one would call kind to a woman who fits my particular demographic, it’s somewhat better than anything in the past.

That aside, time travel is still something that people enjoy reading about and it can be fun. So, without further ado, here are some time travel romances for your consideration.

The Portrait by B.D. Anderson

When she gets dragged by her mother to yet another estate sale, Marleigh is surprised at how drawn she is to a portrait of a British soldier and ends up buying it. When she gets it home, she finds the reason it is so life-like is because the subject of the painting, Winston, was trapped in it by a witch. As Marleigh works to break him free of the curse, the attraction between them builds — but is it for real or just an effect of the spell?

The Time Slip Girl by Elizabeth Andre

While visiting London, computer programmer Dara steps through the door of a shop and finds herself in 1908. Shop girl Agnes graciously gives her a place to stay while she adjusts to her new surroundings. Neither woman can deny the attraction they feel for one another but, in addition to all the prejudices that the two woman would face as an interracial couple in that time is the looming fear of Dara being pulled back to her time with little to no warning.

Pick some food and get your soulmate’s initial.

The Washington Post released their selections of funny romance novels from 2022.

Entertainment Weekly recommends these holiday romances.

If you ever wondered how Julia Quinn reacted to the end of the first season of Bridgerton, well now you know.

And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Monday though so it won’t be too long until you hear from me again. In the meantime, you can find me posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Accidental Marriages and Festive Foxes

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date December 2, 2022

Sponsored by

Salutations to you all! Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN and I’ll be your guide through the rollercoaster world of romance. Because believe me when I say that there’s rarely ever a dull moment here.

As mentioned last time, I’ve decided to embrace the season in an attempt to not be grumpy. I added my “get jolly” mix to my daily music rotation. I’ve started watching the movies and shows that are streaming everywhere. I ordered some white chocolate peppermint bark coffee that should be getting here soon. And I’m eagerly waiting for my copy of Kiss Her Once for Me to come in so I can get started on that one. Look at me in all my merriment!

In other reading news, I finished Calling the Shots and adored it. While I loved and recommend the entire series overall, this is undoubtedly my favorite out of the three. I felt such a kinship with Tierney that just made it resonate more with me. I also started reading The Rewind, a second chance romance that is perfect for this time of year since it starts on New Year’s Eve.

Bookish Goods

Festive Fox Book Sleeve by CPickeringCo

Okay, this is just flat out adorable. Look at this cute little holiday fox in his antlers and hat! I love everything about this book sleeve which, honestly, I would use any day of the year. The price for this sleeve ranges from $14 to $27, depending on size.

New Releases

A Dash of Salt and Pepper by Kosoko Jackson

Prep chef Xavier is currently having a rough time at life. These challenges landed him back in Harper’s Cove and working at hip new restaurant, The Wharf. Logan, head chef and owner of the establishment, doesn’t appreciate Xavier’s acidic nature and attitude but also knows that when it comes to help, he can’t afford to be choosy. As the two men work closely together, more than just the kitchen heats up, leaving them to wonder what comes next for both of them.

Five Kisses at Midnight by Abby Crofton

Life in Hawaii seems like a dream come true for Bell. That is, until she gets stuck in a time loop and starts repeating New Year’s Eve over and over again. The only person who believes she is stuck in this loop is surfer Lola who is there over and over again, ready to help break this repeating day. As they learn more about each other, Bell becomes more determined than ever to break this curse and finally start the new year, hopefully with Lola by her side.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’m not very far into The Rewind, so I don’t yet know the circumstances of how these ex-lovers got accidentally married. However, it did get me to thinking about that specific trope and how it kind of goes hand in hand with marriage of convenience.

Think about it; if you wake up accidentally married because you were under the influence of something, then you can get it purposefully annulled the next day, or at least get the process started for it. So, when the couple chooses to stay married, it is usually for one reason or another.

With that thought process running through my head, I decided to do another round of marriages of conveniences. The set up isn’t exactly like it is in the aforementioned book, but the unexpected marriage aspect is still present in both.

Waking Up Married by Reese Ryan

When lifelong friends Zora and Dallas wake up married after a night in Vegas, the initial plan is to quietly get the marriage annulled. However, they forgot that they were high profile people which means their nuptials go viral very quickly. Not wanting to admit to their family that it was all a mistake, they decide to stay married and end up realizing this was the best mistake of their lives.

Accidental Honeymoon by Miranda MacLeod

Monica and Ray have a chance to inherit a rural New England vineyard and a lot of cash, provided they get married. The only snag? They can’t stand one another. However, this is one of those “the ends will justify the means” situations so they try to make the best of it. As they work to plan a very real wedding for their very fake relationship, the tension builds between them and they wonder if this is actually the prefect opportunity for love.

And that’s all I have for you this fine Monday morning. I hope that the rest of the day treats you well. And if there are/were hiccups and challenges, I hope that they are easily surmountable. Make sure to take time for yourself in this busy season and do one thing that brings you joy each day. I’ll be back on Thursday with another edition and in the meantime I can be found over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

Holiday Romance Shirts and Snowed In Romances

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 30, 2022

Sponsored by

Welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s the first day of December, y’all and the last month of 2022. We’re almost there.

Now, I typically wait until the day after Turkey Day to consume anything holiday related. But this year I decided to wait until December officially started. The first movie I’m planning on watching is Writing Around the Christmas Tree. Now, we all know what they say about best laid plans so we’ll see what the future brings. If I do though, I’ll be sure to update on what I thought next time.

In things currently bringing me joy, I picked up a copy of Legends & Lattes from one of my local indie stores. I was also pleased that I correctly guessed the BOTM clue and that one of the picks this month would be Kiss Her Once For Me, which y’all know was the one I picked for even more holiday reading. And even factoring in those two purchases, as well as the copy of Delilah Green Doesn’t Care I recently treated myself to, I am still at my goal of reading half of the books I bought this year.

And I’m making a promise: no more (purchased) books for the rest of the year. Gifts and ARCs are a whole different story.

And on that note, onto the rest of the newsletter!

Bookish Goods

Small Town Christmas Trope Tarot Card T-shirt by lylajuneco

Of course this was going to be the bookish good to start December off with. I know that these small town Christmas movies are all the rage in July and December. And, if we’re being honest, we all know one person who watches these movies all year-round. Whatever the case is for you or your loved ones, this is just the perfect thing to watch for all your holiday movie viewings. Priced at $25.

New Releases

The Naughty Chocolatier by Ana’Gia Wright

Celestial is recently divorced and looking for love. Ellis is a handsome restaurant owner who is trying to get a handle on the business he just inherited. After he saves her from a terrible arranged date, their paths continue to cross. This leads them both to wonder if destiny is about to open a new chapter for both of them.

Ghosted Christmas Past by Bryce Oakley

When nanny Merritt and private chef Dylan’s paths cross a year after the latter ghosted the former, on Christmas day no less, there is a little bit of tension in the air. This gets a bit tighter when Merritt finds out they’re sharing a room while working at a holiday house in the Rockies. And when Dylan says she wants to give them a second chance, Merritt nearly explodes. This is part of an entire collection of nine novellas that all get released today, so if this one isn’t calling to you, there are eight other holiday filled options to choose from!

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

Riot Recommendations

This season is also the time of the year that the desire for snowed in romances goes up. I know that I’ve talked about this before, but that was last year. And I have yet to do it this year and it also fits in with the overall theme of this edition.

So yay time for snowed in romances!! And no worries; I made sure there were no repeats from my previous list.

Redemption by Kenya Wright

On the run from her abusive husband for three years, Kenya and her three kids find themselves snowbound at Yoshiro’s house. After the mafia murdered his family, Yoshiro left his life of crime, retreating to solitude for five years. Understandably, both of them have walls around them, but the close quarters and an undeniable attraction work to break them down, leaving them to wonder if they should both take this opportunity for a second chance family.

cover of A Christmas Gone Perfectly Wrong

A Christmas Gone Perfectly Wrong by Cecilia Grant

When Andrew is asked to drive Lucy to a house party, it is just another addition to the long list of tasks that have been bestowed on him. While he’s understandably grumpy about it, Lucy is overjoyed at the opportunity to break away from her mundane life. However a carriage mishap seems to forecast a scandal rather than a happy holiday, leaving a stoic man and carefree woman to wonder if love will help to make the best of this situation.

Pick some books and get a romcom to watch.

If you’re looking for some holiday romances to curl up with this month, here is a decent list of some options.

Guess the romantic movie by a random quote.

Fake dating romances!

And that is all I have for y’all this fine Thursday. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh edition. In the meanwhile I can be found floating around Twitter under @PScribe801. Until next time, happy reading and stay warm and hydrated.

Kissing Books

New Releases and Authors You Should Read Before 2023

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 25, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. It’s me, PN, back on this lovely Monday morning. I hope that your weekend was wonderful and, if you were like me and had a four-day one, you got plenty of rest and reading done.

I know I enjoyed my extra time off, if for no other reason than a mental break, because it has been hectic. One thing I know I need to work on next year is making sure to take more time off for that reason, even if all I am doing is staying at home. Breaks are important, y’all. This is something I tell everyone in my life and it’s time for me to apply it to myself. You heard it here first; that is one of my resolutions for next year.

In reading news, I finished The Kiss Curse and loved it as much as The Ex Hex. I cannot wait to see what the next book has in store for us. I also started Calling the Shots, which I am adoring as I have Kelly Farmer’s other books.

Bookish Goods

Book Rescuer T-Shirt by IkersonLTD

I need this shirt so I can point empathically to it every time I walk in from any bookstore with a huge bag of books and get the “What the heck” look from my partner. It comes in 12 colors and prices range from $13-24.

New Releases

A Valentine for Christmas by Reese Ryan

After he saves her life not once, but twice, Chandra agrees to act as Julian’s fake girlfriend. She’s determined to keep it just pretend though, believing that the doctor is too young for her. But he is equally as determined to show her that the differences in their ages don’t matter, especially when it comes to affairs of the heart.

Unlikely Match by Alexa Woods

When Poppy is matched with social coach Odessa through the TwinSoul app, the date starts off promising but ends in disaster. After Odessa reaches out, Poppy decides to hire her and Odessa reluctantly agrees, knowing that she would never cross that line with a client, no matter how tempting it is. However, as they work together, Poppy gains the confidence to tell Odessa how she feels, and Odessa wonders if she may end up breaking that rule for all the right reasons.

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

Riot Recommendations

I mentioned last week that we’re going to start seeing a lot of the “Best of 2022” lists floating around because of the time of the year. It is equally as true that we will start seeing the most anticipated books of 2023. I have quite a few myself because, well, of course I do!

Which leads to today’s recommendations: books that you should read before the authors release another book in 2023. Not only just to support them, but to get all caught up in case there is a continuing storyline. With that said, on to the books.

Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell by Taj McCoy

2023 release: Zora Books Her Happily Ever After

After the fissures that Savvy has been ignoring in her life begin to fully crack open, she decides it is time for a change and starts by renovating the kitchen in the house she inherited from her grandma. This life change starts off rough when the handsome contractor she hires is also someone that she recently offended, which she has to make amends for. As she moves through her new lifestyle, she realizes that she also has to work on improving her self confidence as well so she can feel as good as she looks.

From Bad to Cursed by Lana Harper

2023 release: Back in a Spell

When it appears that this year’s Beltane Festival will be threatened by sinister dark forces, rivals Isidora and Rowan team up to find out who is behind it. Despite their animosity, there is also an intense attraction between the two and as they work together, it becomes harder to ignore. As a heads up, I highly recommend reading Payback’s a Witch first since a plot element from that one plays heavily in this one.

Check out The Ripped Bodice’s new display!!!

If you’re looking for some Hanukkah romances, this list has you covered.

Happy Turkey Day Y’all!!!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 23, 2022

Sponsored by

First and foremost, I was heartbroken at the news regarding the mass shooting at Club Queue on Transgender Awareness Day. My thoughts are with the loved ones of the victims of this senseless and horrific tragedy.

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter. PN here, ready to fill you in on more goings on in the romance world as well as give you some recommendations. I hope that wherever you are and whatever you do, that you get to spend today however you want it.

That said, I have to admit that it’s been difficult for me to refer to today as Thanksgiving for a while. The biggest reason, apart from the sobering reality that we were lied to as children about the first one, is due to what tomorrow is. You know what I mean. Black Friday. It just doesn’t sit well with me that on the day after the one where we’re supposed to be thankful for all we have, people throw down over electronics that they don’t really need. Hence why I prefer the term Turkey Day, even though I’m not actually a huge fan of turkey in general.

Enough postulating. Let me get down off my soap box and get to the rest of the newsletter.

Bookish Goods

Death by TBR Glass Can by LadyishCreative

Yet another cup that speaks directly to my soul ’cause if this isn’t the motto of my bookish life, I don’t know what is. Honestly though it is cute and perfect for drinking from while one attempts to tackle their TBR pile. $18+

New Releases

Three Kings by Freydis Moon

Ethan is happy with his life as the local witch, lighthouse keeper and husband to sea captain Peter. After Peter returns from the sea with selkie Nico, things begin to change in their relationship leaving Ethan to wonder how all the chips will fall and where that will leave his marriage. However, the three men realize that not all changes are for the worst and sometimes they can be just what was needed.

Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail by Ashley Herring Blake

In this sequel to last year’s Delilah Green Doesn’t Care, we follow Astrid as she follows her dream of becoming an interior decorator one year after leaving her fiancé. When she’s given the opportunity to renovate the Everwood Inn for a hit reality show, she’s overjoyed. That is until she keeps having run-ins with the owner’s granddaughter and lead carpenter, who is determined to block every modern update Astrid wants to do. As the two women continue to bump heads, the tension between them builds until they’re forced to reconcile with the fact that it’s more attraction than animosity.

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

Riot Recommendations

As I promised on Monday, today’s recommendations are going to be novellas. This is just in case you’re doing a lot of socializing today, but also still want or need those reading breaks. I also included a lot of romance-related articles as well, both for more quick reading and to add more books to your TBR. Enjoy!

The Governess Affair by Courtney Milan

In this opening novella to the popular Brothers Sinister series, we meet Hugo, the right-hand man of a terrible duke. His latest assignment is to get rid of the governess Serena, who is equally as determined to make sure she gets compensation for all she suffered when she was in the duke’s employment. As the two continue to butt heads, they discover that they’re starting to feel more than animosity for each other. TW for references to off-the-page sexual assault.

Beauty and the Blacksmith by Tessa Dare

Here we return to Spindle Cove, where we meet local woman Diana, whose mother is determined that she make a wealthy match. However, Diana only has eyes for local blacksmith Aaron who isn’t exactly unaffected by the blonde beauty. Despite the differences in their statuses, the two are drawn together leaving them to wonder if there is a chance at a happily ever after for them.

One reader discusses how reading romance novels helped her to cope with the world at large.

If you’re like me and you wait until the day after Turkey Day to start your holiday romance reading, here is a great list to choose from.

This one is for my ‘off-the-page’ readers.

And, if you’re more of the ‘on-the-page’ reader, then this list has you covered.

EW rounds up their seven best romance novels for fall.

The Washington Post put out their top 10 romances of 2022.

And here are the top romances according to BookPage.

Yes, it’s that time already so expect to see more of these in the coming weeks.

And lastly, another eerily accurate-for-me quiz.

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

Kissing Books

Fake Dating but With Revenge!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 18, 2022

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Hello and happy Monday! I know that I say this every time but seeing as today is World Hello Day, I wanted to be sure that I greeted y’all with that specific salutation.

It’s Thanksgiving Week, which for us means the Teenager has the whole week off. You would think that means he would be sleeping in but he actually still gets up relatively early even on days off and weekends. While that will be great for him when he gets older, it’s more challenging when you’re used to quiet in the morning while working from home. And he’s got a lot of energy, so quiet he is not. I know these problems aren’t huge in the grand scheme of things so I’ll stop bemoaning them and just be happy my son is getting a mental break from school.

As for me, I found out that I actually ended up with Thursday and Friday off from the day job, which was a nice surprise. Don’t get me wrong; extra money is also nice, but I’m using this as a sign from the universe that I need to take a break and recalibrate myself. And of course catch up on my reading.

Bookish Goods

Unholy Stickers by LunarEndlessDesigns

I know there has been a fair amount of division on this song, especially after we were teased with it for so long. Personally, I think it’s a bop and I have been playing the hell out of it. And I love all the different spins that people have put on it, including this one right here. If you’re feeling the same way, then this sticker is perfect for you and, priced at only $4, is quite a bargain.

New Releases

Two Wrongs Make a Right by Chloe Liese

I am so glad that this book is finally out in the world, because I absolutely adored it. It’s all about Jamie and Bea and their well-meaning but massively overstepping friends’ attempts at matchmaking. Deciding that revenge is the best response, they pretend to fall in love and date, and plan to have a huge, dramatic breakup designed to make their friends feel guilty for their sneakiness. However, the more they pretend, the more they find that their friends may have been right and that they may actually be perfect for each other.

cover of Where There is Smoke, There is Fire

Where There is Smoke, There is Fire by Monique Fisher

From the moment that Kara and Aaron “Smoke” met, the sparks between them were instantaneous. However, Kara, fresh off a breakup, isn’t looking for a new relationship. And, while Smoke isn’t looking for a casual affair, he also doesn’t want to give up on her and accepts what he can get from her. This doesn’t mean that he won’t actively be working to change her mind, though.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is also my Seester’s Birthday! I know y’all don’t know her from the Biblical Eve (well apart from those of you who know me in real life), but she’s pretty darn special to me. So, this day is as well. Of course it hasn’t always been that way since you know…we’re sisters. But the important part is we’re close now, which for various reasons, is a huge blessing.

One thing we’ve always had in common, though, is our love of reading. In fact, I’m the one who helped get her hooked on romance (in case anyone is interested, the book in question was Gentle Rogue). Which leads up to today’s recommendations: books with sisters that also somehow tie to our relationship. Enjoy the recs and the personal mini-backstories!

Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Crusie

This is a book and author we both love and have read multiple times. All Sophie wants to do is go to the town of Temptation, help her sister film a video, and leave. Mayor Phin wants the same thing. However, love, along with blackmail, adultery, and gossip among other things, have different plans for them. This is a hilarious and steamy read and remains one of my favorites by this author to this day.

West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras

A Romeo and Juliet retelling set in San Antonio, Texas with battling mariachi bands? And you know it will have a happy ending cause it’s a romance? Sign me up! As weird as it may seem, West Side Story has a huge role in our sister history. After our dad passed away, we went to see the local touring Broadway Across America production. Then when the movie remake came out, we went to see it, for her birthday as a matter of fact. And then we went to see our symphony play along with the original movie. So, it’s something that is now officially one of “our” things. That and the fact that one of the mariachi bands is compromised entirely of sisters, make it perfect for this recommendation theme.

And that’s all for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday. Yes, y’all get to start Thanksgiving off by hearing from me! I’ll be sure to include some novellas for recommendations there for quick clicking and reading just in case you need it as a break from any social engagement.

I can also be found posting on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

— PN Hinton

Kissing Books

Warm Bookish Blankets and Reading Goals

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date November 16, 2022

Sponsored by

Hello and welcome (back) to the Kissing Books newsletter! I’m PN Hinton, and I’m your guide through the rollercoaster world of romance. We’ve almost made it through another week, y’all! Huzzah!

Next week is Thanksgiving, which is mind-boggling to think about it. I am not yet sure of my plans for the day, as I’m holding out hope that my blood family, who I haven’t seen as a whole since December of 2019, will do something. It’s been hard, I won’t lie. That said, not one but two of my aunties have also made declarations that they’re tired of not seeing their family as well. So, silver lining there is that if it doesn’t happen for Turkey Day, it will most likely happen for Christmas.

I finished Dowry’s Meadow (which fair warning ends on a cliff hanger) and started the follow up Dowry’s Punishment. It’s a banana pants plot and, full disclosure, not what I would call historically accurate in a handful of ways. But I’m having fun with it and that alone makes it gold-star worthy. I also started The Kiss Curse to buddy read with one of my romance besties and am enjoying that.

Bookish Goods

Gothic Romance Blanket by fuglybarbie

We’ve had our first real cold snap of the season where I live. So, naturally, I immediately started thinking of ways to bundle up. And yes I turned on my heat already and have no shame at it. Even though I’m still pretty much a novice in the world of Gothic Romance, this blanket spoke to me. Not only does it look warm as all get out, but I love the design on it and it’s perfect for curling up next to a fire or rain-spattered window to indulge in whatever your current book is. Priced at $35.

New Releases

Her Vixen Actress by Violet Cowper

Grace is an aspiring actress in England in 1782 but is not finding any luck at all. That is, until she encounters Frances, a playwright who may just be able to provide her the opportunity she needs. When Frances decides to give her a chance she is rewarded with a kiss that leaves her breathless but scared to pursue more. However, when a wealthy man enters wanting to be Grace’s patron, will Frances stop denying her unexpected desire for Grace or lose her forever? TW: mentions situations of non-dubious consent between other characters.

Securing Ava by Anne Shade

All Ava has wanted her entire life is to carry on her family’s legacy, going so far as to enter into a fake engagement with a man she doesn’t like or even trust. When she believes him to be part of an attempt to hurt her father, she goes on the run. Paige is the PI who is hired to find her, and she’s determined to do just that; at least until she witnesses a failed kidnapping attempt. Then she decides to focus on keeping Ava safe while they try to simultaneously find out who is threatening her family and ignore the feelings quickly developing between them.

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

Riot Recommendations

We’re halfway through November now which means for those of us who choose to set a reading goal, we’re coming down close to the wire. Now, I will say that if you’ve not met your reading goal yet, that is fine. It’s your challenge to yourself and it’s for fun. You shouldn’t beat yourself up if you fall short. And yes, I am also including myself in that kind reprimand because in the past, I’ve been guilty of this.

Now, I’ve already met my goal since I was more pragmatic this year and set a modest goal of 52 books. That way, it averaged to one a week. Now, my goal is to read at least half, if not more, of the books that I’ve obtained this year. Which leads to recommendations for today, which have no other connection apart from they are ones I really want to make a point of finishing before the year rolls over to 2023. Hopefully, this will also help you if you’re in the same boat and pick at least two, if not more, you want to get to as well.

Book Boyfriend by Kris Ripper

I’m a fan of the slow burn and pining, especially if the ‘payoff’ is worth it and has me fanning myself. So, I’m eager to read about PK who puts his unrequited love for his friend Art in a book that becomes a best-seller, and having to deal with the effects of Art realizing he was PK’s muse. Additionally, I really enjoyed The Hate Project by this author so when I heard about the premise for this one, I was sold on zir name alone.

Bet On It by Jodie Slaughter

And for this one, I was sold on the fact that the meet-cute was in a Piggly Wiggly and that they go on Bingo dates. I also really appreciate this recent trend in romance novels that deal with heavier, not darker, topics. I know it’s not for everyone; I think that mourning or dealing with an ill family member is an unavoidable aspect of a relationship and reading how it’s handled in romance novels especially can be helpful.

Surprisingly, this seemingly random ‘pick a name’ quiz guessed my partner’s initial.

Here are some romance novels where the heroine is the one who makes the first move.

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