Category: Kissing Books

Hollywood Romances for Drive-In Movie Day

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date June 5, 2024

Sponsored by

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking time from your day to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

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While it may not “officially” be summer yet, it sure as heck feels like it around here. And I am not a fan. There was one day last week when I thought we would luck out weather-wise. It had stormed heavily the night before so by the time the morning came, it was cool and breezy. But by the afternoon, the heat was on once again. *sad trombone noise*

Bookish Goods

Book Trope Stamp Stickers by TheBookNerdNamedKris

I never collected stamps as a kid, but I am sure tempted to go ahead and get all of these. They’re cute, they’re shiny, and they’re small, which means you can put a lot on one surface. Also, they are only $2, so go ahead and treat yourself by splurging on multiples!

New Releases

Match Me If You Can by Swati Hegde

By day, Jia spends most of her time writing listicles for the popular Mumbai women’s magazine, Mimosa. Her nights are devoted to writing about love on an anonymous blog and weekly game nights with her family and childhood friend Jaiman. When she has the chance to pen a new matchmaking column, she’s excited for the opportunity. The only catch is she has to set up one of her coworkers first. But when that doesn’t go as smoothly as she expected it to, she’s left having to rethink her feelings on love as well as wonder if she should throw caution to the wind and take a chance on Jaiman.

Isabel and the Rogue by Liana De la Rosa

Isabel’s wallflower status is just what is needed when she’s tasked with finding secrets to help Mexico during the French Occupation. During one of her attempts to get this information, she draws the attention of Sirius, a covert agent for the British Home Office, who spends his time trying to learn the secrets of the ton. The attraction is instant and mutual, but when Isabel learns of something that could turn the tide of the turmoil in Mexico in her home country’s favor, she finds herself having to choose between the love of her home country or the love of Sirius.

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

Riot Recommendations

Today is National Drive-In Movie Day. I won’t lie, I love the nostalgic and retro vibe these have. Truthfully, I’ve only been to one, and that was to see Raya and the Last Dragon a few Spring Breaks ago. But the vibe was everything.

While drive-in theaters are pretty rare now, there are a lot of books that center around movies, such as the debut When I Think Of You that came out a few months ago. I do recommend that book for those who want a romance with a Hollywood adjacent setting, as well as the following movie-centric romances. Enjoy!

Reel by Kennedy Ryan

When Cannon sees Neevah perform on a Broadway stage, he knows she’s perfect for the starring role in his upcoming Harlem Renaissance biopic. While there is an instant attraction, neither is willing to risk tarnishing the film by getting into a relationship. The temptation soon proves to be too much, and they give in to their hearts. However, the road ahead won’t be easy, especially when something unexpected threatens everything, and they find they will have to fight tooth and nail for their love.

Something to Talk About by Meryl Wilsner

When the paparazzi snaps a picture of showrunner Jo making her assistant Emma laugh, they are immediately labeled a couple. The gossip begins to affect their professional and personal lives, compounded by the fact that they work closely together. While neither comment on their relationship status, the time spent together soon has them wondering if there is something more to their relationship than they originally thought.

Here are a few more read-a-likes for fans of Abby Jimenez.

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

Kissing Books

Let’s Hear it for the Plus-Sized Boy!

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 31, 2024

Sponsored by

Before we get further, I want to take a moment to comment on the recent development in Romancelandia that saw RWA filing for bankruptcy. What’s enraging is that the RWA is essentially blaming “DEI disputes” as the driving factor for this filing which is complete bullshit. Despite our tendency as romance readers to wear rose-colored glasses, we can all agree that the RWA has always been somewhat problematic. The reason this behavior is biting them in their rear now is because of their refusal to evolve. And, as science class taught us, when something or someone doesn’t evolve with the changing environment around them, they die off. It’s just nature.

I wouldn’t recommend reading most of the articles about this as they are equally as enraging in both title and content. Save your mental health and read this blog post from Smart Bitches, Trashy Books’s Sarah Wendell.

Sorry to start the newsletter off on that foot but I couldn’t not mention it. Let’s move on to happier things, shall we?

Bookish Goods

It’s a Good Day To Read Romance Tote by LoveBooksStudioShop

One of the reasons I equate tote bags with summer is because they are great for library hauls. Growing up, the librarians always loved seeing my sister and me walk in ready to fill our bags with books to read. And the statement here is always true. The price for this tote ranges from $18 – $25 depending on size.

New Releases

Pardon My Frenchie by Farrah Rochon

Between managing her doggie daycare and caring for her twin sisters, Ashanti has her hands full. When the antics of her French bulldog and their poodle bestie go viral, it only adds to the chaos but has the added benefit of giving her business a social media boost. When Thad, the new and grumpy owner of Puddin’ the poodle, pulls her out of the daycare, Ashanti is left with enraged followers and a sad Frenchie. In order to keep her fans happy and save her business, Ashanti has to play nice with Thad. But she never expected love to enter the equation.

Looking for a Sign by Susie Dumond

After breaking up with her long-term partner, Gray visits iconic astrologer Madame Nouvelle Lune and finds out that her upcoming twenty-ninth birthday will see Saturn returning to where it was when she was born and bring drastic life changes. Along with her best friend Cherry, Gray decides to date her way through the zodiac wheel in hopes of finding a perfect match before then. This soon proves to be more challenging than Gray anticipated, but she is determined to finish the project and hopefully find the person she wants to spend the rest of her life with. This one is by Book Riot contributor Susie Dumond, author of Queerly Beloved!

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

Riot Recommendations

In a follow-up to the last set of recommendations, we’re going to be highlighting romances that feature plus-sized men because they are deserving of love too. And as fellow Rioter Allison mentioned in this article a few years ago, there is definitely a lack of this type of representation.

cover of Xeni: A Marriage of Inconvenience by Rebekah Weatherspoon

Xeni by Rebekah Weatherspoon

When Sable passes away, her death affects her niece Xeni and mentee Mason deeply. While mourning, they learn that Sable has bequeathed something to them both. However, this is on the contingency that they get married. Neither are in a position to refuse what was bequeathed to them and decide to make the best of this fake marriage of necessity. What wasn’t in their plans was actually falling in love.

Amped by Marie Lipscomb

Reluctant rock star Liz has decided to leave Vixen’s Wail to focus on her dream of becoming a massage therapist. When she quite literally runs into Jones, a roadie, backstage at a festival, she decides to have one last ‘rock-star’ experience. She never expected to really get to know the soft man below Jones’s gruff exterior or to fall in love with him.

Small apologies if today’s newsletter title got this song stuck in your head. That’s all I have for y’all this Monday. I’ll be back on Thursday with a fresh newsletter. In the meantime you can always catch up with me over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Plus-Sized Romance Recs

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 29, 2024

Sponsored by

Make this your most bookish summer yet with personalized reading recommendations from Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists (aka professional book nerds) are standing by to help you find your next favorite read. Get your recommendations via email, or opt to receive hardcovers or paperbacks delivered right to your door. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Get started today from just $18!

It’s good to see y’all again! If you had a long weekend I hope that you enjoyed it and that it was restful and recharging. Mine was fairly decent and yesterday was the last day of school, which means the Teenager is out for summer break. So, all in all, it’s going well over here.

Bookish Goods

Sit Down and Read Bookmark by KinsBins

Sometimes all you need is a little bit of a firm directive followed by some sweet encouragement to remind yourself to take time for your TBR. $10

New Releases

cover of A Little Kissing Between Friends

A Little Kissing Between Friends by Chencia C. Higgins

When an altercation occurs between exotic dancer Juleesa and music producer Cyn’s latest fling, the life-long besties begin to wonder if there is more between them than a platonic friendship. However, it’s not just years of friendship at risk here as Juleesa is also Cyn’s muse for her musical tracks, which puts their respective careers in jeopardy. This leaves them wondering if a chance at true love outweighs what could happen if it doesn’t work out and if they’re willing to take that risk.

The Ride of Her Life by Jennifer Dugan

When Molly inherits a struggling horse barn from an estranged aunt, she first views it as just another burden that she has to juggle. After seeing it, she changes her mind, thinking about how the profits from selling it could help her start her wedding event planning business. However, Shani, her aunt’s friend and the resident farrier, is determined to stop that from happening. As the two women butt heads over the future of the farm and land, feelings soon develop between them and have them wondering if there is a way for them to both get what they want as well as each other.

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

Riot Recommendations

If you’re following me over on Instagram, you may have seen when I shared this post from author Jenna Louise Skinner on a reporter from The Spectator and their ugly and fatphobic take on Nicola Coughlan’s Penelope Featherington.

I’m not linking to the article since you can see from that snippet there it doesn’t deserve any more traffic than it has already gotten. It screams of fatphobia as well as internalized misogyny and is a disgusting take in 2024. As I’ve stated multiple times, the discourse around Penelope and Colin’s story is whether or not the latter was deserving of the former and not the other way around.

In response to that, I’m going to highlight some books that celebrate plus-sized bodies and show that big girls are deserving of love too. Also, note you can pick up any of the aforementioned author’s books as well and should because they’re awesome.

The Princess Trap by Talia Hibbert

After Cherry is caught in a compromising position with Prince Ruben, the latter quickly puts together a fake engagement scheme to help save his reputation. While Cherry is none too pleased with being backed into a corner, she agrees to go along with the charade. When she finds out that his alleged fairy tale life is less than rosy, she becomes determined to help him find happiness in any way she can and soon falls in love with the tragic prince.

cover image of Knit, Purl, and a Baby Girl by Hettie Bell

Knit, Purl, a Baby, and a Girl by Hettie Bell

After ending up with a positive pregnancy test, Poppy decides that, even though this was not in her plans, she is going to keep the baby. She joins a knitting group to get a feeling of community she is missing from her own family and to start making baby clothes. At her first meeting, there is an instant spark between her and the group leader Rhiannon. However, Rhiannon doesn’t consider herself a family woman and Poppy has a baby on the way. Soon, the two will have to decide if theirs is a fling or if there is a happily ever after in their future.

The Wake Country Public Library will be hosting a Zoom webinar showcasing and celebrating some popular LGBTQIA+ authors and stories. If interested, you can sign up here.

If you’re looking for a book—or two—to pack in your summer beach bag, check out this list!

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime you can always catch up with my over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Pre-Summertime Vibes

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 22, 2024

Sponsored by

I had a great time at the SKULLastic Book Fair last week, as expected. Even though there were tons of books I was interested in, I was good and only walked away with two books; What Moves the Dead and What Feasts at Night. I also fully admit that this was inspired by my recent watch of The Fall of the House of Usher which was, in my ever-so-humble opinion, beyond brilliant.

Bookish Goods

Romance Trope Ice Cream Coozie by MeaggieMoos

I happened across this when I was looking for a fun, bookish goody to share, and y’all…when I realized what it was, the scream of glee I gave out. An ice cream coozie? With romance tropes on it? Sign me up. This is perfect for curling up with a good book and ice cream, especially since you won’t have to worry about cold hands. $9

New Releases

Her Private Security Detail by Patricia Sargeant

Jeremiah’s latest assignment at his family’s security detail is protecting Symone from an unknown threat to her life and nonprofit. Although he’s attracted to the beautiful philanthropist, as his client, she is off limits. However, the imminent danger requires them to spend more time together, which makes it all the more difficult to keep their relationship professional.

Savor It by Tarah DeWitt

It’s summertime in Spunes and time for The Festival of Spunes. Sage and Fisher both have personal reasons for wanting to come out the champion this year and agree to partner up to take home the coveted top prize. As they spend more time together, what started out as a professional relationship quickly develops into more, and they realize that they don’t want summer or their partnership to end.

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

Riot Recommendations

Tinkering With Love by Aliyah Burke

After Dawson moves across the country for her dream job only to discover the position was given to someone else, she is understandably upset. When she’s told that there will be a wilderness retreat with the rest of the company, including Tully, the person who got her job, the situation gets worse. While she tries to remain standoffish, she finds herself succumbing to his charm and wondering what would happen if she lowered her walls with him. But secrets still exist between them and when they come to light, it could destroy the possibility of a happily ever after.

Fire & Ice by Rachel Spangler

After a professional mistake, reporter Max finds herself demoted to curling coverage to make amends. Callie is a curling skipper with dreams of making it to Team USA. She knows that coverage from Max will help pave the way and sets out to show Max the joy of the sport. She slowly begins to melt the ice around Max’s heart towards Callie and curling.

If you’re still yearning for some historical romances, this list has you covered.

Speaking of historical romances, take this etiquette quiz to see how you would fare in high society.

I had way too much fun with this ball gown generator.

Linda Lael Miller was one of my go-to romance authors as a wee book dragon. If you’ve never read her, these books are a good place to start.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. Since Monday is a holiday here in the US, you won’t hear from me again until next Thursday. Until then, you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world to see my adventures in books. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Fancy a Cuppa Love?

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 17, 2024

Sponsored by

Bookish Goods

Tea Bath With a Book Art Print by stasiab

Apart from a plethora of books, a comfy chair, and a good reading light, one item that brings a reading space together is an amazing bookish print. And this particular one showcases the vibes most of us want to channel once we’ve settled into those spaces. $25

New Releases

The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee

When teacher Ava’s former childhood friend Grace returns home to Peach Blossom to take a teaching job at her high school, she is not looking to take a walk down memory lane, especially once the principal announces that Grace will be coaching the bowling team Ava has been championing for years. But when they’re tasked with bringing the new bowling team to championship victory in six months, the women decide to put the past behind them and work together for the future of the team. Now, if only they could ignore the still very much present chemistry between them.

For Pucking Keeps by D. Sparks

Alexis, better known as indie romance author Jazminne Starr, has just relocated to Seattle to deal with her writer’s block, broken heart, and impending deadline. She decides to write a hockey romance and, as luck would have it, her new friend and neighbor is the sister of Tor Bailey, Captain and Center for the Seattle Vipers. As they work together, the attraction between them grows. But once the romance is out there in black and white, will there still be a chance for them to continue what they had started?

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

Riot Recommendations

As promised in the last newsletter, here are some tea-themed romances to curl up with. Enjoy!

Give Love a Chai by Nanxi Wen

Tia is ready to get married and start her new life with Mr. Perfect. She just needs to divorce Andrew, her ex-childhood friend and current husband first. When she shows up at his doorstep demanding that he sign the papers, Andrew views this return as the perfect opportunity for a second chance. However, despite their history, Tia has a current love and isn’t sure if she should throw that away to try it again with Andrew.

cover of The Secret Service of Tea and Treason

The Secret Service of Tea and Treason by India Holton

Alice is the top operative at the Agency of Undercover Note Takers, a title she intends to keep. So when rumors of an assassination plot begin to float around town, she is quickly assigned to the case. She isn’t working alone though, as rival Daniel has been assigned to act as her husband for the duration of the undercover assignment. Neither are happy with this assignment but are determined to keep it up until they find their would-be villain. However, as they continue to play the part of a married couple, they soon find themselves struggling to fight their mutual and fast-growing attraction.

Yet another eerily accurate quiz, at least for me.

If you’re wanting some more hockey romances, check this list out.

Get your shelves prepared for these romances that perfectly combine astrology and Tarot.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday. In the meantime you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Brewing Up Love

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 15, 2024

Sponsored by

Tomorrow is the SKULLastic Book Fair and the excitement cannot be contained. Not only will I pick up a few new books, but I will be hanging out with two of my besties and having a brew or two. What better way to start the weekend?

Speaking of books, I’m still working on Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places, which will be released next week. I also started Looking for Sign, the upcoming release from Book Riot’s own Susie Dumond.

Bookish Goods

Metal Library Card Bookmarks by LavenderCloudStudio

As a lifelong library lover, I couldn’t resist sharing these. They are just too cute and super affordable. So if you have trouble picking just one, you can treat yourself and get all three guilt-free. $5

New Releases

Tiny Truths by Teralyn Mitchell

After his fiancée dumps him, Zane decides he is through with love. Unfortunately, his family missed that memo and keep trying to find him his next match. To avoid getting roped into date after date, he says he is dating his best friend, Rhiannon. When this gets back to Rhiannon, she goes along with the charade, figuring that, if nothing else, Zane would owe her a big favor. But when real feelings start developing during their fake relationship, the two are left wondering what comes next.

Cabin Fever by Tagan Shepard

Morgan is hopeful that her first national trade show will prove to be a profitable endeavor. Then she learns that her professional rival Shelby is also there, which dashes those dreams. When a snowstorm results in canceled flights, Morgan is fortunate enough to get the last rental car and kindly offers to give Shelby a ride home. The bad luck doesn’t stop there, and the two women find themselves stranded in a cabin with a wrecked car and no cell reception. However, as the two spend more time together, feelings between them begin to take root and have them questioning if they are for real or a byproduct of their circumstances.

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

Riot Recommendations

I don’t know about y’all, but the exhaustion has been real for me as of late. I’m almost always tired, no matter how much sleep I get. It’s to the point where if I don’t have at least one caffeinated beverage in the morning, I am severely regretting it by the time the afternoon comes.

While tea will do the trick, coffee is usually the default drink. In honor of the delicious beverage, I’m recommending some romances that center around a coffee shop. If you prefer tea, you can expect some tea-themed romances with the next send. Enjoy!

Sweetly Swirled by M. L. Spann

Bri is going through a rough patch in her life and finds it difficult to remain optimistic. One of the bright spots in her life is her visits to her local coffee shop to see Jayce, the handsome barista. When he hears about her troubles, he offers her a job at the shop. He also asks for her help winning back his ex-girlfriend. Bri agrees to both, even though she holds a candle for Jayce. Once he gets to know her more, Jayce appears to have changed his mind, as the looks he gives Bri are as hot as the coffee they serve.

Living La Vida Mocha by H.M. Shander

When Cara’s seemingly perfect life comes crashing down, she walks into Coffee Loft for a sugary drink as a pick-me-up. She’s surprised to find that the barista is Carter, the college classmate who left for Europe before she could reveal her feelings for him. While the attraction is still there, 13 years is a long time, and neither are the same person they were back then. Will this be the opportunity for a second chance, or will this chance encounter end up with them parting ways again?

Take this poll to see how your trope preferences match up with others.

If you’ve been looking into diving into Molly Harper, here is the chronological list for her Half Moon Hollow series.

While I know that the statement made here is likely very true, I’m still going to try.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I hope that the time between now and when we meet again is kind to you. If you want snippets of me between the sends, then you can always give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated.

Kissing Books

Booktroverts Unite

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 10, 2024

Sponsored by

This Friday, Curio Mrvosa will be hosting its second Skullastic Book Fair. Longtime readers may recall I mentioned this last October and how much fun I had there. So, of course, I’m beyond happy that the store is working to make this a recurring thing, and can’t wait to see what my “halfway to Halloween” haul will look like.

Bookish Goods

Booktrovert Sweatshirt by

While it may not be sweatshirt weather for everyone right now, at some point, it will be. And when it is, this is the perfect sweatshirt to wear when snuggling up with your favorite beverage on a lazy weekend indoors. $48.

New Releases

Wyatt: The Barlowe Mafia by Asia Monique

When Wyatt’s father dies, he becomes head of his family’s mafia. His main priority is to put an end to the rivalry with the Callahan mafia. The proposed agreement is for him to marry Analia, the daughter of a high-ranking Callahan member. While both are prepared to do whatever is necessary for their respective families, neither expected love to be part of the agreement.

Spirits and Sirens by Kelly and Tana Fireside

After her dad asks for her help with their family funeral home, medium Elena returns home to Owen Station, fully ready to embrace the sixth sense that initially made her leave. The one person who isn’t pleased with her return is Allison, the new fire chief, and the feeling is mutual. But when she needs her help in solving a 70-year-old mystery, they agree to a truce and soon are looking at each other with unexpected and different eyes.

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

Riot Recommendations

My sister recently sent me this TikTok that was talking about the superiority of Grease 2, which was one of the movies that we watched constantly growing up. Now, I like both equally. And I do understand the pop culture relevance of Grease. However, that doesn’t mean that its sequel is inferior by any stretch. For some, it is the superior musical, even.

This train of thought led me to think about books that were the second in a series that were just as good as the first one. Now, I know that, as with the Grease versus Grease 2 debate, it is purely subjective. But these are two that stand out the most to me. Enjoy!

Breathless by Beverly Jenkins

Due to not having either in her early childhood, hotelier Portia strives for respect and stability. She also refuses to give up her independence and be tied down to a man, knowing how quickly love can sour. Still, she’s tempted to rethink this mindset when family friend Kent comes back to town. Kent is looking for a forever home and a wife, and sets his eyes on Portia. Once he realizes her feelings towards him, he works even harder to prove to her that they are meant to be.

Tender Rebel by Johanna Lindsey

Roslynn needs a quick marriage of convenience to save her from would-be fortune hunters. When handsome rake Anthony offers to help her, she is hesitant to accept, knowing that he could prove too tempting for her. After spending more time with the Scottish beauty, Anthony knows he has met the woman who he is willing to give up his roguish ways for. And, once that is determined, he sets out to prove it to her.

Take this quiz to find out which Emily Henry hero is your soulmate.

There’s also this one, in case you need some inspiration for your next date night.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday and in the meantime you can always give a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

Socks, Spies, and Shipwrecks

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 8, 2024

Sponsored by

Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Today’s random holiday is Lost Sock Memorial Day. I know that somewhere between starting and finishing laundry, we have all felt the sorrow of losing a sock. It’s no big deal when it’s a plain sock, but I’ve lost some of my fun socks over the years, which is a bit more heartbreaking.

Looking for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift? Go beyond the tried and true flowers and chocolate and give the gift of reading with Tailored Book Recommendations! Our bibliologists are standing by to help your mom find her next favorite read, delivered right to her inbox or doorstep. And with gifts starting at just $18, there’s something for any budget! Head to mytbr.co/gift to send the gift of reading to the book nerd in your life!

It’s been a minute since I’ve updated you on my reading! I am still reading Just For the Summer because that author is one that I like taking my time with. I also started Looking for Love in All the Haunted Places and am adoring it as well.

Bookish Goods

Do Not Disturb, I’m Reading Smut Socks by VulpineVinyls

Today’s goodie is in honor of Lost Sock Memorial Day. They look super soft and comfortable. Plus, they give fair warning to anyone who may be tempted to disrupt your current reading session. $13

New Releases

Honey Pot by Katrina Jackson

Asif and Chanté are spies and lovers. However, Asif’s preference to work alone sometimes leads him into unexpected peril. When he goes missing on his latest mission, Chanté quickly heads out to find him, vowing not to let anyone or anything, including Asif himself, get in the way of their bright future together.

Gillian’s Island by Cara Malone

After her band books a gig on a luxury sapphic cruise, lead singer Scarlet is optimistic about what this means for her career. Veterinary researcher Robin had intended to spend the entirety of the cruise focusing on the wildlife and not the women. Then Scarlet and Robin meet, sparks instantly fly, and the two quickly become close. But when a storm forces all the passengers to abandon ship on an uninhabited island with no way to seek aid, tensions rise between everyone, including Scarlet and Robin, which could wither this blossoming relationship.

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

Riot Recommendations

I’ve noticed an uptick in romances that feature one or both of the main characters getting left at the altar. This breakup usually takes place right at the beginning, leaving plenty of time for the jilted character(s) to start down the pathway of their new love story.

Personally, if I got left at the altar, I’d be through with love for at least a year, if not forever. But if that were the case for these characters, there wouldn’t be much of a story, now would there? With that said, here are the recommendations for today. Enjoy!

cover of That Thing Between Eli and Gwen

That Thing Between Eli and Gwen by J. J. McAvoy

Eli and Gwen have, respectively, found their forever person and are looking forward to settling into married life. But when Eli’s wedding day arrives, his would-be bride runs off with Gwen’s fiancé. After that painful betrayal, Eli and Gwen turn to each other to help adjust to what will be their new normal and soon find themselves wondering if there was a reason their best-laid plans went astray.

Trust Me by Jayne Ann Krentz

While caterer Desdemona is sympathetic towards Stark getting left at the altar, she still needs him to pay the bill for the wedding that wasn’t. When it comes out that Stark has a handful of social engagements that he’s obligated to go to, he hires her company. What begins as a professional relationship soon grows into more as these two opposites find themselves irrevocably drawn to one another.

It’s almost time for the first half of season three for Bridgerton. If you’re looking for some books with the same vibes, check out some of the books listed here.

And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Monday with another romance roundup. If you’re so inclined, you can also give me a follow over on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world to get bookish snippets of me between the sends. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!

Kissing Books

12 Immersive Romantic Adventure Stories To Take You Away

Post author By Samm Saxby
Post date May 7, 2024

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This post is written by Jessica Pryde.

What is an immersive romantic adventure story? The first word is easy: immersive simply means the reader will immediately be pulled into the story, whether it’s through the hook, the plot, or the storytelling itself. The stories in this list vary in terms of how the story is told, but they all have that one thing that will keep you going.

As for romantic — I’m a Romance Novel reader, so a lot of these stories have a love story at their center and an emotionally satisfying ending. But they don’t all have a Happily Ever After because a story can be romantic without that. Since I’m me, though, I’m giving you quite a few love stories steeped in adventure and topped with a HEA or Happy For Now.

Adventure is the hardest aspect to define. Very often, we think of an adventure as something that requires a journey, like Romancing the Stone or Outlander. One or both of the characters are out of their element, and there’s a quest or destination involved. Maybe there’s some element of suspense or danger from an external source — someone is on the run, or there’s a quest to save the world (or maybe just a person). Some adventures might take us to exotic or unfamiliar locations, while others happen right in our backyard. As long as there’s excitement and danger involved, either from the environment or from people — or, in the best cases, from both! — we can call something an adventure. (Why then, you’re asking, don’t romantic suspense novels count as adventure? I have no good answer; they just don’t, sorry.)

The books I’ve pulled together are adventures of all kinds. Some are set in the here and now, while others are set in the past or in fantasy lands. Some are a little more serious, while others are light and fun. There are spies, and pirates, and worlds upon worlds. There are some of our favorite romance novel tropes. There are road trips, and kidnappings, and other kinds of over-the-top action. Many of these stand alone, but others are the start of a series.

Now, let’s set off on our own adventure through romantic adventure stories!

Shaken to the Core by Jae

A good way to send folks on an adventure is to offer them a natural disaster to survive through, and Jae doesn’t pull any punches with sending her main characters through the wringer in 1906 San Francisco. Kate and Giuliana, two women from very different backgrounds, are brought together when Giuliana comes to work as a maid in Kate’s household. They have a connection, but it’s 1906, and their attraction is unfamiliar and very much Not Acceptable. When tragedy strikes, they have to rely on each other to make it through to the other side of the devastation that ravages the city in the form of earthquakes and fire.

Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura

If you want something a little more light, Raiders of the Lost Heart is a jungle-based adventure that will draw the eye of folks who enjoyed Romancing the Stone and The Lost City. Academic rivals Corrie and Ford wind up working together on an archaeological dig when Corrie gets kinda tricked into coming to help Ford on the project that he literally stole from under her. She would turn it down, except for the fact that it’s her biggest passion and life’s work to find the burial site of her warrior ancestor. But their search turns into a bit of misadventure when thieves, authorities, and the landscape itself get in their way.

Olivia and the Masked Duke by Grace Callaway

A historical Charlie’s Angels, you say? (Seriously, the series is literally called Lady Charlotte’s Society of Angels.) Yes, please.

Livy loves two things: solving mysteries and the Duke of Hadleigh. One of those things is surprisingly more attainable than the other, especially when she is recruited into a ladies’ society of spies. Of course, little does she know that Ben, the duke himself, is also set on helping those in need, all while getting his Victorian Batman on as a masked avenger. As the two are brought together by danger, their relationship evolves in the most unexpected ways. (I will add that there is a notable age gap if that’s not your thing, and she has been in love with him since she was 13.)

Hunt on Dark Waters by Katee Robert

If you’re searching for an adventure story that is surprisingly low-key, this might be the series starter for you. Witch Evelyn steals something from her vampire ex-girlfriend and somehow ends up escaping through a portal to another world. She’s picked up by pirates in the land between realms and must not only traverse this new experience, but also deal with the telekinetic captain of said pirates. And whatever might be going on between them.

What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez

This magical successor to the Amelia Peabody Mysteries, this book has everything: mystery, intrigue, displacement, an “infuriatingly handsome assistant,” and all the other great things that contribute to a historical adventure story.

Inez is living The Life in 19th Century Buenos Aires — or she would be if her parents were ever at home. When she inherits their fortune after their sudden death abroad, Inez travels to Cairo to find answers from her new guardian and sets on a journey to find the truth about her parents, the ring her father left her, and the old world magic that seems to be drawing her in.

Something Wilder by Christina Lauren

Back in the twenty-first century, we’ve got the modern-day successor to Romancing the Stone in romance novel form, in which two people who really can’t stand each other are stuck together in the wilderness for far longer than either of them would like. Lily leads fake treasure hunts through the wilderness, and Leo is the last man she ever wants to see again (okay, maybe her dead dad has that honor, but Leo is pretty close). But when their planned fake treasure hunt turns into a very real Dangerous Adventure, they have to work together to figure out how to get back to civilization.

The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton

Flying houses, swashbuckling, and the perfect will-they-or-won’t-they of Actual Enemies To Lovers: what more could you want in an adventure romance? Did I mention the flying houses? Cecilia is a novice member of the Wisteria Society who wants nothing more than to prove herself. When she comes across assassin Ned breaking into her house, we’re put on the path of an adventure like no other.

Deal With the Devil by Kit Rocha

This is a completed series by Kit Rocha (the new one is all about dragons and court intrigue), but that just means you can slam through it without having to wait for another book to release! The logline for this one is “Orphan Black meets post-apocalyptic Avengers,” and you’re going to get everything that works in those two universes here!

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

Come for the adventure, stay for the Words. Erin Morgenstern has only published two books, but they were both worth the wait for the storytelling alone. Here, we have story upon story upon story, with one reluctant hero at the center. We go from present-day New York to worlds beyond and continue to guess with every chapter.

(I could wax poetic about this book for several pages, but it’s better to go in knowing very little!)

That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon by Kimberly Lemming

Do you want to laugh your way through an adventure? Kimberly Lemming is your girl. In this series opener, Cinnamon’s family are spice farmers (of course), and you can take it exactly as it says on the tin. Cin gets drunk with her BFF Brie (who, yes, is a cheesemonger), and on the way home from town finds herself on the wrong end of a demon attack. When she surprisingly breaks him out of the haze he’s been cursed into, he…asks…her to help him on a quest to save all demonkind from the witch who cursed them. Road trip, here we go!

A Heart of Blood and Ashes by Milla Vane

Speaking of road trips, two people on either side of a war find themselves unlikely traveling partners in this incredibly violent and gory fantasy romance. (This one is also quite the doorstopper, which few of the rest are.) Maddek and Yvenne each have their own reasons for entering an alliance, and both of them involve bloodshed in some way. But as they travel together, getting into and out of all kinds of trouble, they learn more about each other and themselves.

Partners in Crime by Alisha Rai

Let’s wrap things up with a caper!

Mira and Naveen are very boring people, and they like it that way. Mira has determined that the best way to find the quiet future she desires is to go through a matchmaker, and Naveen would be just the type she’s looking for. If only they hadn’t already met. And dated. And broken up. Now, however, they find themselves spending one wild night in Vegas, dealing with all kinds of Bad Actors. Maybe this will help bring the two of them together?

Kissing Books

Best Friend’s Sibling Recommendations

Post author By P.N. Hinton
Post date May 3, 2024

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Welcome, or welcome back, to the Kissing Books newsletter. I’m PN Hinton, your guide to all things romance-related. Thanks for taking the time to give this a read! I hope that this newsletter helps to brighten up your day just a little bit more.

Today is Beverage Day! As a self-proclaimed beverage goblin, this gives me a giddy thrill because it’s just a fun day that recognizes the importance and joy that beverages of all kinds bring to us. I know I can’t start my day properly without some form of caffeine and my insulated tumbler stays full of water all day. So, if you happen to be drinking something while reading this, be sure to give it a lift in honor of today.

Bookish Goods

“My Book Buying Shirt” by MorallyGrayandCo

This shirt genuinely made me laugh out loud, especially the smaller print. Because seriously, when I’m on a mission for a book and a little treat, I detest any type of determent. Prices start at $20.

New Releases

Love, Lies, and Cherry Pies by Jackie Lau

Emily’s mother is determined to set her up with Mark, the son of their family’s friends. Feeling like she has no other choice, Emily convinces the somewhat reluctant Mark to agree to fake dating until her mother leaves her alone. When friends begin unexpectedly showing up to their “dates” though, they’re forced to put in overtime to make the ruse believable. The extra time spent together helps Emily see Mark in a different light and has her questioning if she still wants this relationship to be fake.

You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian

When baseball player Eddie is forced to give a series of interviews to reporter Mark, neither man is happy with the situation. However, being well aware they have no other choice, they agree. Soon, the two men find themselves drawing closer to one another. But Eddie’s profession doesn’t allow the luxury of coming out, and Mark refuses to be kept a secret. Will they be able to face the prejudice of the world together or will their love story come to an abrupt end?

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

Riot Recommendations

Are you in the mood for some best friend’s sibling romances? If so, then today’s recommendations are for you!

Down to Ash by Melissa Blue

Victor returned from his stint as an Army bomb tech a broken and dangerous man. Only his best friend kept him from going completely over the edge. So, when he develops an attraction to Ashley, said friend’s sister, he tries to ignore it. But when the temptation proves to be too great to overcome, Victor is left having to decide if the feelings she ignites in him are worth the loss of the friendship.

Driving Her Wild by Mariah Ankenmann

Due to having a crush on the younger Josie, Bex is having second thoughts about picking the woman, her best friend’s sister, up from the airport. What she doesn’t know is that Josie also feels the same way about her. And, when a series of circumstances on the two-and-a-half-hour ride home result in the two women having to stay the night in a motel, she sets out to show Bex that she is all woman now and more than just Max’s little sister.

Check out this round-up of some of the best Vanessa Riley books.

And that’s all she wrote for today. I’ll be back in your inboxes on Thursday, and in the meantime, you can find me on Instagram under @pns_bookish_world. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!