Category: Kissing Books

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well today. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If this is your first time reading this newsletter, I’m glad that you’re here. If you’re a regular reader, welcome back; it’s always good to see you. 

I have a happiness challenge for you this Monday morning! I want you to think back to the song that was your song as a kid. By that I mean, the song that no matter where you were in the house, when you heard the first few notes you would come running to dance and sing your lungs out. When you remember that song, play it during a challenging time of the day and see if that doesn’t increase your serotonin levels. 

In case you were curious, mine was Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me).” 

Romance Reflection:

I saw this tweet the other day and it really stuck with me because I can’t even imagine doing something like returning something that was for charity. That’s a new level of low and there is a super special apartment reserved in whatever their version of the Bad Place is for people who do that. 

As I read the rest of the thread though, I found that people do this a lot, which again boggles my mind. I knew that returning digital books was an option because I have seen the option before on a book’s info page. But I never even attempted to do it because, unless it’s a highly anticipated release, it’s rare that I read books right after I buy them. And that is usually reserved for pre-orders, which is also a rare purchase for me.

Here’s the thing; I’m not a big fan of keeping books, digital or physical, that I didn’t enjoy after I finished them. Heck, I’m not even a fan of keeping the ones I enjoyed that I won’t ever re-read again for various reasons. Life’s too short and space is too limited to hold on like that and, while I don’t adhere to the Kondo way of thinking of only having thirty books, the occasional purge is nice, digital or physical.

Let me be clear though; buying books with the sole intent to return them when you’re done is shady. 

It’s one thing if you start it and find a deal breaker within the first fifty pages. In those cases, yes, I understand returning it for a refund. You didn’t finish it for whatever reason. But it’s not okay to buy an entire series of books, breeze through them all, then return them for a full refund. This is especially true if the authors themselves have to pay an additional fee when that is done. That’s nonsense and more than a little unkind overall.

If you’re that type of reader, then either just use your library or get Kindle Unlimited. Since it’s a monthly fee and you can gorge on books to your heart’s content, even with the borrowing cap it has. Honestly, the only reason I don’t do that is because I don’t read fast enough to justify the costs. 

No one likes every book they read. That’s just a fact of life. But, if you purchase and read a digital book in its entirety and don’t like it, take the L and learn to click with more caution in the future. That’s happened to me in the past, which is why I’m more mindful of my digital purchases. But returning books that you’ve fully read for a full refund is just wrong.

Book Riot Romance:

Here are some romances from the 1950’s for your consideration.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

Around the Web in Romance:

Here are some of the M/M romances coming our way in April.

Check out this unboxing Ruby Barrett had for The Romance Recipe.

And if you’re a fan of sports romances, check out some of the recommendations here.

If you’re itching for more Bridgerton quizzes, here are twelve you may have missed. Yes I know the title says thirteen but I also know that I’ve shared one recently, so hopefully that is one you’ve already tried.

Yet another request for more diverse romance adaptations. Don’t get me wrong, I love the Bridgertons but I would also love to see the LeVeq or Westmorelands up on screen as well, especially since they’ve been around longer than the former family.

Frolic’s Monthly Book Crush is none other than Prem from Dating Dr. Dil, which happens to be on my currently reading pile.

New Releases:

Here are the new releases that were slated to be released this week. Please note that, as usual, these were the dates that were reflected as of the writing of this newsletter. 

Secrets from the Heart by Sean D. Young (4/11)

Influenced by Love by J. Nichole (4/12)

The Romantic Agenda by Claire Kann (4/12)

With a Twist by Georgia Beers (4/12) 

No Rings Attached by Rachel Lacey (4/12)

Show Queen by Renee Dahlia (4/12) 

Show Me Forever by Layla Hagen (4/12) 

What a Match by Mimi Grace (4/13)

His Royal Highness by Stephanie Nicole Norris (4/15)  

The Forgotten Dead by Jordan L. Hawk (4/15) 

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I won’t lie; I’m super excited for No Rings Attached and it’s already pre-ordered.

Well, that’s it for this Monday morning. I hope that it, and your song of choice, helped to start your day and week off on the right foot. I’ll be back Thursday with a fresh newsletter and in the meantime, I can be found posting over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading!

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time reading this newsletter, I’m glad that you’re here. If you’re a regular reader, welcome back; it’s always good to see you.

Romance Reflection

Some people have become unnecessarily nasty with the cast of Bridgerton on a personal level, which I take issue with. First, let’s start with the backlash against Jonathan Bailey as it recently became public knowledge he’s gay. This caused a huge backlash from fans, with the most hottest garbage take being that the chemistry between him and Simone was now nonexistent.

For anyone with that mentality, let me just say that you’re acting saltier than the Dead Sea for no reason. The chances of him falling in love with a random fan even before this was revealed is still the same as it was before. Which is zero. 

The idea of a handsome movie star sweeping us off our feet, a popular theme in contemporary romance, is the grown version of the ‘becoming a princess’ fairy tale. Does it happen? Yes, but not that often. Also, Jonathan being gay doesn’t negate him being a good actor as well as an an attractive man. The chemistry was still believable and that’s all there is to it.

Then there’s the backlash against Charithra, such as fans cutting her out of promotional poster. Why? Because of the love triangle that was written in for the story, which was out of her hands. Did I love this change? No. Am I going to take that out on the actress? Absolutely not. She played the role that was written for her and she did it well.

She also had a ‘friend’ tell her she only got the role because of the ‘diversity quota’ which boiled my blood. No one needs that negativity from anyone, let alone a ‘friend’. I sincerely hope that Charithra gave them their walking papers.

Please just remember that at the end of the day these are people doing the job they were hired to do. Both did it very well, as did the other members of the cast. 

Stop. Being. Hateful. It’s not a good look on anyone. 

Book Riot Romance

Don’t forget to listen to this week’s When in Romance with special guest Liberty Hardy where, among other things, they talk about monster romances and give recommendations for it.

Here is a round-up of some of the exciting romance novels coming out this month. 

Around the Web in Romance

Here are some more recommendations for enemies-to-lovers romances.

Check out this clip of the cast of Bridgerton reading from The Viscount Who Loved Me and understand why I almost crashed when I listened to Adjoa Andoh narrate Get a Life, Chloe Brown.

I’m all for guy-liner cause you do you boo, but I will admit I snorted when I saw the eyes on the Ken doll in this romance novel cover recreation.

According to this quiz, I’m almost romantic and, after reading the description, I really can’t argue.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

Recommendations

I mentioned earlier that celebrity romance novels are a modern day spin on the “becoming a princess” trope. And yes, I know that royal romances are still very much a thing, especially in Ye Old Kingdom of Hallmark around the holidays. But I don’t think it happens nearly as often in contemporary fiction because there is a modern counterpart for it. And I don’t want to make it seem like I do not appreciate it or begrudge those who like them. That’s why my recommendations today all are ones that involve a celebrity in some way.

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And that’s all I have for y’all today. I hope that this week is restful and relaxing for you and, as always, has a dash of reading in it. I’ll be back Monday with another fresh newsletter ready for your enjoyment and, should you want to hear more from me in the meantime, I can be found posting on Twitter under @Pscribe801.

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time reading this newsletter, I’m glad that you’re here. If you’re a regular reader, welcome back; it’s always good to see you.

This last week was challenging for me because I actually had to deal with someone mansplaining to me, as in he said a basic word and then proceeded to give me the definition of it. Y’all…I’m an English Major. I probably know more $50 words than he ever will. I know it happens and I’ve seen and heard of it happening to others, but it was my first time. What was even worse was that it happened in a place where I had to reign in my response instead of lighting into him like I wanted. But wow…the rage I felt caused me to actually almost see red. 

In things currently bringing me joy, I got a Paramount+ subscription and am revisiting childhood favorites, primarily Are You Afraid of the Dark? I also finished Meet Cute Club and found it delightful. I was also able to start I’ll Come Back For You and the level of excitement I have for this cannot be measured. 

Romance Reflection

You know one thing I love? The Romancelandia Twitter trends. You know the ones I mean. Most recently it has been the “Anyone who thinks romance novels have unrealistic plots should know that…”. Before that it was the one about “if romance novels taught me anything.” 

I like these for many reasons. First, it’s genuinely an interesting way to find out a little more about someone. I’m one that believes that when it comes to social media, you only know what the person allows you to know. And that’s okay. Everyone has the right to a bit of privacy. So I appreciate the little glimpse into their lives. 

It’s also a great way to cleanse my timeline from all the other negative things that are there when I scroll through. I know a lot of people like to say Twitter is the most toxic platform of all but let’s be honest here; they’re all equally toxic. It’s not a contest and even if it were, one social media platform being less toxic than another one is akin to coming in second at a contest for making a garbage sandwich. At the end of the day, it’s still a garbage sandwich. 

Plus, it’s just fun. Sometimes you do things just because they’re fun. As adults we get caught up in the constant need to always be busy so we don’t always take the time to just have fun. And there’s nothing wrong with that no matter what age you are. So bring them on! Who knows maybe I will actually chime in on one soon when I feel I have something relevant to bring to that table. 

Book Riot Romance

If you’re looking for more queer rom-coms (and honestly, who isn’t?) here are ten swoon-worthy options.

Here is a roundup of recommendations that play on the best friends to lovers trope.

Around the Web in Romance

Here are a few more romances for adaptation consideration. What I do like about this list is that there are notable authors of color here, which is something that is desperately needed since the only adaptations we have now are by white authors.

Here is an absolutely stunning thread of Oscar outfits as romance novel covers!

Check out this gorgeously stunning Rebel Carter cover reveal.

This is an amazing piece about how LGBTQ romances are finally getting the recognition that they deserve.

There is a Queen Charlotte spin-off/prequel in the works and they’ve cast India Amarteifio as young Charlotte and Arsema Thomas as young Lady Danbury. Golda Rosheuvel and Adjoa Andoh are set to reprise their roles as well, along with Ruth Gemmell.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

New Releases

Here are some of the new releases I found for this week. As always, remember that these dates may change for various reasons, but that these were the dates showing up at the time that this newsletter was being written.

Love Me Now by Isabel Hansen (4/4) 

Blood Thinners by Heather Novak (4/4) 

Indigo: Blues by Adrian J. Smith

The Wedding Crasher by Mia Sosa (4/5)

Cold Cases and Bitter Enemies by J.M. Dabney (4/5) 

Business Not as Usual by Sharon C. Cooper (4/5)

Sari, Not Sari by Sonya Singh (4/5)

Know You by Heart by Tif Marcelo (4/5)

A Southern Street King Earned Her Love 2 by Porscha Sterling (4/7)

Famous in a Small Town by Kylie Scott (4/7)

Boulder Bear by Stephanie Stern (4/8)

Love on Replay by Monica Walters (4/8)

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And that’s all I have for y’all today. I hope that your week has started off on the right foot to help set the stage of the rest of the week. I’ll be back on Thursday with a fresh newsletter and, until then, you can always follow me over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading!

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader welcome back. 

Fair warning that a good portion of this newsletter is Bridgerton related or adjacent.

Romance Reflection

There will be slight spoilers for the recent season of Bridgerton in this reflection. If you haven’t had the chance to watch it yet, you may want to skip the reflection for today and come back later when you’re done.

I marathoned the entirety of Season 2 over the last weekend because I was impatient to know how it would all turn out. And, overall, I enjoyed it. That said, I also understand why people didn’t. The plot was completely changed, too much for it to be called an actual adaptation. At best it’s an ‘as inspired by’ situation.

While there were differences from the first season and the first book, such as it not being Daphne’s debut season, for the most part, it was still close to the source material. That wasn’t the case this season so for the purist out there, I get your annoyance. Here is a rundown of my personal take on the changes that were made.

My biggest complaint about the season was how they played up the love triangle and completely fabricated the sister’s animosity. While it all got resolved by the end, at one point, Edwina lashed at Kate and emphasized that they were half-sisters. This was never an issue in the book so I hated it was mentioned at all by any of the Sharmas. However, I appreciated that Edwina was more than just a plot device because that is basically what she amounted to in the book.

I liked the bee scene. Was it different? Yes, but it still established a connection between Kate and Anthony. And I understand why it wasn’t used as the catalyst for them getting married. The show has brought a lot of new people to historical romances. While those who have read them for years understand the importance and sometimes necessity of the ‘compromise’ scene, newbies may not. I do feel that if they had kept it, there would have been cries of “That is exactly what happened last season!!” 

Now I know that people were upset about the desk scene not being there but let’s be honest about it. Anthony steps on Kate’s foot and kicks her. Hard. Yes it served as a conduit and prompted the first kiss; but, I do not think it would have transferred well to the screen. Even with as much as I love the book, I do have issues with that interaction. 

We did get the Pall Mall scene and while it was different, it still helped to establish a turning point in their relationship, while giving insight to how their rivalry would always remain even if it was playful.

I didn’t mind the lack of sex scenes since I felt that the longing and the pinging and the “almost” everything was well done.

Ultimately, I feel the book and the season need to be judged on their own standing. And of course regardless of how you feel about it, remember everyone is entitled to their own opinion. 

Book Riot Romance

Second chance romance, YA edition!

Around the Web in Romance

Here are other ways that the second season differed from the source material.

Another season, another round of book recs for Bridgerton fans. I love it!

More Edwina? If it’s the show version, I’m all for it.

If you’re a fan of the “Smash or Pass” trend that’s been going around, here’s another round to play.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial! 

Recommendations

Since the majority of the content today was in reference to a historical romance, all my recommendations today will be contemporary picks. That said, I’m still going to focus on enemies-to-lovers though since that is my catnip and what the relationship between Kate and Anthony is in the book.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

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And that’s all I have for you today. I’ll be back on Monday with another round-up of romance reflections, updates, and new releases. Remember to give me a follow, if you’re not already, over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading! 

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader, welcome back. 

It’s the last Monday in March y’all. This time next week, we’ll be in April and at the beginning of the second quarter of 2022. It’s hard to believe, especially when I remember that in roughly nine weeks it will be summer again. I know the Teenager will be happy at that but it will be an adjustment for me to get use to having someone around during my work day. No worries though, I’ll manage. I always do. 

I also saw Turning Red last week and loved everything about it. I know there has been a lot of criticism for it, to which I saw *raspberry*. In the 80’s and 90’s we were overwhelmed with all the teenage, horny boy movies and all the content that would not fly today. So we can deal with a movie about a girl who is going through puberty and all the ups and downs it entails. Because everyone who went through it knows that it’s more than just boobies and getting your period.

Romance Reflection:

I’ve been seeing a lot of discussion on The Smolder in Romancelandia as of late. I think part of that is due to the release of the second season of Bridgerton and seeing all the smoldering looks between Anthony and Kate. And I totally get it. Because boy howdy some of those ocular exchanges…. *fans self*

Smolders abound in romance novels and movies. And it’s so glorious to read about and see in a romantic movie. It’s been said that the eyes are the window to the soul and typically are easy ways to decipher how someone is feeling. Unless one has perfected the art of a poker face or RBF, which is something I wear proudly most days. It took me a lot of years to perfect mine and gosh darn it, I’m going to show it off. 

Getting back on track, sometimes you just can’t help looking at someone with such stark emotion on your face. And that is where the smolder comes in. Especially if it happens before either one or both of the main characters are willing to admit that they have feelings for one another. Or they let the mask slip because they think no one is watching and then someone, hopefully a friend, tells them in not so many words, “I totally saw you eye-banging them, just so we’re clear.”, much like the gif here illustrates. 

And when the object of the observer catches the smolder and is caught off guard not knowing what to do or how to feel? Especially if they were previously combative with one another?!?! YES!! All the yes and swooning there. 

So, bring on more of the smolder. Bring on the eyes that promise all the dirty and decadent things that will be done behind closed doors. Give me more of the longing gazes across crowded ballrooms or bars. I will always be here for it.

Book Riot Romance:

If you like manga, webtoons, and romance, this list has some recommendations for you.

Around the Web in Romance:

Here is this delightful round-up of 2022 romance novel covers as cocktails.

I had fun taking this Smash or Pass quiz that feature older Hollywood celebrities. And I won’t lie; I almost broke my mouse button on more than a handful for them.

I don’t know who this person was but I know they need to go kick rocks. Naysayers will need to stop saying romance writers aren’t intelligent when they’re some of the most intelligent people out there.

Kacen Callender is writing an adult romance novel!!

Love’s Sweet Arrow started a Trope Tuesday series on their TikTok and I’m excited to see what all they recommend in the coming weeks. I also strongly co-sign on the recommended book.

You mean you will pay me to say that I rejected you? I’m here for it. I agree someone needs to write this book because, whoo, is there potential there. I would definitely buy it.

Read this interview with Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran about their experiences joining the Bridgerton cast.

And this piece about how the friendship between Eloise and Penelope parallels in the books and show. This is one of the endearing constants in the series, so happy to see that.

New Releases:

Here are the books showing as being scheduled for release this week, although some of them may be subject to change. There’s a lot of exciting ones coming out so prepare your wallets and bank account accordingly.

Chet Lee by Monica J Charles – (3/27)

Malum Discordiae by Ashlyn Drewek (3/28) 

Going Public by Hudson Lin (3/29)

What Happens on Vacation by Brenda Jackson (3/29)

Her Favorite Rebound by Jackie Lau (3/29)

The Dragon’s Bride by Katee Robert (3/29)

A Duke, the Spy, an Artist, and a Lie by Vanessa Riley (3/29)

A Small-Town Girl by Diana Anyango (3/30)

The Water’s Edge by Jerica Taylor (3/31)

You and Me Together by Kitty Jones (3/30)

Big Duke Energy* (3/30)

Last Resort by K. Bromberg (3/30) 

*Anthology

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And that’s all I have for y’all on this lovely Monday morning. I hope that your week has started off on the right foot and, if it was challenging, that this newsletter helped with a boost of serotonin. I’ll be back Thursday with another one and some recommendations. If you’re not already following me on Twitter, I can be found posting under @PScribe801. Happy reading!

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader welcome back. 

As y’all know I had last week off and I ended it by going to a small, local Renaissance Faire on Saturday with friends and the Teenager. While he was moody most of the day, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was small enough to get around quickly if you needed to and not constantly be in a crush of people. I also got some new pieces of jewelry which I enjoyed. A great ending to a good week.

In ‘What I’m Reading’ news, Meet Cute Club and Out on the Ice on both on my reading shelf.

Romance Reflection

While I want to get out of the habit of constantly rehashing less-than-stellar news, there are some things that just need to be discussed, such as the one for today, which is about the harassment that Jennifer L. Armentrout is receiving since the publication of her latest book, The War of Two Queens. 

I’m not here to hash out the scene in question, whether it fits the characters, or anything like that because it’s not for me to say. What I will say is the reactions from the fans, which have ranged from physical threats to doxxing, are ridiculous.  

Y’all. This type of behavior needs to stop. Like, yesterday. Authors are people too. 

It’s okay to be angry, sad, or disappointed with the direction a book takes. I’m not discounting that. It’s okay to be extremely passionate about it. But It’s not okay to threaten the author just because something didn’t play out the way it was shipped in your brain. Just stop reading the books and, if you’re feeling that froggy about it, the author altogether.

Book Riot Romance

Be sure to listen to the latest episode of When in Romance and hear more on Jess and Trisha takes on some of the questionable things that have been occurring in Romancelandia as of late.

Around the Web in Romance

Here are some books that feature a single parent as one of the main characters.

I loved this thread of celebrity couple pictures as romance tropes.

Pick your favorite condiment in this quiz and find out your taste in men.

Check out this interview with Julia Quinn and a sneak peek of Season 2 of Bridgerton which launches tomorrow!

Everything about this exchange gave me warm fuzzies.

If you missed Margo Hendricks’s Masterclass in Indigo, you’re in luck since you can check it out here.

There is a new anthology out to help support Ukraine.

Recommendations

Recently one of my oldest and closest friends went through an unexpected life challenge when her boyfriend, who is relatively young, underwent open heart surgery. His family lives in another state so everything fell on to my friend. And while she doesn’t mind because, you know, she loves the guy, it was still a very overwhelming experience. 

She’s also part of my book club and a few weeks ago we had our meet up which also served to give her a break. When it came to picking a new book her only request was something light and fun that didn’t require a lot of heavy thinking. The consensus ended up being The Ex Hex.

Sometimes it is nice to read a romance novel purely for the romance factor. There’s no social commentary, trauma, or anything like that. Because, while I think those are important to call out, it’s not something you can read all the time as it weighs heavily on you after a while.

With that in mind, my recommendations this week will be centered around lighter romances. As in they are romances with little to no angst, drama, or trauma. They’re just about two people falling in love. 

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

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And that is all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back next Monday with a fresh newsletter full of wonderful romance related things. In the meantime, you can follow me over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Have a great weekend!

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader, welcome back. 

Today marks my first day back at the day job after a week off. And it’s a bit bittersweet to be honest. Like most people, I enjoy the time off when I make myself take some and think, “Oh I could do this forever.” But then reality sinks in and I realize that I’m someone who can’t not work. I’d like to think that I am but I am honest enough to know that I will always need to do something to keep my brain busy. Otherwise I would go insane.

That said, I am already thinking of when my next extended weekend or vacation will be. Likely when the kiddo is off, since that way I don’t have to worry about getting him up and moving for school. 

In things currently bringing me joy, I have jumped on the Wordle and Quordle train and trying to solve the puzzle has been added to my morning routine along with coffee. 

Romance Reflection:

There’s one thing I feel doesn’t get enough love in romance novels and that’s the secondary love story. And by that, I don’t mean second chance love; I mean the secondary one in the same book. That’s the one that isn’t the main coupling of the story but rather the one we get the snippets of in-between the MCs’. Or, better yet, it’s the one you can see the seeds being planted for but doesn’t come to fruition until they get their own book 

I am here for it. 

There are a few reasons for this but I think one of the main reasons is that it can teach perspective. It takes us past our own personal bubble to see what is happening with others. I could be stretching here, and I won’t be insulted if you feel I am, but it really does. We talk a lot about not fully knowing anyone else’s story as a reminder to be kind. But it’s also a good reminder that you’re only the main character in your life, not necessarily in someone else’s. 

To put a rosy spin on it, there is always another love story that could be happening outside the main one and this helps us to not only recognize that but also appreciate it. And sometimes, although not in the case of the book mentioned here mind you, the secondary love story is better than the main one. 

A good example of this was Verity and Monk from Reel. Don’t get me wrong, I adored the book and Canon and Neevah’s story. But the history between Verity and Monk and the references that were made by the characters who were in the know, even if the audience wasn’t the wiser, was a great and tactical move by Kennedy Ryan. I wanted to know more about their first time on the love train. I wanted to know what caused it to derail. And I definitely want to know what will make that choo-choo go, “I think I can” a second time. 

So please, more secondary love stories in romance please. I’ll eat them up like candy.

Book Riot Romance:

This is a good read on how literary novels can be enhanced with the thread of a love story.

Around the Web in Romance:

Considering that two bits of writing advice that are constantly given are “Write what you know” and/or “Write what you want to see”, this is an interesting take indeed. Another option is to, you know, pick up a different book and skip that one but whatever. Please note that the OP does not agree with that assessment and were just referencing it.

The amount of jealousy I feel with this tweeted picture cannot be measured. So…pretty. To this day I still don’t know what happened to my OG copy of Indigo.

Here are some of the best unscripted moments from some of our favorite rom-coms. Numbers 3, 7, 8, and 14 were the ones I was more surprised about.

Here are three upcoming historical romances to add to your TBR.

I haven’t seen tick, tick…Boom! yet, but this deleted scene almost gave me the vapors. That head tilt he did when the dress was revealed…

And speaking of movies I was already excited for The Lost City, and this clip just ramped that up.

I really enjoyed reading this article that introduces us to the Bridgerton’s Sharma family. Seems like there will be a bit of a rivalry between Edwina and Kate which makes me a little nervous. However, I will wait and see how it all plays out before I pass judgment. 

New Releases:

As always, please note that these were the dates that were showing as of the writing of this article.

Red Blossom in Snow by Jeannie Lin (3/21)

The Eos Key– by D.M. Lewry (3/22)

Gouda Friends by Cathy Yardley (3/22)+

Savvy Sheldon Feels Good as Hell by Taj McCoy (3/22)

I’ll Come Back For You by Charish Reid (3/24)*

Tough Luck by Annabeth Albert (3/24)

Salty Cowboy by Elana Johnson (3/24)

Storm Chasers by ML Preston (3/25)

Uncovering Her Hunger by Rae Shawn (3/25)

Not Your Type by Elizabeth Jeannel (3/25)

+I’m super excited for this one.

*According to Amazon I pre-ordered this on November 28th of last year; so, to say I’m highly anticipating it would be an understatement. Be sure to check out the author’s unboxing here.

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And that is all I have for you today. I’ll be back on Thursday with more romance reflections, news, and recommendations. If you’re not already following me on Twitter, I can be found posting under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading! 

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader welcome back. 

I am almost at the end of my week off and it has been glorious. It was just what I needed; a chance to recharge my batteries and spend time with my kiddo. Which is always a winning combination. In reading news, I finished I’m So (Not) Over You and started my re-read of The Viscount Who Loved Me to prepare for March 25th. 

Romance Reflection

There is something that I feel doesn’t get discussed enough in Romancelandia and that is the dangers of listening to romance audiobooks while trying to multitask and do other adult duties. 

First, I will say audiobooks are not my go-to for reading. I don’t judge those that do because of course it counts as reading. But I just prefer to read on my own. Occasionally though I will pick them up and read them and when I do, it’s always a pleasant experience. But there have also been some, shall we say, memorable experiences with them as well. 

I actually haven’t listened to a lot of romance audiobooks and the two that readily come to mind were both by Talia Hibbert. The first was Get a Life, Chloe Brown narrated by the marvelous Adjoa Andoh otherwise known as Lady Danbury. I listened to it when I was still commuting to and from my office. I loved the banter between Red and Chloe but of course knew there would be sexy times ahead. And I tell you, the first time that Adjoa growled in Red’s voice, I almost swerved off the road. 

Then I was listening to The Roommate Risk, back when it was still titled Wanna Bet?, narrated by Cornell Collins. That story is first told in different timelines and in the present, Rahul and Jasmine are just friends. So, when a flashback to the past sets up the scene where it made it seem like they would engage in sexy times. I was like “Naw, they’re just friends. They’ll stop.”

They didn’t stop. 

So here I am in my break room, frantically trying to hit pause on my phone because I’m certain all my co-workers can hear the horny fun coming from my earbuds. 

Then there was another scene later on that I listened to while trying to clean. And I got distracted by the narrator’s voice and breathed in a bit too much of the cleaning product and had to leave the bathroom for fresh air.

So just remember to listen to romance books with caution. 

Of course again, this is all in jest. Both books were delightful and I highly recommend them.

Book Riot Romance

Speaking of Talia Hibbert, here is a list of a few authors who write in a similar fashion.

Check out this list of romances that take place in New York City.

Or some of these romance manga recommendations.

Around the Web in Romance

The answer to the question proposed in this article regarding Eloise Bridgerton: yes, we have.

If you’re looking for more romance fantasy novels, check out this list.

Here are some romances that were just what the doctor ordered.

If you’re looking for a fun quiz, check out this one where you write a letter to a loved one to see if they feel the same way.

Recommendations

Since today is St. Patrick’s Day, my recommendations for today are going to be books that feature Irish characters or take place in Ireland. A few even mark off both requirements.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

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And that’s all I have for this Thursday. I’ll be back Monday with another wonderful newsletter full of romance goodness for y’all. In the meantime, give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading and have a wonderful weekend.

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader, welcome back. 

I am officially on vacation for the week from my day job and I am so looking forward to it. It will be a lot of recharging, relaxing, reading, and hopefully catching up on shows and movies. We have plans to go visit with some friends that live in a nearby small town, maybe do an overnight sleepover. Past that though, I don’t know if we’re going anywhere because gas prices are high and we all know why that is. Regardless, though it will be great and a break that is sorely needed. 

Romance Reflection:

It’s March y’all and wow…there has been a lot of drama going on in Romancelandia already this year. The latest one was about a specific book that was optioned and honestly?

I don’t want to talk about that. I feel like that specific, half-ass attempt at a redemption story arc happens at least three times a year, if not more. I know I’ve discussed it before and I’m tired of having to say it over and over again since clearly, in terms of publishing houses, it’s not being taken seriously.

I make this statement to let y’all know I’m not unaware of this book or the situation. There’s nothing more that needs to be said on it apart from a majority of the community doesn’t want it and that should alone be enough to prevent books like this from being optioned.

Instead this reflection will be something more uplifting and hopefully humorous. This is actually something I plan on doing more going forward to try to have more of an even balance between lighter things and things that should be probably be discussed more often.

This is a pondering that I’ve actually had for a while. First, let me say that what started this was the Bridgerton season two preview, which gave me LIFE this week. The Pall Mall scene, the banter between Anthony and Kate, the hand reaching scenes and of course Newton. I really hope that the bee is still used as the reason for the compromising scene because it’s still hands down one of the best I’ve read. 

And the wet shirt scene? It was brief but man there was a lot to unpack in those few seconds. I loved the reaction of both Sharma sisters, especially Edwina’s reaction to Kate, because it was a very sisterly “You know I can actually see you right?” look.

That said, it did make me question what exactly were men’s shirts made of back then? It doesn’t seem like they were very useful in terms of keeping one warm since they turned positively sheer when they got wet. Our attention (referring of course to Romancelandia) was drawn to this with Colin Firth’s Mr. Darcy of course and it seems that Jonathan Bailey’s Anthony Bridgerton will be that awakening for this generation. 

Let the record state I’m perfectly fine with both. 

But, yeah; it seems like it’s made of paper for how quickly it crumbles when it gets wet. And maybe I don’t see enough wet modern men’s dress shirts, which in and of itself can be a tragedy, but yeah. Seems that at least the quality of said shirts has improved since the Regency era. 

That said, I fully admit I will probably rewind that scene at least three times. I’m under no illusions about the type of person that I am.

Book Riot Romance:

I’ve talked briefly about this before here, but I was able to expand on alternative terms to ‘clean’ when talking about romances with no sex scene with this article.

Click here to be entered into a giveaway for a one-year subscription to Book of the Month. They’ve actually been quite consistent with romance options in that last couple of months which is always nice.

We also opened up another giveaway for a gift certificate to the Ripped Bodice. Summer is closer than you think so perfect time to stock up!

Around the Web in Romance:

I knew I wasn’t the only person to react that way to the Bridgerton trailer but it’s still nice to see proof of it in through the written word.

This collection of covers from a now defunct publishing house that I hadn’t even heard of was gorgeous and amazing to see. I truly appreciate the OP sharing that with us.

Speaking of publishing houses, Harlequin has expanded even more on their scholarship program.

If you’re a fan of billionaire romances, then you’re in luck with this list.

This is also me.

To quote a popular meme, “I want to go to the there.”

The cover was revealed for Erin Sterling’s upcoming book, The Kiss Curse.

And Rebekah Weatherspoon has a new Audible Original available now.

New Releases:

The Mercy Sisters: Love Delivered by J. Nichole (3/15) 

Dating Dr. Dil by Nisha Sharma (3/15) 

Hard Rush by Cali N. Tae (3/15)

To Tame a Beast by Elizabeth Silver (3/15)

The League of Gentlewomen Witches by India Holton (3/15) 

The Game by Jan Gayle (3/15)

Exclusive by Melissa Brayden (3/15)

The Spy and her Serpent by Maria Ying (3/15) 

She’s the Boss by Reina Torres (3/17)

A False Start by Elsie Silver (3/18)

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And that’s all I have for you lovely people today. I’ll be back on Thursday with another romance reflection, news and recommendations. I hope that the week is kind to you until then and in the meantime give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Until then!

Hey y’all, welcome to the Kissing Books newsletter. I hope your spirit is doing well. I’m PN Hinton, your guide through the roller coaster of a ride that the world of romance can be. If it is your first time here, welcome and if you’re a regular reader welcome back. 

I hope that your week has been going well so far. I’m still recovering from stage managing a show on Saturday. Was it tiring? Yes. Was it rewarding? Also yes. There’s something that’s so satisfying about watching a show come together.

Romance Reflection

There was an issue over in Romancelandia over the weekend regarding a blurb that was released about a book that used ableist language in their book blurb. Then later the author ‘apologized’ with this statement.

So I’ll be honest with y’all. My first thought upon reading the blurb was “Do you not have friends?” And I know that seems mean but come on; a good friend would have called you on that nonsense. I don’t see how one could think that the type of language used in that blurb would not receive blowback in this day and age. Early nineties? Definitely would have been the norm and no one would have batted an eye. But nowadays? There really is no excuse for ableist language.

And that apology? To say it fell flat would be a gross understatement since it wasn’t a real apology at all. It was an attempt at justification for using language that was called out for being harmful. Then to double down by saying that writing ‘diversely was a financial risk’. 

First of all, writing at all is a huge financial risk. While there are exceptions of course, most authors aren’t fortunate enough to be able to write full time. From what I’ve gathered, most at the very least have a part-time job. So, don’t use that as a reason that you don’t write diverse characters. Honestly, just say you don’t want to and move on. Or better yet, don’t comment on it at all. 

The real issue here is the language that was used. There was no need to use it because it was ableist. And all that was being asked was that the language be changed. It wasn’t calling to cancel the book all together. The author was the one who made that call. It also wasn’t calling her a bad person; it was just the language she was using was harmful. 

She chose to throw out the whole book rather than rewrite, which is a bit of an overkill. Make of that what you personally will, but for me, it’s not a good take and is more telling of her than she originally intended it to be. 

Book Riot Romance

Don’t forget to listen to this week’s episode of When in Romance where Trisha and Jess discuss the WIR Book Club Pick Written in the Stars. They also give some recommendations for other romance retellings.

Check out this write up for some of the romance books with angst in them from R. Nassor.

Isabelle also wrote this round-up of sports romances.

Around the Web in Romance

Here are some recommendations for those who were born under Pisces.

The latest season of Outlander started Sunday and if you’re a fan and looking for some read-a-likes, this list has you covered.

Here’s a quiz on if you would find true love in the Regency era. I ended up finding love! *swoon*

Recommendations

Following up the book referenced above, all my recommendations today include characters who use a wheelchair and are bad asses. Because along with everything else, I feel that was the issue with the phrasing used in the blurb that it somehow made the female main character less than. And that is never the case.

Ableism isn’t sexy at all, no matter what sub-genre of romance it is. To try to use the excuse that it fits because it’s a dark romance is just that…an excuse. So, I wanted to highlight a few books that really showcase the idea that those who use a wheelchair are not bound, hindered, or a burden. They are completely and utterly awesome.

Don’t forget you can get three free audiobooks at Audiobooks.com with a free trial!

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And that’s all I have for y’all today. I’ll be back on Monday with another round-up of romance news, ponderings, and new releases. If you’re not already following me on Twitter, I can be found posting under @PScribe801. I hope your weekend is full of reading and relaxation. Until next time!