You Can’t Rewind Time, So Be Kind

Romance Reflection

I know I tend to be quiet about the types of romances I shy away from because, for the most part, I genuinely do not like yucking someone’s yum. But, after seeing multiple authors mention their childhood buddies had found them on social media, it inspired me to write this week’s reflection.

I don’t like bully romances, especially since most aren’t a redemptive arc and the bullying is part of the romance and/or plot. I just can’t get behind that at all.

Now, I know that I’ve said I’m a fan of enemies/rivals to lovers and I stand by that statement. And that’s because there is a huge difference between someone you don’t get along with and someone who actively goes out of their way to make your life a living hell.

I had a lot of bullies in middle school. I am friends with exactly one now. The reason we’re friends is because he extended the olive branch shortly after this incident. And he he told me that he was genuinely sorry once we started talking as acquaintances and eventual friends.

Yes, bullying is an unfortunate part of life but guess what former bullies? No one owes you their forgiveness in any way, shape, or form. Saying sorry just means you recognize you were a jerk and want to make it right. However, forgiveness is contingent on the person you’re asking it of and not a guarantee.

Also, let’s just not be jerks. Seems like a good idea all around.

Book Riot Romance

Don’t forget to listen to the latest episode of When in Romance where Trisha and Jess discuss reader recommendations for monster romances, as well as announce the next book club pick, Katee Robert’s The Beast.

Here are some more fantasy romance novels.

A strong case for single POV romances.

Check out some of these sweet middle grade romance books for young book dragons in your life.

If you’re a fan of the one-bed trope, some of these books may strike your interest.

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

Around the Web in Romance

Here is the cover for Denise Williams’s September release.

If you’re eagerly looking forward to the Heartstopper series, check out this interview with the author.

Bring on the grumpy/sunshine romances!

It’s the smash or pass game, rom-com leading man edition!

If you still have Bridgerton on the brain and you’re an Anthony fan like yours truly, here is a round-up of some of his most swoon-worthy quotes from the page and screen.

This is a pretty boss bag. Feeling the tinges of jealousy over here.

Recommendations

Taking the smash or pass quiz above really made me want to watch some of those rom-coms, especially the ones where I would definitely smash the hero. I know these types of movies typically get a bad rep, much like romance novels, by snooty film types. Let’s be honest though; rom-coms aren’t going anywhere and I’m okay with it. I love them because they are, at their core, fun and sweet. They are the ocular versions of chocolate in that they release serotonin to make you happy. And we could all use a little happiness every now and then.

With that said, here are my recommendations for y’all this week.

Wallbanger by Alice Clayton

Caroline’s new apartment is perfect with the exception of her amorous and noisy neighbor and all of his paramours. When one particular night proves to be too much and she confronts him clad only in a pink nightie, the tension that has been building on her side of the wall extends to him. When fate continues to put them in each other’s path, a friendship builds between them that eventually blooms into more.

Hang the Moon by Alexandria Bellefleur

Brendon is a lover of all things romance related. Annie, his older sister’s best friend, believes herself to be more of a realist. When he ends up being her last-minute tour guide in Seattle while they wait for said sister to return, he uses this as an opportunity to woo her to the side of romance. As they hang out more they begin to develop real feelings for one another. But Annie is about to move across the pond to her new job, even if she has lukewarm feelings about it. Will she stay on that path or take a chance on romance?

The Shaadi Set-Up by Lillie Vale

Six years after having her heart broken by her high-school sweetheart, Rita’s ex Milan enters her life needing her restoration expertise on a house he plans to flip. She begrudgingly agrees to help and, to appease her second-chance loving mother and current boyfriend, takes a Desi matchmaking test to show she’s with the right man. But, when the results reveal Milan as her perfect match, she begins to rethink her stance on second chances.

And that’s all I have for you today. I hope that your weekend is a wonderful relaxing one, full of whatever hobby you decide to embrace. I’ll be back on Monday with more romance news, reflections, and new releases. If you’re not already, give me a follow over on Twitter under @PScribe801. Happy reading!