Well, we’re at the start of another week and things are still ‘meh’ at best. And I’m being generous there with my description.
On a positive note though, it’s #JenkinsJuly as well as the anniversary of 1994’s Black Summer of Love that saw the launch of the sadly now defunct Arabesque publishing line. A lot of prolific Black romance authors got their start there and one of the things I plan to do this month is to highlight them in a few ways. So stay tuned for that.
In other things bringing me joy, I have been jamming out to Halestorm’s Back From the Dead. Gotta love an awesome rock band with a strong female lead. Plus Lizzy’s voice is FIRE!
Bookish Goods
Read Me Romance: This is My Reading Blanket by SouthernSunDesigns
Look, I know that for most of us, it’s hotter than the devil’s undercarriage right now. So, blankets may not be on the brain. However, I maintain that winter is coming in a few months and that most people keep it polar bear chilly in their house before of the aforementioned heat. Thus, a reading blanket is always a welcome addition and you can let everyone know that it’s yours. Also comes in white and light gray. $40
New Releases
The Romance Recipe by Ruby Barrett
This follow up to the author’s debut, Hot Copy, is focused on Amy, Wes’s sister, who is a chef and owner of a struggling restaurant. Her love interest is celebrity chef, Sophie, who doesn’t like life in the spotlight and just wants to focus on cooking. When an opportunity to appear on a reality show appears to them, they take it, despite Sophie’s reservations. What neither plan on is how hard it will be to keep their attraction off the cameras, especially when they find that they keep on giving into temptation.
As an aside, I read an advanced copy of this and loved it. So excited that others will soon be able to experience this book too.
Figure of Speech by Kasha Thompson
This political romance, which is *not* an across the aisle one, features White House Press Secretary Clover who is trying to keep her career on path. However, she keeps getting distracted by the very charismatic and single President Theodore. As determined as she is to not give into the attraction, he is equally determined to get her to not be so rigid in her work and love life.
For a more comprehensive list, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
Along with #JenkinsJuly, one thing that Romancelandia observes on the regular is Christmas in July. Honestly, I don’t get why July. I would think if we did a half Christmas celebration it would be in June. And I’m not just saying that because it’s my birthday month; it’s also because June is the sixth month and December is the twelfth.
Either way, that leads to today’s recommendations, which are holiday related. Cause, despite my tendency towards being more of a Grinch, I do love a good holiday romance, any time of the year.
This Christmas Rivalry by Beverly Jenkins
In this novella, Tasha inherits her grandfather’s football team, much to the dismay of General Manager Drew. The two manage to work together well enough, since they are both passionate about football and are sure they can have a civil working relationship. If only that darned attraction didn’t keep popping up… I’m not a big football fan but I am a Jenkins fan so this is right up my alley.
Sweet On You by Carla de Guzaman
A food civil war breaks out between barista and café owner Sari and her baker neighbor Gabe when he starts making coffee in an attempt to steal her customer’s away. As the feud builds up so does the sexual tension. I mentioned last week I love foodie romances. Throw in an enemies to lovers set up and I’m there.
Honey & Spice is this month’s selection for Reese Witherspoon’s book club!
As mentioned earlier, July is huge in Black romance history. Check out this Twitter thread for a quick rundown.
If you were a fan of The Donut Trap, you can hear Julie Tieu discuss her latest book, Circling Back to You this Saturday with Lacie Waldon at an event hosted by the Ripped Bodice.
Here are some enemies-to-lovers romcom movies for your viewing pleasure.
Check out Love’s Sweet Arrow’s latest recommendations video. You can also check out their latest swag from Bonfire.
Are you interested in joining us here on Book Riot? We’re looking for an Editorial Operations Associate. The position includes behind the scene tasks such as working closely with other editors and contributors, and we are committed to building an inclusive workforce and strongly encourage applications from women, individuals with disabilities, and people of color. If that sounds up your alley, you can apply by clicking here.
And that’s all for today. I’ll be back Thursday with more updates and recommendations for you. If you’re not already following me on Twitter, I can be found posting under @PScribe801. Until then, happy reading and stay hydrated!