I’m back, and I’ve missed you. My short break turned out to be much longer than I expected—it’s been over three years since my last newsletter. A lot has happened since then. I’ve been working with some wonderful romance authors, helping them publish, promote, and sell their German translations. But I’ve also been thinking about you and wanting to reconnect. So, instead of waiting for the perfect time and energy, I’m just going to dive back in.

This newsletter might look a bit different moving forward. I’m no longer on Twitter, so the format will change, and I won’t be sending updates on a regular schedule—at least not weekly. But I’m excited to share my discoveries with you: news, announcements, debut authors, new-to-me authors, and whatever else catches my eyes and ears (I’m all about audiobooks these days). And of course, I’ll include some pictures of my new(ish) roommate, Lilija, a former street cat from St. Petersburg.

I’ve also renamed the newsletter to “Scouting Romance.” I think it perfectly captures what I’m up to. Did you know I used to be a literary scout? So, it’s an old name with a new twist.

I hope you’re doing well. If you have any recent romance reads or listens that you’ve enjoyed, feel free to hit reply and share—I’d love to hear from you. ❤️

In this first issue of "Scouting Romance," I’ve included a roundup of romance news articles I’ve come across online recently, along with a picture introduction to Lilija. That’s plenty to start with and should keep you informed and entertained until the next email from me.

Warmly,
Kris Alice

In the Media

• From Neue Zürcher Zeitung: Junge Frau verfällt Bad Boy, ohne sich an ihn aufzugeben – der grosse Liebesroman lebt weiter auf Tiktok by Christine Lötscher VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New Indian Express: The billion-dollar genre of naughty books by VR Ferose VIEW ARTICLE

• From Defector: The New Trend In Book Covers Is Old-Timey Animals by Patrick Redford VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Post: Let me tell you a (horny) story: The rise in audio erotica by Melody Thomas VIEW ARTICLE

• From USA Today: How cozy fantasy books took off by offering high stakes with a happy ending by Clare Mulroy VIEW ARTICLE

• From TIME: Romance Novels Are Literature by Casey McQuiston VIEW ARTICLE

• From People: Meet the Model Who's On 600+ Romance Book Covers — And Loves Reading Them, Too (Exclusive) by Lizz Schumer VIEW ARTICLE

• From Fashion Journal: Despite being asexual, I still love a smutty romance book by ALLIE DAISY KING VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Conversation: Explicit novel Icebreaker is under fire for its ‘misleading’ cover. A book designer explains – and reveals how covers work by Jenny Grigg VIEW ARTICLE

• From Edinburgh Live: Edinburgh woman ploughs savings into opening 'dream' romance book shop by Cara Blackhall VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New Yorker: Are Bookstores Just a Waste of Space? by Louis Menand VIEW ARTICLE

• From Slate: They’re Not Looking For a Man in Finance by Jackie Snow VIEW ARTICLE

• From KSMU: Audiobooks are doing better than ever. Just ask Harper Collins by Andrew Limbong VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New York Times: A 481-year age difference? For some readers, that’s hot by Valeriya Safronova VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Guardian: My weeks of reading hornily: steamy book sales have doubled – and I soon found out why by Zoe Williams VIEW ARTICLE

• From Literary Hub: Elle Everhart and Ellie Palmer on the Rise of Romance by Whitney Terrell and V.V. Ganeshananthan VIEW ARTICLE

• From RNZ: Gen Z loves smut. NZ authors are cashing in by Serena Solomon VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishers Weekly: What 'Bridgerton' Reveals About the Future of Romantasy by J. Elle VIEW ARTICLE

A Happy Cat's Life in Pictures

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share Scouting Romance if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share Scouting Romance

I will miss you lots! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Walrus: Adding Colour to the Romance Genre by Zeahaa Rehman VIEW ARTICLE

• From Khaleej Times: Mills & Boons: An affair to remember by Lekha Menon VIEW ARTICLE

• From Study Breaks: 5 Women Of Color That Are Pushing Boundaries In Romance Literature by Arianna Taylor VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishers Weekly: When Publishers Try Their Hands at Cards by John Maher VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Washington Post: TV's growth is a boon for 'diverse voices' among novelists by Lynn Elber VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Carina Press is releasing Kris Ripper’s Book Boyfriend. MORE

• Putnam bought the rights for Lillie Vale’s next next romcom, The Decoy Girlfriend. MORE

• Berkley is publishing a collection of linked contemporary romance novellas by Denise Williams. MORE

• Tule Publishing bought the rights to Mia Heintzelman’s Love & Games series. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read The One by John Marrs. Someone mentioned the Netflix series and I realized I had the book it is based on on my reader. Didn’t know what I was getting myself into and didn’t expect any romance stories. Was pleasantly surprised when I got several. I enjoyed reading the book very much, loved the concept, the short chapters, the surprises, the questions raised, and the tender moments mixed with the can’t-believe-what-I’m-reading scenes. Not sure I will watch the TV series. I’m kind of worried it won’t measure up.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters

  Can’t remember how I first heard about the book, but the tagline, Opposites attract in this playful and laugh-out-loud rom-com from Lambda Award finalist Karelia Stetz-Waters, and the book description had me one-click it.

• Untitled (Skybriar, #1) by Talia Hibbert

  It doesn’t even have a title yet, and I’m already all over the upcoming release by one of my current favorite authors. It’s a Pride & Prejudice inspired romcom and related to the The Brown Sisters series.

First Time

I’m reading The Last Watch by J.S. Dewes. I’m in a science fiction mood right now and this is a fast-paced and edge-of-your-seat read. It’s not a romance novel, but it has romance potential. Especially, as it is an ongoing series.

Favorite Cover

Sing Anyway by Anita Kelly | Cover artist: Em Roberts

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark

• Every Body Shines: Sixteen Stories About Living Fabulously Fat edited by Cassandra Newbould

• Here With Me by Samantha Young

Free Books

Found the following e-books for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Her Big City Neighbor by Jackie Lau

• Three To Love by Rebel Carter

• Drive Me Wild by Melanie Harlow

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I put up some new shelves. For my DVDs. And of course, now that I can actually see what I own, I had to rewatch some of my favorites. Like Silver Linings Playbook.

You won’t hear from me next Wednesday, I have to finish a project that will take up most of my time, but I'll be back the week after.

I hope you enjoy this week’s links and news! ❤️

In the Media

• From Words without Borders: The Thrill of Reading Obliviously by J. R. Ramakrishnan VIEW ARTICLE

• From Forward: Drop everything and read this romance novel about Reform Judaism by Irene Katz Connelly VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Berkley bought the rights to Liana De La Rosa’s Latinx Victorian romance series. MORE

• Grand Central bought the rights to Lucy Score’s first non-indie title. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’m reading The Widow of Rose House by Diana Biller. I’ve had the book on my TBR list for months. I added it because of Nick, one of my favorite bloggers, who I follow on Twitter. She’s been raving about the book when she read it and is now doing the same with the author’s next book, The Brightest Star in Paris.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• The Astronaut and the Star by Jen Comfort

  I love the description of the book:

  THE ASTRONAUT & THE STAR is a contemporary, romantic comedy, gender-flipped take on the classic TV show I Dream of Jeannie, in which two polar opposites—a grumpy, gothy female astronaut and an actor who is the physical embodiment of cheerful chaos—are thrown together in close quarters when a movie studio requests a month-long “immersive” NASA astronaut training for their lead star.

• A Delicious Dilemma by Sera Taíno

  I follow the author on Twitter and have been waiting for the announcement of her debut novel, a Harlequin Special Edition release.

First Time

I read Sweethand by N.G. Peltier. If I’m honest, if it hadn’t been for the cover by my favorite artist, Leni Kauffman, I wouldn’t have read the book so soon after its release. And I would have so missed out. And not only because it’s a debut title and has a very unusual (to me) setting, Trinidad, but also for the characters’ chosen careers: She’s a baker and he’s in the music business. Yup, two industries I’m familiar with. And I enjoyed the author’s take on them. I keep saying that I’m not in the market for enemies-to-lovers stories, but every single one I’m reading… I’m loving. Like this one.

Favorite Cover

Jay's Gay Agenda by Jason June | Cover artist: Ricardo Bessa | Cover designer: David DeWitt

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• The Road to Rose Bend by Naima Simone

• Heart on a Leash by Alanna Martin

• The Marriage Mistake by Jess Fox

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Happy Trail by Daisy Prescott

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

Does that happen to you? Do you recognize yourself or your circumstances in the characters and stories you read? Is that something you look for?

I hope you enjoy this week’s links and recommendations.

Happy reading! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Washington Post: How the romance genre found its happily ever after by Angela Haupt VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Daily Utah Chronicle: How Reading More Romance Novels Changed the Way I Think About Love (For Good) by Jacqueline Mumford VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishers Weekly: Disney Reimagines Its Book Business by Jim Milliot VIEW ARTICLE

• From Boing Boing: Why it's harder for neurodivergent people to break into publishing by Thom Dunn VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books and movies? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Tor bought the rights to Foz Meadows’ LGBTQ+ fantasy romance. MORE

• Tule will publish Season Vining’s LGBTQ+ rom-com. MORE

• Muse Entertainment optioned Real Men Knit by Kwana Jackson. MORE

• Tantor Media bought the audio rights to Jackie Lau’s Cider Bar Sisters series. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read The Intimacy Experiment by Rosie Danan. I knew I wanted to read the follow-up to The Roommate as soon as it was announced. But it became even more important when I read Stacey Agdern’s reaction to it. And reading the story I learned that I’m not an outsider looking in. I found a missing piece to a puzzle I hadn’t looked at in a while. The book is issue-driven but also a very sexy read, with a take-charge former porn actress and a progressive rabbi falling for each other. Recommended.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• The Bones of Ruin by Sarah Raughley

  I first fell in love with the cover, then with the book description, but it is the author’s bio that I love best. She’s into RPGs!

  

• The Layover by Lacie Waldon

  I added the book because of this author’s tweet and her review on Goodreads:

First Time

I read Enemies With Benefits by Roxie Noir. I heard about this book in a Facebook group, and as I had it already on my reader… Enemies-to-lovers is not one of my favorite tropes. At least not at the moment. Luckily, the author didn’t write about enemies. They are more like competitors for various prizes and awards. Thus reading about their ongoing rivalry and their growing friendship was fun. And relating to the characters’ backstory, the loss of dreams, the wanderlust, and the search for a place to call your own, heightened my enjoyment.

Favorite Cover

Tahira in Bloom by Farah Heron | Cover artist: Christina Chung | Cover designer: Amanda Hudson

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Black Moon Rising by Mila Nicks

• Betting on a Duke’s Heart by Royaline Sing

• The Devil Comes Courting by Courtney Milan

Free Book

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Enemies With Benefits by Roxie Noir  

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

However, writing to you isn’t scary. It’s still revealing, but I know that you are interested, that you want me to share my love for romance novels. I mean, why else would you invite me into your inbox? Thank you for that. And thank you for making me feel welcome!

How about you, do you talk about the books you read? With friends? Your family? A book club?

I hope you are staying safe and healthy! ❤️

In the Media

• From Entertainment Weekly: Romancing the Screen: Could a Bridgerton effect give the romance genre a Hollywood ending? by Maureen Lee Lenker VIEW ARTICLE

• From Variety: Kennedy Ryan’s ‘Hoops,’ ‘All the King’s Men’ Acquired by Traveling Picture Show Company (EXCLUSIVE) by Brent Lang VIEW ARTICLE

• From Deadline: ‘The Kiss Quotient’: Savion Einstein Adapting Helen Hoang Romance Novel, Kristin Burr Boards As Producer by Anthony D'Alessandro VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Bookseller: Publisher catalogues show representation on the rise but patchy by Heather Marks VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Berkley bought the rights to Dylann Crush’s new series. MORE

• Griffin will publish Meryl Wilsner’s next book. MORE

• Jane Igharo’s second chance novel will be published by Berkley. MORE

• Berkley bought the rights to Alicia Thompson’s romcom, Love in the Time of Serial Killers. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle. I liked the author’s debut release, You Deserve Each Other, and kind of knew that I wouldn’t wait long to read her latest novel. Twitter buzz was strong for this book and I didn’t resist. I’m not giving it 5 stars (it’s very rare I do), but I enjoyed the sweet, delightful, slow-burn romance. I adore the author’s use of tropes and I’m a fan of her unique voice. Very much looking forward to the next book.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Fool Me Twice at Christmas by Camilla Isley

  I read the tagline and I knew, this is the book for me. And the blurb is even better. Fake relationship + second chance + Christmas = ❤️.

• The Checklist by Addie Woolridge

  It’s a debut release. That’s enough for me to wish-list a book. Yes, I’m that eager to discover a new author. The blurb sounds fun, promising a diverse cast, and the cover is bright and cheerful. Hoping for it to be an entertaining summer read.

First Time

I read The Duke Undone by Joanna Lowell. I know, I’m repeating myself, but I can’t help it: I love the current historical romance releases. I’m just having so much fun with them. And this book is no exception. Another memorable read, with captivating characters, a wonderful sense of location, and plenty of well-researched details to keep me anchored to the era the story is set in. It has darker undertones, and some of it wasn’t easy to read, but it’s also charming and empowering. And I can’t wait for Book 2 in the series, The Runaway Duchess.

Favorite Cover

Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau | Cover artist: Vi-An Nguyen

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Hana Khan Carries on by Uzma Jalaluddin

• Bombshells by Sarina Bowen

• The Companion by E.E. Ottoman

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway  

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I spent my newfound spare time watching The Houseboat on Netflix, an entertaining documentary about a musician and a YouTuber remodeling a rundown house boat - just what I needed - and of course in reading all the books. Okay, not all of them. But I enjoyed catching up with a couple series by two of my current favorite authors, Rebekah Weatherspoon and Katee Robert. What about you, did you get any reading done?

I hope you enjoy this week’s issue of the newsletter. Stay healthy and keep safe! ❤️

In the Media

• From Toronto Star: Diss romance all you like — ‘I choose to write happy, funny stories as a light against the darkness’ by Uzma Jalaluddin VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New York Times: How Crying on TikTok Sells Books by Elizabeth A. Harris VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Booklist Reader: Short Story Dispensers Add a Fresh Twist to Storytelling by Marci Merola VIEW ARTICLE

• From Deadline: MRC Film Expands With Romance Label Led By Producer Elizabeth Cantillon by Anthony D'Alessandro VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Mary Sue: How Bridgerton’s Casting “Shake Up” Reminds Us That Romance Is About the Happily Ever After by Princess Weekes VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Entangled Publishing bought the rights to Kilby Blades’ romantic comedy featuring a geeky heroine and a hot architect. MORE

• Atria Books will publish Martha Waters’ next Regency rom-com. MORE

• Headline Eternal bought the rights to Cara Bastone’s series Love Lines. MORE

• Audio rights for Charish Reid’s (Trust) Falling For You sold to Tantor Audio. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read White Whiskey Bargain by Jodie Slaughter. Loved it. Rival moonshiners - joined in a marriage of convenience - sharing a hotel room with only one bed. Sigh. The perfect combination of tropes. The story also features fighting a bad guy, much hotness, wonderful female relationships, and a cinnamon hero.

It’s the book that first put the author on my radar. Mainly because it got recommended by my go-to bloggers and favorite authors. Like Charish Reid.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• And They Lived Happily Ever After by Therese Beharrie

  A contemporary romance with magical elements, featuring a romance novelist and the guy of her dreams. By a new-to-me author that I’ve been wanting to read for a long time. And I’m kind of hoping that the story will be set in South Africa. It’s where the author is from.

• First Love, Take Two by Sajni Patel

  I looked at the cover, read the book description, and added the book. Second chance romance, roommates, forced proximity. Perfect. See for yourself:

  Preeti Patel only has room in her life for family, friends, and her career as a doctor. So when her ex-boyfriend—and man she never forgot—turns up as her new roommate, she's determined to go about her life as if he's not even there. But he's impossible to avoid in the one-bedroom apartment, and the proximity has Preeti remembering all the ways she and Daniel were a perfect fit. But her family doesn't approve of him, and for a woman who's always done what her family has asked, choosing love—again—will be the hardest choice she ever has to make.

First Time

I read Throwing Stones by Avery Cockburn. Yesterday the inaugural International Asexuality Day took place. A good time to pick a book with a hero on the asexual spectrum. I went into the story not knowing anything about curling, but I’m now tempted to look up videos on YouTube. It’s a wonderful read with loveable characters and a supporting cast that I will definitely check out in Must Love Christmas and the connecting series Glasgow Lads.

Favorite Cover

What the Bad Wolf Wants by Dahlia Rose | Cover artist: Erin Dameron-Hill

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• The Duke Undone by Joanna Lowell

• The Intimacy Experiment by Rosie Danan

• Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper 

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I’m in a very good mood today. I’m seeing my mom and my best friend later this week. Yes, I will get tested first.

It’s also the start of my Spring break. For you that means: nothing from me in your inbox for the next three weeks. You’ll hear from me again on April 7. For me that means: a long list of books I want to read.

Happy Spring Equinox! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Hollywood Reporter: Rebekah Weatherspoon’s 'Cowboys of California' Trilogy Optioned for TV (Exclusive) by Lexy Perez VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Mary Sue: Village Scandalized by Smutty Novels Left in Telephone Box Library by Princess Weekes VIEW ARTICLE

• From Scary Mommy: Romance Novels Are Helping My Sex Drive During This Pandemic by Elisha Beach VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishing Perspectives: The US-Based Lambda Literary Awards Program Names Its 2021 Finalists by Porter Anderson VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Berkley will release Claire Kann’s romance about a Black, ace woman in love with her best friend. MORE

• Talia Hibbert is writing her first YA romance for Joy Revolution. MORE

• Audible bought the rights to Jack Harbon’s romance about two rival podcast hosts. MORE

• TJ Alexander signed with Emily Bestler Books for their debut release, an #OwnVoices LGBTQ+ rom-com. MORE

• K.D. Casey’s debut, a LGBTQ+ baseball romance, will be published by Carina Press. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert. I’m cheating a little. I didn’t need the rave reviews on Twitter to pick it up. I’m a huge fan of the author and I adored the book. Eve’s story comes with the enemies-to-friends-to-lovers trope and is charming, tender, cute, and quirky. The swoony declarations of admiration, respect, and love gave me all the feels.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• How To Marry Keanu Reeves In 90 Days by K.M. Jackson

  One look at the cover and the title and I was sold. It’s well-known how big a Keanu fan the author is. This is going to be so much fun.

  

• Betting on a Duke’s Heart by Royaline Sing

  It’s a historical romance. A debut release. Right now, that is all it takes for me to wishlist a book. And it has a pretty cover and intriguing book description.

First Time

I’m reading A Rogue to Remember by Emily Sullivan. When I was looking for an armchair travel romance, one that is not set in the US or the UK, I came across this debut release. It’s set in Italy and not just in one place. Road trip! And it has so many great tropes: childhood friends, enemies to lovers, only one bed, fake relationship. Loving it. I’m at 30% and can’t wait to continue later today. Happy to recommend another wonderful historical romance debut.

Favorite Cover

All the Feels by Olivia Dade | Cover artist: Leni Kauffman

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• The Dating Plan by Sara Desai

• Blind Tiger by Jordan L. Hawk

• Featherbed by Annabeth Albert

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Second Nature by Jae

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I had a cold week. A very cold week. My heater broke on Friday and didn’t get fixed until yesterday.

I kept warm by drinking lots of tea, staying in bed longer, and wearing gloves around the house. Not much else happened.

Oh, I just realized that the newsletter is six month old. Getting emotional here. Thanks so much for subscribing to it, for sharing and talking about the latest issue, and most of all for reaching out to me. I love hearing from you!

Keep safe, stay healthy and let me know about your favorite romance reads. ❤️

In the Media

• From Publishers Weekly: Diversity in Romance Books Still Lags by Bea and Leah Koch VIEW ARTICLE

• From Wired: The Rise of Unapologetically Erotic LGBTQ+ Games by Mark Hill VIEW ARTICLE

• From BBC: World Book Day: Is Covid lockdown giving reading a boost? by Hannah Billingsley-Dadd VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Heather Novak signed a two book deal with Tule Publishing for her LGBTQ+ paranormal romance series. MORE

• In October Berkley is releasing Sonya Lalli’s holiday romance that celebrates both Diwali and Christmas. MORE

• Alyssa Cole is writing a YA fantasy romance graphic novel for HarperCollins. MORE

• Griffin bought the rights to Erin Hahn’s romance about two former childhood costars reuniting for a home renovation TV show. MORE

• Alisha Rai signed a two-book deal with Avon. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read (Trust) Falling For You by Charish Reid. As soon as the author sent out her ARCs the feedback I came across had been positive. And rightly so. I had a blast reading this novella. Loved the setting of a week-long team-building retreat, the forced proximity, the starchy hero, the fun-loving heroine, and the enemies-to-friends-to-lovers trope.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Either Way Up by Jodie Slaughter

  I’m still fairly new to the author, but when I saw that her upcoming book is compared to Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert, there was no holding me back, I simply had to add it to my list.

• A Brush with Love by Mazey Eddings

  It’s a debut release by a neurodiverse writer, featuring a heroine with mental illness. And the author’s tagline is Doing the Impossible: Making Dentistry Sexy. Yes, I’m very intrigued.

First Time

I’m reading Dark Wizard by Jeffe Kennedy. Nalini Singh’s tweet made me curious. Loving the book! I find it unbelievable that it is my first by the author. But I did check my records and her name is not in them. Her extensive backlist is a little daunting - and I’m not sure I’m brave enough to go there - but I’m definitely picking up the next book in the Bonds of Magic series.

Favorite Cover

The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid | Cover artist: Russell Cobb

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert

• The Heiress Hunt by Joanna Shupe

• A Rogue to Remember by Emily Sullivan

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

Meow (Catnip Assassins Book 1) by Skye MacKinnon  

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

It’s March! Spring is around the corner and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve been on a couple of walks already. No flowers yet, but I did see the first signs of green.

The last two weeks were very busy, but I still managed to read several books. Most of them by new-to-me authors but also one by Jackie Lau. I adored Her Pretend Christmas Date. It’s my new favorite book by her.

I’m sorry I missed telling you about last week’s romance releases. One title I have to tell you about, even if I’m a week late, is Paladin's Strength by T. Kingfisher. I will be reading the book sooner rather than later. How about you? Do you have a current release that you can’t wait to read?

Keep safe, stay healthy, and enjoy the first days of Spring! ❤️

In the Media

• From Elle: Romance Novels Are The Antidote To Pandemic Life by Marisa Meltzer VIEW ARTICLE

• From Refinery29: BookTok Is The Last Wholesome Place On The Internet by Alicia Lansom VIEW ARTICLE

• From Intelligencer: Publishing’s New Power Club by Lila Shapiro VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Jodie Slaughter is releasing a new novella next week. MORE

• Synithia Williams has signed a three-book deal with Harlequin Special Edition. MORE

• Berkley has bought the rights to four books by Jaci Burton. MORE

• Sourcebooks is publishing two more books in Alexis Hall’s Boyfriend Material universe. MORE

• Atria Books is publishing Akwaeke Emezi’s romance debut. MORE

• Katee Robert is releasing the next book in her Touch of Taboo series later this month. MORE

• City Owl Press has bought the rights to Corrina Lawson’s romantic mystery set in 1980s New York City. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’m reading The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon. I was in the mood for something fun. So, when I came across the tweet by Julie Tieu I knew I had found my next book. And I’m loving it so far. It might just become my first five-star read of 2021.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

  After finishing and enjoying the author’s latest release I wanted more. I can’t wait to read about a fun-loving socialite and the gruff fisherman she butts heads with.

• An Acquired Taste by Kelly Cain

  I find cooking show romance titles irresistible. And this one is by a new-to-me author.

• The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer

  Of course I had to add it. It’s a Hanukkah romance. And the book description is everything. Check it out here.

First Time

I read Ego Trip by Tabatha Kiss. I came across a review for it on the blog Jeeves Reads Romance. It’s this line that had me one-click:

So much bantery goodness, so much chemistry, and all of these little lines that had me cracking up.

And I agree. It’s a wonderful read for banter. Low on drama and with likable characters. My first book by the author, but I’m already looking at her long (Yay!) backlist.

Favorite Cover

It All Comes Back To You by Farah Naz Rishi | Cover artist: Zahra Fatimah

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron

• Forever Never by Lucy Score

• Mourning Wood by Heather M. Orgeron

• Sweetheart by Sarah Mayberry

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

To Steal A Heart by K. C. Bateman

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

Prepare yourself for a long newsletter. It’s February and thus the time for romance genre articles. And then there are, of course, the awesome book announcements. But, read slowly. The next issue is not out until the first week of March.

I’m away from my computer for most of next week. Should you come across a fun article or book-related news you feel I should know about, I’d love for you to reach out to me.

I hope you’re staying warm, safe, and healthy. ❤️

In the Media

• From Cosmopolitan: I Can’t Believe People Are Still Questioning if Romance Novels Are “Real Books” by Leah Johnson VIEW ARTICLE

• From Mirage News: Romantic fiction place to go for love lessons by Dr Jodi McAlister VIEW ARTICLE

• From Pajiba: So, You Want To Read a Romance Novel For the First Time This Valentine’s Day? Here’s Our Genre Primer by Kayleigh Donaldson VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Kit: The Bodice-Ripper Read is Enjoying a Renaissance by Sarah Laing VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Washington Post: Stop dismissing love stories. They’re exactly what we need to survive covid-19. by Alyssa Rosenberg VIEW ARTICLE

• From UDaily: Rethinking Romance Novels by Diane Stopyra VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Young Folks: Talia Hibbert shares Zafir’s romance novel recommendations from ‘Take a Hint, Dani Brown’ by Brianna Robinson VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Chronicle Herald: Harlequin romance covers get spicier, but still not hot enough to make your kids blush, according to new Halifax study by Chris Lambie VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Argonaut: University of Idaho Faculty discuss romance novels by Sierra Pesnell VIEW ARTICLE

• From Deadline: Rom Com Pictures Launches; Production Company To Focus On Inclusive Romance Movies by Dino-Ray Ramos VIEW ARTICLE

• From Nerdist: Why Fanfiction Does Romance Better Than Hollywood by Shelly Jay VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Guardian: Stephen Collins Bridgerton – cartoon VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Sourcebooks bought the rights to a new series by KJ Charles. MORE

• Denise Williams is staying with Berkley for her next two books. MORE

• LaQuette is joining Harlequin Desire to contribute to one of their continuity series. MORE

• Carina Press bought the rights to Rien Gray’s F/F paranormal romance. MORE

• Shannon Stacey has a new series with Harlequin Special Edition. MORE

• Anna Collins’s rom-com about a revenge-bent interior designer will be published by Graydon House. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read The Sweetest Fix by Tessa Bailey. Carly’s tweet was all it took for me to one-click the book. And I didn’t regret it. It’s a quick and fun read with plenty of sweets, Broadway melodies, and sexy times. And of course I loved the setting. Did you know I used to work at a very popular and well-known bakery in New York? The stories I could tell…

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Donut Fall in Love by Jackie Lau

  I’m a fan of culinary themed romance novels. And Jackie Lau always delivers when it comes to writing about food.

• Homecoming King by Penny Reid

  A new series with new characters and new setting by one of my favorite authors? Yeah, I’m all over it. And reading the book’s description I’m getting a fake-relationship vibe. A trope I can’t get enough of. Is it November yet?

Favorite Cover

Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin | Cover designer: Rita Frangie | Cover artist: Farjana Yasmin

First Time

I’m reading A Lady's Formula for Love by Elizabeth Everett. I agree with Jennifer: All the love. The characters, the suspense plot, the hero, and especially the heroine. It’s a good time for historicals. A great time for historical romance debuts!

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• (Trust) Falling For You by Charish Reid

• Like You Love Me by Adriana Locke

• Slapshot by Rebecca Jenshak

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

Don't Go Stealing My Heart by Kelly Siskind

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter, Facebook and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

This might come as a surprise: I’m not a fan of romance movies. I used to be - and I’m dating myself here - in the 80s and 90s. But since then I’ve been mostly disappointed in what was on offer and as a result I stopped looking. Books and my own imagination were so much more rewarding. But I haven’t given up on them completely. And sometimes I do discover a new favorite. A year ago it was Emma. Does that one count?

I’m ready to try again, but I don’t know where to start. Do you have a favorite romance movie? A TV show you’d be happy to recommend? Something more current than a classic from the last century? I’d love to hear about it.

I hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter issue. I found several articles but sadly only one book announcement (but it is a good one).

Keep safe & stay healthy! ❤️

In the Media

• From Vulture: Your Next Romance Read, Based on Your Favorite Rom-com by Carly Lane VIEW ARTICLE

• From Capilano Courier: There is More to Romance Than Meets the Eye by Steph Bliss VIEW ARTICLE

• From CNN: Netflix's 'Bridgerton' is leading a romance novel renaissance by AJ Willingham VIEW ARTICLE

• From Time: ‘We Know Our Stories Matter.’ Brit Bennett, Jasmine Guillory and Jacqueline Woodson Discuss the Importance of Fiction by Rebecca Carroll VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Kansas City Star: In defense of Regency romance novels, she has only two words: Thanks, ‘Bridgerton’ by Sherry Kuehl VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Guardian: It’s time to talk more about kink – and take the shame away from it by VIEW ARTICLE

• From BookPage: Romance: February 2021 by Christie Ridgway VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Big Bad Wolf by Suleikha Snyder. I had the book already on my reader, but it was Amy Jo Cousins’ tweet that made me pick it up sooner rather than later. And I fully agree with her. It’s fun, fast-paced, political, and as expected plenty sexy. Loved the diverse cast and can’t wait to hang out with them again.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• When We're Thirty by Casey Dembowski

  A marriage of convenience. One of my favorite tropes. And it comes with the tropes friends to lovers and fake relationship. Very much looking forward to this debut release.

• Love, Lists, and Fancy Ships by Sarah Grunder Ruiz

  It’s the author’s first book and I like the title. The blurb mentions grief too often for my current reading tastes, but it also mentions kissing a stranger. And the author’s persona on her Instagram account is just so nice that I want to see what her characters are like.

• The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas

  Sil mentioned the book yesterday in a very enthusiastic tweet. When I looked it up on Goodreads, I came across the best tagline. I didn’t even read further before I added the title to my list.

  A wedding. A trip to Spain. The most infuriating man. And three days of pretending. Or in other words, a plan that will never work.

First Time

I’m reading The Cowgirl's Surprise Match by Nina Crespo. I’ve been meaning to read the author for a while and I have bought several of her books. Usually, I prefer to read a series in order, but this book jumped the line for several reasons: a heroine in her 30s, a younger hero, a fake relationship. And I’m loving it so far. Making a note to myself: Schedule in a category romance binge.

Favorite Cover

Devil in Disguise by Lisa Kleypas | Publisher: Avon

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins

• Hit Me With Your Best Scot by Suzanne Enoch

• A Lady's Formula for Love by Elizabeth Everett

• Gray Hair Don't Care by Karen Booth

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Truth or Beard by Penny Reid

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I feel bad for not writing a newsletter last week, but I have a good excuse: I was allowed to visit my mom and spent several days in Berlin, away from my computer.

Travelling to Berlin means I get some uninterrupted reading time on the train. Last week I read and loved Vi Keeland’s latest release, The Invitation, and finally picked up Three Stupid Weddings by Ann Gallagher, a sweet MM romance featuring two asexual characters.

Because I left you hanging last week, you’re getting a slightly longer newsletter than usual. I have romance news and announcements to share. Hope you enjoy.

Keep safe & stay healthy! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Guardian: What trashy novels taught me about life by Sarah Hughes VIEW ARTICLE

• From BBC Culture: What Jane Austen can teach us about resilience by Heloise Wood VIEW ARTICLE

• From Book Riot: READERS FELL IN LOVE WITH THESE TOP ROMANCE BOOKS ON AMAZON by Kelly Jensen VIEW ARTICLE

• From Locus Magazine: 2021 Romantic Novel Awards Shortlists VIEW ARTICLE

• From InsideHook: It’s Time for Men to Start Reading More Erotica by Kayla Kibbe VIEW ARTICLE

• From Entertainment Weekly: Nora Roberts defends Alyssa Milano's casting in adaptation of Brazen Virtue by Maureen Lee Lenker VIEW ARTICLE

• From WhatToWatch: 'Bridgerton's success shows Hollywood should be looking to romance for TV adaptation by Carly Lane VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Avon bought the rights to a new cowboy romance series by Addison Fox. MORE

• Chencia C. Higgins’s romance about two women thrown together on a realty show will be published by Carina Press. MORE

• Gallery Books bought the rights to two more books by Christina Lauren. MORE

• Sarah Morgenthaler new romcom series will be published by Sourcebooks. MORE

• Kensington bought the rights to Kate Clayborn’s Likely Story. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Haven by Rebekah Weatherspoon. I’m still fairly new to the author and didn’t know what to read next. It was an old tweet by a blogger I follow that gave me the much needed push. And am I glad that I listen to her. The story is heavy but also hopeful. And cute. And sexy. Can’t wait to read the rest of the series.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly

  It’s a debut release, a romcom featuring a cast of queer characters, and the setting is a cooking show. Of course I had to add it.

• Sweetheart by Sarah Mayberry

  This it the first book in a series set in Sarina Bowen’s world of True North. And it is written by a favorite author of mine. Very much looking forward to it.

• Lady August by Becky Michaels

  A historical by a new-to-me author with a cover by my favorite artist, Leni Kauffman.

  

First Time

I read Just a Heartbeat Away by Cara Bastone. I was in the mood for a slow burn romance and a kind hero. And this book gave me what I needed. So much yearning, all the feels, and a kid I adored. Highly recommended!

Favorite Cover

The Hellion's Waltz by Olivia Waite | Publisher: Avon Impulse

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Caught Looking by Adriana Herrera

• Much Ado About You by Samantha Young

• Winter’s Orbit by Everina Maxwell

• Still Standing by Kristen Ashley

• The Cowgirl's Surprise Match by Nina Crespo

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• The Fall by May Archer

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I’m a day late with the newsletter. But yesterday was reserved for watching the news and President Biden's inauguration. Did you feel Amanda Gorman’s poem as much as I did?

I cry every time I listen to it. Words are powerful. And beautiful.

I hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter issue.

Keep safe & stay healthy! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Guardian: 'There's an art to it': with one sold every 10 seconds, what's Mills & Boon's secret? by Mark Brown VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Times: Only literary snobs write off romantic fiction by India Knight VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Swaddle: With Expiring Copyrights, Marginalized Communities Can Rewrite Fiction History by Satviki Sanjay VIEW ARTICLE

• From Deadline: Netflix Lands Adaptation Of YA Graphic Novel ‘Heartstopper’; ‘Doctor Who’s Euros Lyn To Direct See-Saw-Produced Series by Peter White VIEW ARTICLE

• From Deadline: Amazon Studios, DiNovi Pictures Poised To Make Jane Austen An Onscreen Heroine; Land Rachel Givney’s ‘Jane In Love’ For Film by Mike Fleming Jr VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Montlake bought the first two books in Naima Simone’s Burned Inc series. MORE

• Mona Shroff’s book about a divorced couple faking a relationship will be published by Harlequin Special Edition. MORE

• Alexis Hall has confirmed that the first book in his queer historical romance duology will be released later this year. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Whiteout by Adriana Anders. I bought the book because of its setting. It’s not often I see a romance set in Antarctica. And yet the e-book languished on my reader for months. So glad the title got nominated for The Swoon Awards and put it back on my radar. I’m sure the second book in the series won’t suffer the same fate. So need to find out what happens next.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

  It’s a debut release with an irresistible tagline:

  When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman's carefully calculated theories on love into chaos.

• Not Your Average Hot Guy by Gwenda Bond

  A new-to-me author. And the book’s description is using all the right words: escape room, Satanic cult, handsome demon in a leather jacket, apocalypse. I’m sold!

First Time

I read The Roommate by Rosie Danan. The roommate trope! It’s a favorite. And it’s a debut release. First I wasn’t sure about the adult entertainment plot, but it worked. Loved the chemistry between the two main characters. So hot, and cute, and funny. One of my favorite characters in this book was the hero’s ex. I’m thrilled that her story, The Intimacy Experiment, is out soon (April 2021).

Favorite Cover

The Companion by E.E. Ottoman | Cover artist: Viv Tanner

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Acting Up by Adele Buck

• Love Code by Ann Aguirre

• Shipped by Angie Hockman

• The Invitation by Vi Keeland

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

London Royal by Nana Malone

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I got tested on Monday. I wanted to visit my mom and needed to make sure not to endanger her. Made me think about how much I appreciate content warnings at the front of books. They show me the author cares about my wellbeing. That they are aware of the damage they can cause and are willing to put measures in place to prevent any harm to their readers.

This week I needed to stay clear of darkness and drama. I looked for joy and laughter instead.

I hope you are keeping safe, are wearing a mask, and staying at home (if you can). And I hope you are surrounded by books.

Happy reading! ❤️

In the Media

• From The Washington Post: How ‘Bridgerton’ flipped the script on ‘The Duke and I’ by Vanessa Riley VIEW ARTICLE

• From npr: Author Alyssa Cole Talks Romance And Politics VIEW ARTICLE

• From New York Post: Netflix hit ‘Bridgerton’ reveals that romance novels sparkle on-screen by Lauren Sarner VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Forever is publishing a new series by Kennedy Ryan. MORE

• N.G. Peltier has found a UK publisher for her upcoming debut release. MORE

• Mills & Boon is publishing a historical romance by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read A Duke in Shining Armor by Loretta Chase. I needed a historical romance fix and remembered several good reviews of Ten Things I Hate about the Duke, only to realize that I hadn’t read the previous book yet. The first in the series is a delightful rom-com and offers a fun introduction to the hero of the book I actually wanted to read.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Rosaline Palmer Takes the Cake by Alexis Hall

  I was looking for another book to read by Alexis Hall and came across this one. It’s the first of a new series and is taking place at a baking show. Very much looking forward to its release this May.

• Still Standing by Kristen Ashley

  I’m a devoted fan of the author. I still have some catching-up do when it comes to her older series. Doesn’t keep me from eagerly awaiting the first book of a new series. I mean, look at the set-up:

  When Clara Delany walks into the Aces High Motorcycle Club’s hangout, she’s hit rock bottom. She’s hiding her car from the repo man, she has less than two dollars in her bank account and the only employment she can get is delivering messages for a criminal.
  
  All because of a man. Therefore, she’s sworn off them.
  
  And then she meets West “Buck” Hardy, president of the Aces High MC.

First Time

I read Love at the Icicle Café by Denise N. Wheatley. A romance novel set in Germany is so rare that I of course had to read it. It wasn’t like coming home though. I’m not familiar with communities close to US Army bases. At first, I was surprised by the English names of shops and restaurants, but it makes sense. I enjoyed the story. It’s a sweet Winter tale that has me craving candied almonds now. And brownies. And Glühwein.

Favorite Cover

The Light at the Bottom of the World by London Shah | Cover artist: Shane Rebenschield | Cover designer: Sasha Illingsworth

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Ever After Always by Chloe Liese

• Roommate by Sarina Bowen

• Someday My Duke Will Come by Christina Britton

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• The Star Series: The Complete Boxed Set von Susan Grant

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

Are you ready for 2021? I feel like I haven’t arrived yet. Moving forward is difficult when being stuck in one place. But my reading is going well. And planning what I want to read has me all excited.

I started the year with Alyssa Cole’s When No One is Watching and have also completed My Dad's Best Friend by Katee Robert and The Guy in the Middle by Kate Stewart. Books by authors I trust. My goal for this year though, is to read at least 50 new-to-me authors. I love discovering new voices. New favorites!

What about you? Do you have any reading goals? I’d love to hear about them.

I hope you’re staying safe and healthy. Enjoy this week’s issue of The Romance Voice. ❤️

In the Media

• From The Oprah Magazine: I’m a Romance Novelist Who Writes About Politics—And I Won’t “Stay In My Lane” by Alyssa Cole VIEW ARTICLE

• From LSE Impact Blog: Academia meets Romancelandia: Or, what scholars can learn from romance writers by Christine Larson VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishers Weekly: Are Book Biz Diversity Efforts Starting to Kick In? by Jim Milliot VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New York Times: For Television and Romance Novels, Love at Last? by Alexis Soloski VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Alexis Daria is writing a witchy romance for Audible Originals. MORE

• Carina Press has bought the rights to Alicia Hunter Pace’s romance trilogy set in Alabama. MORE

• Ruby Basu will publish her debut release with HQ Stories. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’m reading Division Bells by Iona Datt Sharma. And loving it. It’s so tender, so emotional, so English. The writing is beautiful. I’m very grateful for the tweet that got me interested.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• The Frozen Crown by Greta Kelly

  An adult fantasy debut with a romance subplot. Of course I had to add it.

• For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes

  A romance about a trans woman finding love. And it is written by a trans woman. And it is a debut. Very much looking forward to it.

• The Rehearsals by Annette Christie

  The cover made me take a second look, but it was the book’s description that hooked me.

  Megan Givens and Tom Prescott are heading into what is supposed to be their magical wedding weekend on beautiful San Juan Island. But with two difficult families, ten years of history, and all too many secrets, things quickly go wrong. After a disastrous rehearsal dinner they vow to call the whole thing off—only to wake up the next morning stuck together in a time loop. Are they really destined to relive the worst day of their lives, over and over? But what happens if their wedding day does arrive?

First Time

I read Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall. A lot of people talked about this book. About their love for it. My expectations were high. Very high. I was worried, as it was my first book by the author. I shouldn’t have been. I cared for the characters, enjoyed the setting, and didn’t want it to end. I laughed and cried. Happy to recommend it.

Favorite Cover

The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizardry by C.M. Waggoner | Publisher: Ace

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• The Ballad of Hattie Taylor by Susan Andersen

• Persephone Station by Stina Leicht

• Love Songs for Skeptics by Christina Pishiris

Free Books

Found the following e-books for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• A Viking Maiden for the Marquess by Michelle Willingham

• Forever This Time by Maggie McGinnis

• The Longest Night by EE Ottoman

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

This week’s newsletter issue is the last one for 2020. I will miss you!

I struggled last week and still do. It’s the lockdown. It’s about not spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve with friends and family. It’s worrying about their health. It’s knowing that the pandemic won’t be over anytime soon.

However, reading romance novels helps. And I had a very good reading year. I read close to 120 romance releases and several books outside my favorite genre. I discovered over 50 new-to-me authors and read across all major romance subgenres. Goodreads tells me that my average rating was 3,6 (last year it was 3,5).

Here are the 2020 romance releases that received five stars from me (in order of when I read them):

• Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas

• A Heart of Blood and Ashes by Milla Vane

• Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert

• Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisher

• The Captain's Midwinter Bride by Liana De la Rosa

What was your reading year like? I’d love to hear about your favorites.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season. Please stay safe and healthy! I look forward to seeing you in 2021. ❤️

In the Media

• From The Guardian: The sexiest moments in literature that aren't sex scenes by Sam Jordison VIEW ARTICLE

• From Den of Geek: How Bridgerton Can Avoid Outlander’s Mistakes by Amanda-Rae Prescott VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New York Times: Why Is Publishing So White? by Richard Jean So and Gus Wezerek VIEW ARTICLE

• From Publishers Weekly: Talia Hibbert Keeps On Writing On by Zoraida Córdova VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Sunday Post: Sarah Morgan on the Scottish setting for latest book One More For Christmas by The Sunday Post VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Washington Post: Romance authors and fans teamed up to support Georgia Democrats. Here’s the story. by Christina Fattore VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Suzanne Park is writing a YA Asian-American holiday rom-com for Sourcebooks Fire. MORE

• Montlake has bought the rights to a sports romance by JN Welsh. MORE

• Amy Rose Bennett’s new historical romance series has sold to Sourcebooks Casablanca. MORE

• Joy Avery has sold a small-town romance to Montlake. MORE

• St. Martin’s Press has bought an interracial romance by Jodie Slaughter. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’m reading Last Light by Claire Kent. I can’t remember who mentioned the book on Twitter, but it sounded intriguing. I’ve read and enjoyed books by the author before - many years ago - and was in the mood for a post-apocalyptic story. It’s a survival and road-trip romance with the one-bed trope. And at 33% it’s very much a slow burn. It’s violent in places, but it also offers moments of tenderness, comfort, and yearning.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Witch Please by Ann Aguirre

  I’m a fan of the author and added her September 2021 release for the heroine, a witch who co-owns a magical tech repair shop, and the hero, a virgin who owns a bakery. Go click on the link to read the blurb (it’s too long to share here) and add the book to your wish list.

• I Kissed a Girl by Jennet Alexander

  Always happy to add a debut release. And I really like the sound of this one:

  Noa Birnbaum has just gotten a job as a makeup assistant on a movie, thanks to her roommate. She’s thrilled when she learns that Lilah Silver will be the star—she’s had a crush on the leading lady for a while. But when she meets Lilah at the studio, Noa is unimpressed – Lilah is distant and shallow, and Noa isn’t in any hurry to get to know her.
  
  Lilah Silver is tired of being in B-rate movies and has finally landed a leading role—in a sci-fi creature feature. Worried that no one will take her seriously, she’s hidden herself behind her pageant queen persona. Lilah is awed by Noa’s self-confidence and style, but how can she convince Noa she’s not a snobby scream queen when she can’t find the right words without a script in her hands?

• The Unworthy Duke by Charlotte Anne

  A new-to-me author. An Australian author published by an Australian publisher. And it is a Historical. A Regency romance with a lady's companion and a grumpy duke. That’s plenty to get me interested.

First Time

I read The Naughty List by Ellie Mae MacGregor. I came across the debut on Instagram. It’s short, fun, and delivers what it promises: a sexy Santa romance story.

Favorite Cover

The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting by K.J. Charles | Cover artist: Kanaxa

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Dream Chaser by Kristen Ashley

• The Office Party by Whitney G.

• Threshold of Annihilation by T.A. White

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Brand New by Rilzy Adams

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I spent the weekend with my best friend; she is my safe person. We baked Christmas cookies, watched HGTV - only just found out it’s available for free in Germany - and talked. We talked about music, friends, and work. We didn’t talk about books. My best friend doesn’t read romance novels. None of my close friends reads romance novels. They are my music, movie, and gaming friends.

You are my romance-reading friends.

Thank you for reading my newsletter. Sharing my love of romance stories, authors, and artists gives me great pleasure. I hope you enjoy this week’s issue. And please don’t hesitate to contact me. Always happy to hear from you!

Love & hugs! ❤️

In the Media

• From Publishing Perspective: The Netherlands’ NL Film Is Developing a Muslim Romance With Wattpad by Porter Anderson VIEW ARTICLE

• From Glamour: Stacey Abrams Is the Author of Eight Unapologetically Hot Romance Novels by Jenny Singer VIEW ARTICLE

• From The New York Times: Stacey Abrams has written 8 romance novels. Now her fellow authors are raising money for Georgia Democrats. by Alexandra Alter VIEW ARTICLE

• From Vogue: How a Group of Romance Writers Raised Almost Half a Million Dollars for Georgia’s Runoff Candidates by Elena Sheppard VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Mary Sue: Nora Roberts Beautifully Destroyed a “Fan” Who Tried to Explain Publishing to Her by Jessica Mason VIEW ARTICLE

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Montlake is publishing a West Side Story inspired romance by Priscilla Oliveras. MORE

• Charish Reid has revealed the title, cover, and the release date for her next book. MORE

• Yamile Saied Méndez’ upcoming romances will be published by Kensington. MORE

• Forever has secured rights to C Chilove’s books set in a “world of debutantes and the Black Elite”. MORE

• Penguin is publishing Isaac Fellman’s book about a vampire archivist. MORE

• Jackson Pearce’s adult romance novel will be published by Sourcebooks. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Holiday Honey by Chencia C. Higgins. I was looking for a short holiday read and remembered Femme Trash’s recommendation: “Super sexy, great chemistry and dialogue. It was *perfect*.” I agree!

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• The Office Party by Whitney G.

  I’m a fan of the author’s Reasonable Doubt series. I wishlisted her upcoming release because I’m feeling the following ingredients:

  • Office romance✔️

  • Christmas✔️

  • Luxury resort✔️

• In the Lives of Puppets by T.J. Klune

  Any book by the author will make it on my Want to Read list. And I love the description of this one:

  A queer retelling of Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio starring an inventor named Victor, a mysterious android called Hap (Hysterically Angry Puppet), an anxiety-riddled Roomba vacuum named Rambo, and a sociopathic nursing machine, the Registered Automaton To Care, Heal, Educate and Drill (Nurse Ratched, for short).

• Ten Rules for Faking It by Sophie Sullivan

  I like what Helen Hoang has to say about the book: “A wholesome, slow-burn romance that will warm your heart...This is a Hallmark movie in book form." Sounds like the perfect book to end the year with. I have bookmarked it for doing just that.

First Time

I’m reading Rules of Redemption by T.A. White. The book is on sale this week. I’ve had it on my wish list for a while and I’m glad I finally got to pick it up for a risk-free price. Earlier this year I read and enjoyed Hanna Dare’s Mind + Machine series. It was my return to science fiction romance. A romance genre I very much enjoy. I’ve been looking for another series to binge. The Firebird Chronicles looked to be closer to straight science fiction, but the reviews have mentioned a romance plot. I’m 20% in and loving it.

Favorite Cover

The Conductors by Nicole Glover | Cover artist: Elizabeth Leggett | Cover designer: Martha Kennedy

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Her Pretend Christmas Date by Jackie Lau

• The Pass by Rebecca Jenshak

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• The Dress of the Season by Kate Noble

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

It’s already December, the last month of 2020. An unusual, painful but also surprising, and beautiful year. For me it started with health issues and then the pandemic messed up all my plans. No gaming retreats and no romance reader conventions. No family visits and no hugs from friends. But it also gave me time to recover. And to read. And to connect with romance readers and writers online. I discovered new authors, attended webinars and chats, and started my own newsletter.

So, I’ve decided to concentrate on the positive looking back: I want to thank you for joining me on this journey. For reaching out to me with book recommendations and news, for offering your support, for sharing your love, for accepting my invitations, and for your friendship.

I feel grateful and honored to have you in my life.

Please stay safe and healthy! ❤️

In the Media

• From Jezebel: How Romance Novelists Are Mobilizing Voters in Solidarity With Stacey Abrams by Kelly Faircloth VIEW ARTICLE

• From Newsweek: Romance Novelists Raise Nearly $400,000 for Dems in Georgia Runoff by Katherine Fung VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Guardian: Romance novelists raise $400,000 for Georgia Senate races – with help from Stacey Abrams by Lois Beckett VIEW ARTICLE

• From Entertainment Weekly: Romance authors and readers raised almost $400,000 to help Stacey Abrams turn Georgia blue by Maureen Lee Lenker VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Bookseller: Little, Brown's Sphere and Piatkus imprints launch Fresh Ink Award by Benedicte Page VIEW ARTICLE

• From Slate: The Unbearable Banality of Romance Novel Décor by Alexandra Lange VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Successful indie author Karina Halle sold a book to Berkley. MORE

• Gallery Books has bought the rights to Angie Hockman’s romantic comedy Dream On. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I read Daddy Crush by Adriana Anders. It was Zoe York’s enthusiastic tweet that got me interested in the book. It wasn’t what I expected - an explicit daddy kink story - but I loved what I got. It’s low on drama and delivers a tender and sexy romance. The artistic and inexperienced heroine is adorable. I’m in awe of her bravery and the way she approaches life. The older hero is gruff but there when needed. He tries to resist, but of course he falls under her spell. The chemistry between the two is delicious!

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske

  I came across the announcement for the book when I looked at what Tor.com has planned for next year. I’m always happy to discover a debut release and love the author’s description:

  A Marvellous Light is a historical fantasy wrapped tightly around a romance with some large dollops of deadly peril and curse-breaking, and I also wanted to give a fond nod to the grand English tradition of manor house murder mysteries. It’s about the scars left by our upbringings, falling in love where you don’t expect it, reframing powerlessness, and the deep responsibilities we owe to the places we claim as our homes.

• The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling

  I’m still into witchy books and I like what the author had to say about it:

First Time

I’m reading How to Fail at Flirting by Denise Williams. I only just started the book. I’ve been waiting for its release for months. It’s a debut and the author was on one of the Frankfurt Book Fair panels I organized. I love following her Instagram. The pre-release promotional activities were fun and in my case obviously successful.

Favorite Cover

The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton | Cover designer: Katie Anderson | Cover artist: Dawn Cooper

New Releases

This week’s list of new releases I can’t wait to read:

• How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole

• Second Chance on Cypress Lane by Reese Ryan

• Loverboy by Sarina Bowen

• When a Rogue Meets His Match by Elizabeth Hoyt

• The Mistletoe Kisser by Lucy Score

• Taking on the Billionaire by Robin Covington

• Party Favors by Erin McLellan

• The Not-Outcast by Tijan

• Not What I Expected by Jewel E. Ann

• Ten Things I Hate About the Duke by Loretta Chase

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• 1001 Dark Nights Short Story Anthology 2020 with stories by Fiona Archer ~ Louisa Bacio ~ Laura M. Baird ~ Kait Ballenger ~ Asa Maria Bradley ~ Eden Bradley ~ Boone Brux ~ C.G. Burnette ~ Cara Carnes ~ Caraway Carter ~ Sierra Cartwright ~ S.A. Clayton ~ Katana Collins ~ Janie Crouch ~ Patricia D. Eddy ~ Zoey Ellis ~ Zoe Hill ~ Sara L. Hudson ~ Tracey Jerald ~ A.D. Justice ~ Terri E. Laine ~ Michelle Mars ~ Gina L. Maxwell ~ Kayt Miller ~ Dani René ~ Gen Ryan ~ Blue Saffire ~ Ella Sheridan ~ Mayra Statham ~ Delancey Stewart ~ Jen Talty ~ Mary Ting ~ Reina Torres ~ Magan Vernon ~ Jennifer Woodhull ~ Khloe Wren

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

I keep two separate folders on my e-book reader: General and TBR. In my General folder I keep every purchase and free download. To my TBR folder I move the books I want to read ASAP. And it’s not working. My TBR folder has of today 642 titles in it. Some of them over 10 years old. I know I should, but I dread having to do a purge. How to decide? I welcome helpful suggestions.

I hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter issue.

Happy reading! ❤️

In the Media

• From Bustle: How Romance Novelists Are Helping Stacey Abrams Turn Georgia Blue by Lily Herman VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Washington Post: Best romance novels of 2020 by Sarah Wendell VIEW ARTICLE

• From BookPage: Best Books of 2020: Romance by the editors of BookPage VIEW ARTICLE

• From Slate: How Bridgerton’s Costume Designer Put Together Its Gaudiest, Tackiest Dresses (on Purpose) by Rachelle Hampton VIEW ARTICLE

• From Autostraddle: No Adam for Eve: The Quiet History of Lesbian Pulp Fiction by Chloe Maveal VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• EE Ottoman has announced a holiday short. MORE

• Rilzy Adams is releasing a Christmas short in December. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’ve started reading A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem by Manda Collins. And I’m loving it so far. I already had the book on my reader, but it was Olivia Dade’s tweet that made me read it sooner than later:

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• His Perfect Fake Engagement by Shannon McKenna

  A surprise find. Years ago I devoured the author’s McCloud Brothers series. And then I lost sight of her. This is the start of a new series and it comes with one of my favorite tropes: fake relationship.

  When it comes to bad boys,
  the rules of engagement are made to be broken…
  
  While not all of starchitect Drew Maddox’s playboy reputation is deserved, a recent scandal means he has one last shot to stay CEO of his family’s company. He has to settle down. Bright, beautiful and squeaky-clean Jenna Somers will make the perfect fake fiancée. Drew promises Jenna whatever she desires…but what she desires is him!

• The Invitation by Vi Keeland

  Vi Keeland is on my list of auto-buy authors. I can’t resist her books. They usually are fun and sexy.

• The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton

  This one was an obvious pick. It’s a debut release and comes with the best logline. Here it is:

  A prim and proper lady thief must save her aunt from a crazed pirate and his dangerously charming henchman in this fantastical historical romance.

First Time

I read The Captain's Midwinter Bride, my first book by Liana De la Rosa. The book’s premise of a married couple in their 40s falling in love with each other had me intrigued. And while reading it I got emotionally so invested in their story that I had tears running down my face. Not because I was upset, but because I adored seeing the hero and heroine’s love and respect for each other. Highly recommended!

Favorite Cover

Battle Royal by Lucy Parker | Illustrator: Liza Rusalskaya

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Archangel's Sun by Nalini Singh

  I haven’t caught up with the Guild Hunter series, but I know I will want to read the latest installment once I have.

• Confessions in B-Flat by Donna Hill

  I’m getting the book because of its cover. I love it that much.

  

• Daddy Crush by Adriana Anders

  I liked my first Daddy romance, Katee Robert’s Your Dad Will Do, and want to try another one. I’m choosing this one, as it is by an author I’ve been meaning to read more from. I enjoyed Adriana Anders’ contribution to the anthology Reindeer Games.

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Getting Schooled by Christina C Jones

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice

Next week the latest book in Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series will be available. And I feel guilty for not buying and reading it within days after its release. It made me ponder about series - TV and book series, as well as long-running RPG campaigns - and how much I prefer one-shots, movies, and single titles.

I get too easily distracted by the shiny and new to keep up with the shows, games, and books I love. It's not that I DNF them because I get bored or because I dislike the way they are progressing. I just love discovering what else is out there more. And it’s difficult to commit while - well, yes - missing out. There is an exception of course. I’m still reading every new book set in Nalini Singh’s Psy/Changeling world.

How about you? Do you finish every series you start? Which is the one you’ve been following the longest?

I hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter issue.

Happy reading! ❤️

In the Media

• From Pajiba: Romancing the Runoff: How a Group of Romance Authors Are Fighting For The Georgia Senate Runoff Elections by Kayleigh Donaldson VIEW ARTICLE

• From Kirkus Reviews: Best Romance Novels of 2020 VIEW ARTICLE

• From The Bookseller: Cohen, Grünewald and Mills & Boon win RNA Industry Awards by Mark Chandler VIEW ARTICLE

• From Redbrick: Why Not Judge a Book by its Cover? by Harpal Khambay VIEW ARTICLE

Debut Release

As much as I like discovering an author with a backlist (instant bingeabilty for the win), there is just something special about coming across an announcement for a debut release.

Vorfreude

Love hearing about new books? So do I. Here are the announcements that caught my eye:

• Carina Press is publishing another hockey romance by Kelly Farmer. MORE

• Lucy Parker has sold the sixth book in her London Celebrities series to Carina Press. MORE

• Skyscape has bought two YA novels by romance author Farah Heron. MORE

#TwitterMadeMeReadIt

I’m reading A Duchess a Day by Charis Michaels. When romance author Megan Frampton mentioned the book and described it as delightful and clever, I knew I had found my next read. Im not familiar with the author but had already admired the cover. The heroine’s coloring, the apple in her hand, the series title, Awakened by a Kiss, and the hero’s moniker, Huntsman, are all very obviously referencing The Brothers Grimm’s Snow White. I love fairy tales and stories based on them.

Newly Added

The latest romance novels I’ve added to my Want to Read list on Goodreads are:

• Not the Kind of Earl You Marry by Kate Pembrooke

  I came across the book on Instagram. It’s a debut release, a historical, and it comes with the fake-relationship trope. One-clicked!

  When a false betrothal announcement is published, naming a stranger as his fiancée, William Atherton, the Earl of Norwood, is determined to quash what he believes is a marriage trap. But when he storms into Miss Charlotte Hurst's home, the lady in question doesn't hesitate to tell him he's the last man she'd marry. Still, with his political ambitions on the line, he can't afford a scandal, so he offers up a wild proposal: they pretend the engagement is real.
  
  Charlotte may be a wallflower, but she's no shrinking violet. Yet even she sees the wisdom in the Earl's proposition. The bluestocking might not mingle with William's elite social circles, but she still has her reputation to consider. But as their charade continues, the line between pretense and reality becomes harder to distinguish for the reluctant allies. And as their fake engagement leads to real attachment, and a happily-ever-after looks possible, a new scandal looms, one that seems certain to tear them apart. 

• Party Favors by Erin McLellan

  This is the fourth book in the author’s So Over the Holidays series. I’ve read and enjoyed the previous ones. And I do love the only-one-bed trope.

• A Wolf in Duke's Clothing by Susanna Allen

  My two current favorite romance genres combined? Of course I want to read a Regency romance about a duke who is a wolf shifter and his chosen - but reluctant - mate.

First Time

I read Let Me Love You by Alexandria House. Earlier this year the book was available for free and I downloaded it. Most free books I probably won’t read. There are just too many. However, some I will get to. Especially, if they are already on my wish list or are being hyped on Twitter. A nice cover helps too. This one had it all. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I don’t watch reality TV anymore, but the characters, the drama, the lavish houses and clothes, the relationships… It reminded of the fun I used to have with several MTV shows. I just couldn’t put down the book. Stayed up late. Finished it in one day. Glad it is the first book in a series.

Favorite Cover

Dead Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia | Cover artist: Emma Lenoard

New Releases

This week’s new releases I can’t wait to read:

• Duke I'd Like to F... by Sierra Simone, Joanna Shupe, Eva Leigh, Nicola Davidson, Adriana Herrera

  I’m a fan of anthologies. They are great for discovering new authors. And of course for quick reads by favorite ones. Here I get both.

• Wrapped Up in You by Talia Hibbert

  A Christmas novella by one of my favorite authors. I’ve jumped through hoops for this one. It’s a Kobo Original and I was unable to download the app. Contacted customer service to be told that my phone is too old. Luckily, it works on my laptop.

• The Bright and Breaking Sea by Chloe Neill

  The promise of a swashbuckling fantasy with a romance subplot and a beautiful cover made this one an obvious choice.

  

Free Books

Found the following e-book for free (as of today) on Amazon DE:

• Runaway Road by Devney Perry

My Favorite Tweet

Find me on Twitter and on Instagram. I’d love to hear about your favorite romance novels, authors, and creators.

Subscribe and you won’t miss the next issue. And please share The Romance Voice if you think someone you know would enjoy it.

Subscribe now

Share The Romance Voice