Kristen Casey

Hey all! Guess what? August is Read-a-Romance Month, also known as That Time I “Discovered” an Amazing Author Everyone Else Already Loves! (smh)

This month, I’m continuing my participation in author Nana Malone’s #BrownNippleChallenge by reading some more fan-favorite titles by Black romance authors. If you’ve been following my Instagram posts, then you’ll know that I’ve fallen head-over-heels for Alyssa Cole’s Reluctant Royals series. These award-winning books contain some truly epic romance writing, and if you’ve been living under a rock (as I apparently am) and haven’t read them yet, then I suggest you get on it! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Each one is smart and sexy, funny and emotional and real – and such a wonderful escape from this unbelievable year (and all the crazy it keeps coughing up).

I’ve also had a chance to read Rene Penn’s adorable novella Fake It Til She Makes It . This one has been on my TBR for a while, and it was the perfect antidote to all the gloomy, rainy weather we’ve been having lately. It’s a quick, funny, romantic read, but it packs a lot of story into its short length and it never feels rushed or underdeveloped. I really enjoyed this couple’s cute chemistry and banter, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this writer soon.

Next up in the queue are the Reluctant Royals novellas (naturally – I told you I was smitten), some Beverly Jenkins titles I’ve been hearing folks gush about for years, and some fancy new releases that I’m stalking obsessively at the digital library. I also have a few more independent publishers I want to try, so keep your eyes peeled for those, too! I always post my reviews on Instagram and my book review board on Pinterest, along with all the usual bookish sites like BookBub and Goodreads.

Have you found other great romances and authors through Read-a-Romance posts and events, or through the Challenge? Hit me up with your recommendations! Like you, I really need the escape that reading gives me these days – and I’m always game to broaden my horizons and try something new.

Especially since… Teen 1 and Teen 2 are starting all-day, all-virtual high school next week. Gulp. Send us all of your good vibes, because I have a feeling we’re going to need them!

Until next month – stay safe and keep wearing those masks, so we can all get back to life as we once knew it!