Hello, again, darlings. Welcome back to Read n’ Sip Recommendations with Kirsten. This week, I’m back with Part 3 of my Cocktail/Book Pairings.

The last few months at the Paramount Ballroom have given me a new appreciation for alcohol appreciation. I’ve recently been introduced to the Basil Lemon Drop Martini. *swoon* So refreshing! Our bartender, Jesse, is a cocktail connoisseur and his creativity knows no bounds. He’s definitely taught me a few tips and tricks for selecting the perfect cocktail.

While I joke that these are Cocktails to enjoy with your Cock Tales, my books aren’t as erotic as that implies. It was just too good of a pun to pass up. However, my books are on the spicy side. If that’s your thing, then please dive in, but remember to read and sip responsibly. Both the books and the drinks should be enjoyed only by those of the appropriate age.

I’ve chosen a few cocktails to pair with my books and include a recipe from The Spruce Eats for each drink. Now, I did my best to match up the books with a delicious drink that encompassed the book’s vibe. Let’s dive in with some more cocktail/book pairings, shall we?

My novella series, The Thieves of Winter, dominates this list with a recommendation for each novella. Let’s kick it off with Jewel of Winter. The Last Word gives us the perfect balance between a simple gin cocktail and something over the top. The Green Chartreuse liquor makes this one a delight. Much like the tension boiling between Jessamine and Edmund in Jewel of Winter, it’s guaranteed to warm you up. Click HERE for the link.

At Winter’s Demand is the second book in the Thieves of Winter Series. It’s delightfully complicated with a gangster hero and a feisty damsel whose only interest is getting her sister back. Simon plays the brooding, silent love interest well, playing off of Judy’s upbeat, passionate personality. They are the epitome of grumpy and sunshine. This is why I chose a Pisco Sour as their cocktail. Even with sour in the name, this drink has a delightful citrus brightness similar to a margarita, but with a little extra fluff to tease your senses. Click HERE for the recipe.

Under Winter’s Control is book three in the Thieves of Winter Series. It expands on the plot shenanigans begun in the first two books but focuses completely on Kate and Monty’s relationship. These two are smitten with each other but fight it because of the perceived chasm between them thanks to their differing social class. I’ve chosen the French Connection as their signature cocktail as it’s a delightfully sweet dessert beverage that leaves you warm and satisfied after a hearty meal. Click HERE for the recipe.

You’ve heard of upstairs/downstairs (where the lord/lady falls in love with a servant), well, Seducing Winter’s Gentleman takes it a step further when the maid falls in love with the older, more distinguished butler. Anna and Bates live a simple life serving in a prominent lord’s house, but they can’t deny their attraction. It’s deliciously complicated in their mind but quite the opposite in reality. This simple love story has a fun twist that leaves readers breathless and refreshed. It’s best enjoyed with a cocktail that does the same. A Tom Collins is a simple, bubbly drink that compliments the romance simmering in this novella. Here’s the Recipe.

Stealing the Widow’s Heart was never supposed to exist, but after I finished writing Bates and Anna’s story, I knew Lilah deserved to have hers told. When Warren stepped on the scene, I knew these two were going to be constant fireworks with simmering tension and witty banter. You’ll definitely want something cool, sparkling, and refreshing to keep you chill as you read their story. The Floradora gives us the best balance of sweet and strong with a hint of fizzy delight. That kick of raspberry hits the spot! Click HERE for the recipe.

This fun little novella is a time travel romance masquerading as a ghost story. Inspired by my stay at The Historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane, Washington, it provides the ambiance of a historic landmark. As a former hotel housekeeper, I indulged in a little fantasy here, so play along. Lucian and Hannah come from very different worlds, and yet their chemistry is undeniable. I’ve paired their love story with a whiskey sour since whiskey works well on its own, but it becomes robust and complex with a little added sweetness. Check out the recipe HERE.

Owner of a Lonely Heart is book 4 in the Craving 1985 series, where the sweetest cinnamon rolls to ever walk the earth fall in love. Silly touch-starved lovebirds! But it’s not all fun and games. They have some past issues to deal with before they get their HEA. I chose the Rosemary and Cucumber Gin and Tonic for Claude and Gwen because it makes an appearance in their story. Claude is a bartender who makes a special drink for the terrified debutante who walked into his bar wearing a bloodstained Gucci gown. He calls it a “Tipsy Rose”…which is absolutely adorable. That man has my whole heart. No lies. If you want to try it…Click HERE for the classic Gin and Tonic recipe. Or click here for the Rosemary/Cucumber Twist.

I hope you enjoyed part three of my cocktail pairing post. Keep an eye out for Part 4 coming next month!

Until then, sip responsibly while you read. Enjoy! xoxo

Kirsten