“Let’s Kiss and Tell” by Joss Richard
“When it comes to love, I learned that a love story does not have to be big and sweeping and be told across 12 years… You can still have a very beautiful love story with people that are scared or people that might have a happily ever after for now, even though I don’t think they’re having a happily forever after. I think it’s very normal and realistic to enter a relationship being like, this is the best decision for us now. I don’t know what’ll happen later, but I love you now. I think that is something that I learned about—a different way you can tell a love story.”
Romcom nostalgia and a risky workplace romance are above the fold in Joss Richard’s sophomore novel, one she says is “tonally different” from her debut but exactly what she needed to write for herself. When we received an advance copy of Let’s Kiss and Tell earlier this year (prior to our interview with Joss being scheduled), we immediately appreciated the fresh perspective this story brought to the genre. Yes, it has themes and tropes we love, but it also approached topics and romance overall a bit differently. Then we sat down with Joss to chat about it, and it became even more evident just how thoughtful and intentional she was when crafting Lucy and Marsh’s journey.
The narrative: about Let’s Kiss and Tell
Lucy’s a sex columnist who has focused on pieces around embracing sexuality and not needing a relationship. Except, now a “relationship” is exactly what her team is asking for. Mashall, aka Marsh, is a news writer at the same company as Lucy, and he needs a “girlfriend” to go with him to his ex’s upcoming wedding. The solution for both parties — a fake relationship, just for now. Lucy can write about it until the break up, and Marsh has a date for the wedding. Easier said than done… right?
The nightcap
For Let’s Kiss and Tell, Joss is recommending two possible pairings. First is Lucy’s favorite drink — an iced oat milk latte. It’s a true complementary beverage for this story and characters, who as writers, definitely need the caffeine boost each day.
But if you’d rather something just a bit risky like Lucy and Marsh’s workplace/fake romance, then a dirty soda is your best option. Joss has paired Diet Coke with a splash of white chocolate raspberry creamer, given her recent introduction to Diet Coke. It’s crisp to cool you off on the hot summer days, reading poolside, with a hint of sweetness and layers to mirror the romance and complexities of Lucy and Marsh’s modern love story. (Also, can we take a moment to acknowledge that Joss JUST tried Diet Coke recently!!!)
In the episode
Get to know Joss in this episode of Narratives & Nightcaps. We chat about:
The amazing romance book community, including authors, readers, and bookstores.
Writing about sex — not just talking spice here — and why she almost changed Lucy’s career as a sex columnist.
Learning the importance of writing for yourself and finding love stories that come in all different forms.
Joss’s enthusiasm for storytelling, romance, and connection is infectious. Whether in conversation or in reading her books, her unique voice, approach, and energy shine through. When it comes to romantic escapades that blend nostalgia and contemporary themes, she’ll be a go-to for us from here on.
Listen to the full author interview on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Purchase your copy here.
Connect with Joss!