
BOOK DESCRIPTION
“Benedick Kimbrell attempted to steal his first kiss from Miss Catherine Parker in the perfectly imperfect spring of 1808. But his hopes, then and since, were larger than fact.”
A LADY’S UNSPOKEN LONGING
Kate Parker is resolute in her quest for marriage, seeking a dependable match among Newford’s eligible bachelors. But behind her composed demeanor, Kate’s heart holds a stubborn affection for her less-than-dependable friend and an unspoken longing for a kiss that was never claimed.
A ROGUE’S LOST AMBITION
Years ago, Ben Kimbrell harbored ambitions, chief among them a kiss from Miss Kate Parker. Fate, though, had other plans. Now, his heart is weighted by family tragedy, his pain concealed behind a carefree charm. His reputation as an aimless rogue is well-earned, but beneath the façade lies a man who yearns for more.
AND A HEART WELL-GUARDED
When Kate sets her sights on Ben’s dependable cousin, a man who fits her expectations if not her heart, Ben can no longer stand idly by. His efforts to save her from a loveless match find the two of them paired together in a village production of Much Ado About Nothing. Tasked with crafting the enchanting sets for their town’s inaugural performance, their undeniable affection finds the perfect stage to blossom.
But for their love to flourish, Ben must reveal his true self and confront the shadows of his past. Can he find the courage to unlock his heart before it’s too late?
Kissing Kate is a heartwarming best-friends romance about finding the courage to choose happiness and the healing power of love. Set in the charming seaside village of Newford, each book in the Hearts of Cornwall series stands alone.
PRAISE FOR KISSING KATE
- “I really enjoyed this book, and absolutely recommend it to historical romance readers who are looking for a “Hallmark” style read that offers real depth of character, beautiful Cornwall scenery, and a warm prosaic style.”— Bobbie Jo Fersten, Reading Historical Romance
- “A sweet installment in the Hearts of Cornwall Series… I loved the progression of their feelings as they deepened from friendship to romance…This was my first read by K. Lyn Smith and I would pick up more!”— Genesis Aleman, Geny Reads
- “The growth of Kate and Ben is so much fun to watch, and I enjoyed the entire construct of them getting ready to perform a play for their town along with the cousins and friends…Kissing Kate is such a warm hug of a read! I recommend it.”— Michelle, Tales Untangled
BOOK REVIEW


This is a sweet “friends to lovers” romance that is a joy to read. The writing is so delicate and perfect for the period. The suspense that builds up every time Ben tries to kiss Kate makes me smile. It’s a pleasing and heartwarming romance that fans of historical romances will love. The customs and strict proprieties of that period are well described, as is the beauty of Cornwall. I felt transported to that place and time. The writing is so intricate. You won’t find a better-written romance, and you will find yourself cheering for Ben, Kate, and that kiss!
AUTHOR BIO

K. Lyn Smith lives in Birmingham, Alabama, where she writes sweet historical romance about ordinary people finding extraordinary love. Her debut novel, The Astronomer’s Obsession, was a finalist for the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, while many of her other titles have been shortlisted for awards such as the American Writing Award, the Carolyn Reader’s Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion, and the Maggie Award.
When she’s not reading or writing, you can find her with family, traveling and watching period dramas. And space documentaries. Weird, right?
WEBSITE | X (FORMERLY TWITTER) | PINTERST | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
READ AN INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR K. LYN SMITH
K. Lyn shares her inspiration for the story and characters in Kissing Kate, the research process, and Regency era theater productions. Read the full interview here.
PURCHASE LINKS


Excellent review, Bonnie. Such romance! ❤
Yes I’m trying to open up to romance, in fiction I mean! Lol. I’ve had 40 plus years of romance with Doug.
I get it. 😃❤
Much Ado About Nothing sounds as if it would be an interesting twist!
It was a really fun idea!
This sounds like such a lovely story and I love that title! Excellent review, Bonnie!
Thanks! This book was SO well written. Exquisite and true to the period.
This sounds lovely, Bonnie. And an intriguing review.
Happy to share.
Thanks so much Patricia. Lovely it was!
[…] On Wednesday I reviewed Kissing Kate by K. Lyn Smith. […]
Definitely sounds like a sweet romance! And the title, isn’t that the name of a musical/play? I feel like my sister performed in it when she was in high school. Thanks for sharing!
https://lisalovesliterature.bookblog.io/2024/02/06/e-galley-review-lonely-for-you-only-lancaster-prep-6-by-monica-murphy/
I think the play title is Kiss Me Kate but I’m not sure
You’re right! lol. I knew it was something close.
[…] A really sweet “best friends” romance with a lovely Spring cover. My review is here. […]