Hey Love Letter Collectors 💌,

June was filled with the kind of moments that remind me this journey is about so much more than writing books. It was about community, connection, and celebrating stories with the people who continue to make this dream possible.

One of the biggest highlights of the month was releasing Chanel's Interlude into the world. Returning to Chanel's story and watching so many of you embrace this novella has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing your reactions, favorite quotes, and heartfelt messages has reminded me just how deeply Chanel’s character has found a home with all of you.

This month also brought exciting growth to our little corner of the internet. Watching my Substack and Patreon communities continue to grow has been such a blessing. Whether you're reading exclusive chapters, joining discussions, or simply showing up each week, thank you for helping me create spaces where we can connect beyond the pages of my books.

To close out the month, I had the opportunity to attend Rep Yo City from June 26–28. There is something so special about being surrounded by readers, fellow authors, and people who believe in the power of storytelling. Every conversation, every signed book, and every new connection filled my cup and reminded me that I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.

As always, thank you for being part of this journey. Now, let's look back at everything June had in store.

Book Updates

 City of Scammers is Coming

Something new is on the horizon 💙 City of Scammers is coming July 31st.

About City of Scammers

In IL Consiglio, every family controls a piece of the empire. The Loriani family controls what no one else can. Information.

Led by Raffaele Loriani, a brilliant and ruthless patriarch, his family has built their power on code, deception, and blood. At his side stands Alessandra Loriani, quiet, perceptive, and just as formidable. She helped shape their empire and the daughters who will inherit it.

Luciana is the weapon.

Valentina is the system.

Together, the Loriani sisters make their family untouchable. Valentina Loriani has always believed in control, building systems that protect their power, their money, and their secrets. But when a man from another powerful family enters her world, he does not fear what she is. He understands it.

Luciana does not believe in trust. As the family's enforcer, she sees what her sister does not. A potential threat hiding behind interest. But when love unexpectedly knocks at her door, will Luciana lose sight of what she believes for love?

As loyalty, power, and control begin to fracture, Raffaele is ready to retire, and he is forced to choose which daughter is ready to become the Don.

Audiobook Spotlight

 I'm so excited to share that 1:09 AM is coming to audio, narrated by the incredibly talented Harper Wilde and Winston James.

If you've been with me for a while, then you already know how much this story means to me. Princess A and her journey to explore her sexual liberation holds a special place in my heart, and knowing that readers will soon be able to experience every emotion, every moment of vulnerability, and every ounce of chemistry through audio is something I still haven't fully wrapped my mind around.

There is something magical about hearing characters you've carried for so long come to life. The tension feels sharper. The emotions hit deeper. The quiet moments linger a little longer.

And with Harper and Winston behind the microphone, I already know they're going to bring something truly special to this story.

✨ Preorders are open now: 

🖤 Release Date: July 7, 2026

What I’ve Been Reading

I had an amazing time reading in May!

Here’s what I tapped into this month:

• The Weight of Us by Camille V.
• Color Me Broken by Camille V.
• Sweet Heat by Bolu Babalola
• Range by Grey Huffington

Rep Yo City Recap 

Rep Yo City was one for the books. ❤️

A time was truly had. This weekend reminded me that one of the greatest gifts of being an author is finding your people. I had the opportunity to connect with more than 30 incredible author peers, and every conversation left me inspired, encouraged, and grateful to be part of this literary community.

Friday night kicked everything off with a mixer that felt like a family reunion. We came representing our hometowns in city T-shirts, sports apparel, and all the hometown pride. Between the cocktails, the delicious soul food, and the laughter, it was the perfect way to begin the weekend.

Saturday was all about the readers. I was fortunate to have two amazing assistants, Linds and Erikka, by my side as I signed books, met readers, took photos, and shared conversations with so many people who stopped by my table. Those moments will always be my favorite part of these events. There's nothing like hearing how a story found its way into someone's heart.

And the fun didn't stop there. That evening we leaned into the creativity with cupcake decorating, bracelet making, and a Blind Date with a Book experience that reminded me why bookish events are some of the most joyful spaces to be in.

I also have to say this... Ohio, I was not prepared for the line dancing! 😂 Y'all showed out, and I loved every minute of it.

A huge thank you to Aisha Bushra for creating something so special. What she's building for readers and authors across the Midwest is incredible. Rep Yo City isn't just a book event. It's a space where community is built, friendships are formed, and Black authors are celebrated.

Thank you to every reader, every author, every volunteer, and every person who made this weekend unforgettable.

Until next time. 🤎

Gratitude Always

June reminded me that growth doesn't always happen in the loudest moments. Sometimes it looks like a reader joining our community. A conversation at a book event that turns into a new friendship. A message telling me one of my characters made someone feel seen.

This month, I'm grateful for every person who chose to come a little closer.

Thank you to everyone who welcomed Chanel's Interlude with so much love. Thank you for subscribing to my Substack, joining Patreon, reading along chapter by chapter, and creating spaces where these stories continue long after the final page.

Thank you to everyone I met at Rep Yo City. Whether you stopped by my table, took a photo, shared a laugh, recommended a book, or simply introduced yourself, those moments reminded me that this community is built one connection at a time.

Writing often begins in solitude, but it never stays there. Because of you, these stories travel farther than I ever could have imagined. They find their way into book clubs, group chats, bookstores, road trips, and quiet nights spent with headphones on and a good book.

Thank you for believing in my words, championing my stories, and continuing to grow alongside me. 

Thank you for being part of this journey. We're just getting started.

Events / Where to Find Me

 

Closing Message

Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other. I’ll see you at the end of June with another wrap up 🤎

Follow me on all of my socials 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lbgainestheauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/LB-Gaines/61578740271428/

Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Fs8TzKSay/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lbgainestheauthor

Substack: https://lbgainestheauthor.substack.com/

With Love 💋, 

L.B. Gaines