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Recipe for Desire
A Party Girl's Work Is Never Done. . .At twenty-seven, Marie Charles is still Charlotte's number one party girl. But when she adds a DWI arrest and a totaled Jaguar to her list of tabloid news-making escapades, her daddy is done bailing her out. Sentenced to five hundred hours of community service at My Sister's Keeper, a homeless shelter for women, Marie won't have much time left for partying. . .Renowned chef and TV star Devon Harris volunteers at My Sister's Keeper. And he's not happy Marie is joining him. He may be single--and she may be gorgeous--but the last thing he's interested in is a superficial southern belle. But as Marie outgrows the selfish girl she was, Devon is turned on by the woman she's becoming. . ."A good dose of love, humor, drama and all those sensuous things in between." --The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers on His Sexy Bad Habit"Hodges delivers a sizzling romance. . .." --Publishers Weekly on More Than He Can Handle
296 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
23 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
About the author
Cheris Hodges
63 books306 followersCheris Hodges was bitten by the writing bug at an early age and always knew she wanted to be a writer. She is a 1999 graduate of Johnson C. Smith University and a freelance writer in Charlotte, North Carolina. A native of Bennettsville, South Carolina, Cheris loves hearing from her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 28, 2018
✦ Rich party girl gets in trouble, meets hero at community service
✦ She also works in PR
✦ He’s a celebrity chef volunteering there at the women's shelter
✦ The story itself was . . . okay? But not the greatest, not the tightest, and as it went on I had a lot of 'Uhhhh but what about--" type of moments
✦ I had some issues with this one – including the sex scenes (words used -- example: "her hot valley of desire" -- I thought I was reading a purple-prose book from the 80s or 90s, not a contemporary written in 2012!)
✦ But also slut shaming, fat shaming, and some misogyny from the hero. Oh, and the hero cheated on his previous girlfriend so I'm giving him the side-eye for the rest of time. Once a cheater, always a cheater, let's be honest here.
✦ Sometimes I think this book only deserved 1 star, but then I think "Nah, I save 1 stars for the WORST OF THE WORST" and this one, while bad, was not *quite* that bad. But it was close at times, not going to lie.
✦ Not sure if I'll try this author again, tbh. Maybe if someone has a GREAT book of hers to rec and my library happened to get it. Otherwise, I think I'm moving on to other authors. *shrugs*
I did a thread with quotes and whatnot: https://twitter.com/The_Book_Queen/st...
✦ She also works in PR
✦ He’s a celebrity chef volunteering there at the women's shelter
✦ The story itself was . . . okay? But not the greatest, not the tightest, and as it went on I had a lot of 'Uhhhh but what about--" type of moments
✦ I had some issues with this one – including the sex scenes (words used -- example: "her hot valley of desire" -- I thought I was reading a purple-prose book from the 80s or 90s, not a contemporary written in 2012!)
✦ But also slut shaming, fat shaming, and some misogyny from the hero. Oh, and the hero cheated on his previous girlfriend so I'm giving him the side-eye for the rest of time. Once a cheater, always a cheater, let's be honest here.
✦ Sometimes I think this book only deserved 1 star, but then I think "Nah, I save 1 stars for the WORST OF THE WORST" and this one, while bad, was not *quite* that bad. But it was close at times, not going to lie.
✦ Not sure if I'll try this author again, tbh. Maybe if someone has a GREAT book of hers to rec and my library happened to get it. Otherwise, I think I'm moving on to other authors. *shrugs*
I did a thread with quotes and whatnot: https://twitter.com/The_Book_Queen/st...
August 7, 2012
Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed by Ashleigh
Review Copy Provided by the Publisher
Devon Harris has it all. He has his own TV cooking show, a group of loving friends, and a cause he believes in. The cause close to his heart is My Sister’s Keeper, a homeless women’s shelter. For six months he has enjoyed teaching the women how to cook. For personal reasons all his own, this simple act of volunteering has filled a place in his heart. He never knew that agreeing to supervise non-violent female offenders doing their community service at the shelter would change his life forever. Will meeting one woman that he swore would never be his type turn out to be just the woman that he needed in his
life?
Marie Charles has a reputation and it’s not for being quiet and demure. But she needs to be on her best behavior tonight. Her company has organized a large event for a major client and she can’t afford a scene. Then in walks her fiancé and on his arm is his ex-wife. Let’s just say Marie doesn’t take this laying down and by the end of the night, she is behind bars. What Marie doesn’t see at the time is that being behind those bars was really the catalyst that set her free from her own cage. Changing everything about herself is the only option left for Marie, but is she willing to make the leap of faith? And will the most unsuspecting man be there to catch her as she falls?
I have to say first off that this is written like a standalone, but after a bit of research, it turns out Ms. Hodges has written other stories involving this circle of friends. I was rather disappointed. I love series and I really love reading them in order. Even though this is a standalone story, I felt miffed that I missed the rest of the friends’ blossoming relationships.
I did rate this story on its merits alone. It is a very sweet yet sizzling read. It is a comforting kind of read. The plot is straightforward with no real twists or turns, just good old fashioned romance. But it is missing something for me that would have made it a great story. Recipe for Desire is very fairytale like. It definitely has a “feel good” feel to it.
Reviewed by Ashleigh
Review Copy Provided by the Publisher
Devon Harris has it all. He has his own TV cooking show, a group of loving friends, and a cause he believes in. The cause close to his heart is My Sister’s Keeper, a homeless women’s shelter. For six months he has enjoyed teaching the women how to cook. For personal reasons all his own, this simple act of volunteering has filled a place in his heart. He never knew that agreeing to supervise non-violent female offenders doing their community service at the shelter would change his life forever. Will meeting one woman that he swore would never be his type turn out to be just the woman that he needed in his
life?
Marie Charles has a reputation and it’s not for being quiet and demure. But she needs to be on her best behavior tonight. Her company has organized a large event for a major client and she can’t afford a scene. Then in walks her fiancé and on his arm is his ex-wife. Let’s just say Marie doesn’t take this laying down and by the end of the night, she is behind bars. What Marie doesn’t see at the time is that being behind those bars was really the catalyst that set her free from her own cage. Changing everything about herself is the only option left for Marie, but is she willing to make the leap of faith? And will the most unsuspecting man be there to catch her as she falls?
I have to say first off that this is written like a standalone, but after a bit of research, it turns out Ms. Hodges has written other stories involving this circle of friends. I was rather disappointed. I love series and I really love reading them in order. Even though this is a standalone story, I felt miffed that I missed the rest of the friends’ blossoming relationships.
I did rate this story on its merits alone. It is a very sweet yet sizzling read. It is a comforting kind of read. The plot is straightforward with no real twists or turns, just good old fashioned romance. But it is missing something for me that would have made it a great story. Recipe for Desire is very fairytale like. It definitely has a “feel good” feel to it.
April 23, 2012
The protagonist Marie is a spoiled, self-centered and self-destructive woman with a successful career peppered with drama. However beneath her superficial exterior is a capable woman who required a wake-up call in her life in order to effectuate change. The change comes when she must take responsibility for her role in a minor accident. Given community service, and forced to face the consequences, she learns a valuable life lesson about accountability and what truly matters are those we love and having a giving heart.
A well-written and entertaining romantic novel.
SANDRA FRANKLIN
AAMBC Reviewer
A well-written and entertaining romantic novel.
SANDRA FRANKLIN
AAMBC Reviewer
October 1, 2023
A delicious and sizzling story!
Party girl, Marie Charles, will do anything to get attention for her Public Relations business. But driving drunk, hitting a tree and getting arrested is way over the line.
Celebrity Chef, Devon Harris, volunteers at my Sister's Keeper, a woman's shelter, as a tribute to his mother's memory, an abuse victim herself. But he never signed on to babysit, spoiled party girl, Marie.
Is this a cooking disaster about to blow up in Devon's face or a candle light dinner of love?
May 31, 2012
A very sensual read with a good message. You could tell from their first meeting Marie and Devon were going to be smoking hot. These two had a ton of chemistry, and every scene they were in together was just explosive and I couldn't put the book down. Marie started out a bit self absorbed, but by mid book she really turned it around. The love scenes between these two were on fire which I totally didn't expect, so it was a welcome surprise. I wouldn't mind reading a sequel about these two because they are set up to have a really great life together ahead of them.
July 27, 2020
A quick read for sure. So quick in fact, that issues seem to resolve in a page or two, tops. It was nice hearing some of their inner voices in a rational, adult tone acknowledging their feelings and whether those whether to listen to those voices or not. I may try one other read by this author, but I'm not going to go out of my way to find another book.
Definitely on the steamier side of romance novels, fyi.
Definitely on the steamier side of romance novels, fyi.
February 12, 2019
I'm so glad Marie changed her attitude, because I definitely wasn6feeling her. Devon is caring, strong and willing to give his time to others. It was a book that made you laugh and appreciate what you have. It always amazes me that people don't realize that being homeless doesn't mean you're a bum.
May 24, 2019
Very good book!
I enjoyed every bit of this story! This was great from beginning to end! It was great to catch up with the other characters also!
I enjoyed every bit of this story! This was great from beginning to end! It was great to catch up with the other characters also!
February 25, 2020
Great stuff
Good story, life can an alleged changing experience. Most people don't realize cit. Story was good, told well, great plot and easy to read.
Good story, life can an alleged changing experience. Most people don't realize cit. Story was good, told well, great plot and easy to read.
May 22, 2020
This was a good romance book. I liked how they each came into their own while discovering their love for each other.
June 10, 2021
Who knew
Who knew community service would bring love. Devon nor Marie were looking for love but found it. Enjoyed every page.
Who knew community service would bring love. Devon nor Marie were looking for love but found it. Enjoyed every page.
May 13, 2012
3.5 Stars
Mix one spoiled brat with a hidden big heart and one strong hunk of a man that knows what to do in a kitchen and what do you get? - A finger lickin’ good romance that is hot and steamy.
Devon Harris has it all. He has his own TV cooking show, a huge group of loving friends, and a cause he believes in. The cause close to his heart is My Sister’s Keeper, a homeless women’s shelter. For six months he has enjoyed teaching the women how to cook. For personal reasons all his own, this simple act of volunteering has filled a place in his heart. He never knew that agreeing to supervise non-violent female offenders doing their community service at the shelter would change his life forever.
Marie Charles has a reputation and it’s not for being quiet and demure. But she needs to be on her best behavior tonight. Her company has organized a large event for a major client and she can’t afford a scene. Then in walks her fiancé and on his arm is his ex-wife. Let’s just say Marie doesn’t take this laying down and by the end of the night, she is behind bars.
These two strong willed personalities clash from the very first conversation. They are like oil and water. Marie sees a whole new world during her community service. She begins to realize that her former way of life may not be the best for her and begins to make changes. Devon really likes the woman that he sees emerging.
I have to say first off that this is written like a standalone, but after a bit of research, it turns out Ms. Hodges has written other stories involving this circle of friends. I was rather disappointed. I love series and I really love reading them in order. Even though this is a standalone story, I felt jilted that I missed the rest of the friends’ blossoming relationships. I hate arriving late to a party.
I did rate this story on its merits alone. It is a very sweet yet sizzling read. It is a comforting kind of read. The plot is straightforward with no real twists or turns, just good old fashioned romance. But it is missing something for me that would have made it a great story. Maybe I like my stories with a touch of angst or a few hurdles that the couple needs to jump over. Recipe for Desire is very fairytale like. It definitely has a “feel good” feel to it.
This book is as tasty as the desserts that Devon is famous for. Recipe for Desire would make a perfect poolside/vacation read. It keeps you engaged, but doesn’t monopolize your thoughts. It just fills your heart with joy all the way to the brim. So sit back and take a bite out of this rich decadent treat.
Mix one spoiled brat with a hidden big heart and one strong hunk of a man that knows what to do in a kitchen and what do you get? - A finger lickin’ good romance that is hot and steamy.
Devon Harris has it all. He has his own TV cooking show, a huge group of loving friends, and a cause he believes in. The cause close to his heart is My Sister’s Keeper, a homeless women’s shelter. For six months he has enjoyed teaching the women how to cook. For personal reasons all his own, this simple act of volunteering has filled a place in his heart. He never knew that agreeing to supervise non-violent female offenders doing their community service at the shelter would change his life forever.
Marie Charles has a reputation and it’s not for being quiet and demure. But she needs to be on her best behavior tonight. Her company has organized a large event for a major client and she can’t afford a scene. Then in walks her fiancé and on his arm is his ex-wife. Let’s just say Marie doesn’t take this laying down and by the end of the night, she is behind bars.
These two strong willed personalities clash from the very first conversation. They are like oil and water. Marie sees a whole new world during her community service. She begins to realize that her former way of life may not be the best for her and begins to make changes. Devon really likes the woman that he sees emerging.
I have to say first off that this is written like a standalone, but after a bit of research, it turns out Ms. Hodges has written other stories involving this circle of friends. I was rather disappointed. I love series and I really love reading them in order. Even though this is a standalone story, I felt jilted that I missed the rest of the friends’ blossoming relationships. I hate arriving late to a party.
I did rate this story on its merits alone. It is a very sweet yet sizzling read. It is a comforting kind of read. The plot is straightforward with no real twists or turns, just good old fashioned romance. But it is missing something for me that would have made it a great story. Maybe I like my stories with a touch of angst or a few hurdles that the couple needs to jump over. Recipe for Desire is very fairytale like. It definitely has a “feel good” feel to it.
This book is as tasty as the desserts that Devon is famous for. Recipe for Desire would make a perfect poolside/vacation read. It keeps you engaged, but doesn’t monopolize your thoughts. It just fills your heart with joy all the way to the brim. So sit back and take a bite out of this rich decadent treat.
February 19, 2024
Recipe For Desire is a great well written love story. The characters and their lives are normal everyday living. Readers can definitely relate to the story. Cheris Hodges did a great job writing this story. The sentence structure was out of this world. The story never reared off course. If you love reading a story that will keep you up all night, Recipe For Desire is the book for you. It will leave you wanting to know what is going to happen next. This story is one of those stories that you don’t want to end.
Marie Charles is known throughout Charlotte as that rich spoiled girl. But, the more you get to know her the more you will learn that Marie has a heart of gold. She’s not as spoiled as everyone makes her out to be. Marie’s car accident is what lands her with a DWI arrest. But, was Marie even driving the car?
Devon Harris is a woman’s dream man. He made a mistake in his past. He’s also learned from that mistake. The chemistry between Marie & Charles is electrifying. It is evident to everyone around them. But, will Marie & Charles give in to a romance that is definitely blooming? Or will they both pass on their true love? Pick up your copy of Recipe For Desire to find out.
Cheris & Recipe For Desire both earn a high five and 5 stars.
Marie Charles is known throughout Charlotte as that rich spoiled girl. But, the more you get to know her the more you will learn that Marie has a heart of gold. She’s not as spoiled as everyone makes her out to be. Marie’s car accident is what lands her with a DWI arrest. But, was Marie even driving the car?
Devon Harris is a woman’s dream man. He made a mistake in his past. He’s also learned from that mistake. The chemistry between Marie & Charles is electrifying. It is evident to everyone around them. But, will Marie & Charles give in to a romance that is definitely blooming? Or will they both pass on their true love? Pick up your copy of Recipe For Desire to find out.
Cheris & Recipe For Desire both earn a high five and 5 stars.
March 1, 2012
Recipe for Desire Cheris Hodges
The socialite who hostesses big parties has made a scene with her fiancée and his ex-wife who he's hooked up with again.
On her way out her assistant is given her keys and told she will drive the drunken woman home. She gets into an accident, hitting a tree and ruining the car. The assistant runs away as ... stated she'd take the blame. Problem is her father is not going to help get her off. She goes to court with his attorney and is given 500 hours of community service and the probation officer puts her in touch with a chef that not only cooks at his restaurant but a woman’s shelter-teaching the woman how to cook. Marie will now help them run a charity dinner especially since she has firsthand knowledge of how it's all done.
Things heat up with Marie and Devon but his father's calls are getting to him and he doesn't want to share all that with Marie.
She feels more like giving now that she knows Devon's background so she cleans out her clothes and shoe collections and brings them to the shelter to give to those who will appreciate her gift.
With all the good cooking in this book I'm surprised there are no recipes. Except for the next book is enclosed.
The socialite who hostesses big parties has made a scene with her fiancée and his ex-wife who he's hooked up with again.
On her way out her assistant is given her keys and told she will drive the drunken woman home. She gets into an accident, hitting a tree and ruining the car. The assistant runs away as ... stated she'd take the blame. Problem is her father is not going to help get her off. She goes to court with his attorney and is given 500 hours of community service and the probation officer puts her in touch with a chef that not only cooks at his restaurant but a woman’s shelter-teaching the woman how to cook. Marie will now help them run a charity dinner especially since she has firsthand knowledge of how it's all done.
Things heat up with Marie and Devon but his father's calls are getting to him and he doesn't want to share all that with Marie.
She feels more like giving now that she knows Devon's background so she cleans out her clothes and shoe collections and brings them to the shelter to give to those who will appreciate her gift.
With all the good cooking in this book I'm surprised there are no recipes. Except for the next book is enclosed.
March 11, 2012
Recipe for Desire is the story of Devon Harris and Marie Charles. We all remember Devon Harris, the sexy chief and ex boyfriend of Kandice from Cheris Hodges other books. Marie Charles is a party girl that gets herself into trouble and she has to do community service at a Womens home under the direction of Devon. This is an excellent story that is very well writen that will keep you turning the pages and not able to put it down. Hodges is one of my all time favorite authors and she has yet to let me down with any of her work. If you love a great love story with a little bit of drama thrown in, and a couple of nosey, but loving, friends. This is the book for you. If you have not read any of the other books in this series, I strongly suggest that you do. Starting with my personal favorite couple, Maurice and Kenya in "Let's Get it On"! Happy
July 9, 2012
Recipe for Desire is a quick read because you’ll never want to put it down. We were introduced to Devon in an earlier novel, Betting on Love. In Recipe for Desire, it is time for the chef to find love with the most unexpected person, Marie James. This is definitely a feel good romance novel with a storyline that has substance. While reading this book I was often reminded that people have the ability to bring out the best or worst in us. I appreciate the way Cheris Hodges was able to convey a different perspective of women’s shelters and also bring awareness to their missions. Overall, this was a nice, easy read for me, and I give it four Pink Diamonds.
Sistah Tashmir
SistahFriend Book Club
Sistah Tashmir
SistahFriend Book Club
April 29, 2012
I am very impressed with this book. It is well written and I absolutely loved Marie (the it girl) and Devon (the chef). Marie is given community service and force to deal with her reckless life style, however, she learns valuable lessons such as putting others first, accountability, and love. Devon is the right man for her, she is accustom to getting everything she wants, however, he is not going to let her get her way or walk over him. He is the man she needs and she is the woman he needs to give his heart too. This is first book I read in this series…I will need to go back and read about Devon’s friends and past relationship with Kandice.
July 28, 2012
This is my first audiobook with all African-American characters. It was a different type of story to what I'm used to but it was different in a good way. This book had a message about helping others less fortunate, about not judging people without knowing them and that the important things in life can't be bought with money. Nice and entertaining...
The narrator was good too and very appropriate for the characters. She added emotions to the story although her male voices were just ok. I would try more books by this author and/or narrator.
The narrator was good too and very appropriate for the characters. She added emotions to the story although her male voices were just ok. I would try more books by this author and/or narrator.
February 23, 2012
I won an advance copy of this book and it was off the chain. Devon & Marie's relationship jumped off the pages during the initial meeting and it was a roller coaster ride to the end. Job well done Ms. Hodges
January 7, 2014
This was a great book"""""this book kept me interestered throughout the entire read....I love how Devon was a big helping hand to the shelter & I liked how Marie changed her attitude & her ways...I absolutely love their story!!!
March 12, 2012
Devon is the man! Love him! Great read, great romance! Devon was so sweet and I was so happy to see him bring out the best in Maria!
May 3, 2012
A deliciously YUMMY romantic treat...the chemistry between Marie & Devon is SIZZLING...it's also nice catching up with the Charlotte "gang"...and I'm eagerly awaiting Alicia's story.
June 6, 2012
A unique storyline, not the same old same old. I like how the heroine changed and grew.
July 5, 2012
Very cute love story.
October 27, 2012
Two (2) words .... LOVED IT!!!!
October 29, 2012
Great storyline. Loved it from beginning to end
July 25, 2016
This book was a really cute read.
July 29, 2012
Just finished reading, Recipe for Desire by Cheris Hodges. It was hot and sooooooo gooood.
May 7, 2015
I enjoyed this read & I'll be reading more of her work in the future.
March 9, 2016
This was a hot and steamy book, definitely a recipe for desire and chocolate for dessert.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews