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Appetite #1
A Cut Above the Rest
Alex always had it easy growing up, indulged by loving, but busy parents as he flitted from one interest to another without settling. Then he discovered the world of fine dining and became determined to be a chef capable of producing such magnificent meals. Despite the doubts of a father who limited his funds, and the difficulties of leaving Germany to live in the United States, Alex stuck to his new goal and graduated the Culinary Institute of America.
Fresh out of school, he is eager to begin work at the restaurant owned by a good friend of his father's, a restaurant well known for the beautiful, innovative meals its chefs create. He is primed to join the ranks of those masterful chefs—until the day he starts, and learns that he is nothing more than kitchen lackey, lower in rank than even the dishwashers.
Worse, his boss is none other than Nik, the beautiful, infuriating, highly talented classmate that Alex could never best—or resist.
Fresh out of school, he is eager to begin work at the restaurant owned by a good friend of his father's, a restaurant well known for the beautiful, innovative meals its chefs create. He is primed to join the ranks of those masterful chefs—until the day he starts, and learns that he is nothing more than kitchen lackey, lower in rank than even the dishwashers.
Worse, his boss is none other than Nik, the beautiful, infuriating, highly talented classmate that Alex could never best—or resist.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2013
2 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 4, 2013
I'm annoyed at myself for buying this knowing it was part of a series. I wanted enemies-to-lovers and I got enemies-to-barely flirting. I'm not sure I want to fork out $11 (that's 110 bloody South African rands) to see if they actually do get to have sex because there appears to be a third book in the series! I mean, good grief people! This is a pretty average story about two chefs sparing in the kitchen. It has UST by the bucketload and luscious descriptions of amazing meals (the author is clearly a fan of the Food Channel) but there is very little plot and not much character depth. So why the serialisation?
I feel used.
June 23, 2013
For a foodie like myself, this book, with all its descriptions of individual dishes, delicious meals, and inventive cuisine, was as much pure heaven (I wanted to try all of them), as it was hell (I was hungry most of the time!). But I think anyone who enjoys eating and is interested in the chefs in charge of preparing the kind meals we all dream of eating at restaurants will be able to enjoy this "course 1" of the series. With characters as colorful as their productions, and the fierce competition and passion between them, this book is a true delight for all the senses.
Alex comes from money, so they say, but he didn’t want to stay there. He's decided to become a chef, under his own steam, and has successfully survived the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. He managed to get a job at a prestigious restaurant, and expects great things. Nothing could be further from the truth. He is put to work as a kitchen boy, doing everyone else's prep work. He is not amused, but he makes enough blunders to begin to see that maybe he isn’t as ready as he thought he was. The biggest problem in all this is that Nik, his classmate and erstwhile rival at the institute, is a sous chef already. That just rankles!
Nik is a big enigma. I loved seeing him though Alex's eyes and learning more about him as the first few months of Alex's employment pass by. There is definitely an attraction between the two, but there is also rivalry and quite some bad blood. Alex cannot figure out why for the longest time, but when the explanation finally emerges, it makes sense. From then on things work out better between the two, even if Alex, who has asked Nik out and been rebuffed before, doesn't really know how to go about getting closer to Nik. The hot/cold act is enough to drive anyone crazy!
If you like stories with lots of background detail in the very interesting setting of a fine dining restaurant's kitchen, if you enjoy slow-moving relationships between men who clearly have a history they need to get over first, and if you're looking for a read that follows a young, ambitious man in his first steps of building a career, then you will probably like this novella. I definitely look forward to the next course of the series!
NOTE: This book was provided by Less Than Three Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Alex comes from money, so they say, but he didn’t want to stay there. He's decided to become a chef, under his own steam, and has successfully survived the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. He managed to get a job at a prestigious restaurant, and expects great things. Nothing could be further from the truth. He is put to work as a kitchen boy, doing everyone else's prep work. He is not amused, but he makes enough blunders to begin to see that maybe he isn’t as ready as he thought he was. The biggest problem in all this is that Nik, his classmate and erstwhile rival at the institute, is a sous chef already. That just rankles!
Nik is a big enigma. I loved seeing him though Alex's eyes and learning more about him as the first few months of Alex's employment pass by. There is definitely an attraction between the two, but there is also rivalry and quite some bad blood. Alex cannot figure out why for the longest time, but when the explanation finally emerges, it makes sense. From then on things work out better between the two, even if Alex, who has asked Nik out and been rebuffed before, doesn't really know how to go about getting closer to Nik. The hot/cold act is enough to drive anyone crazy!
If you like stories with lots of background detail in the very interesting setting of a fine dining restaurant's kitchen, if you enjoy slow-moving relationships between men who clearly have a history they need to get over first, and if you're looking for a read that follows a young, ambitious man in his first steps of building a career, then you will probably like this novella. I definitely look forward to the next course of the series!
NOTE: This book was provided by Less Than Three Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 1, 2018
For a foodie like myself, this book, with all its descriptions of individual dishes, delicious meals, and inventive cuisine, was as much pure heaven (I wanted to try all of them), as it was hell (I was hungry most of the time!). But I think anyone who enjoys eating and is interested in the chefs in charge of preparing the kind meals we all dream of eating at restaurants will be able to enjoy this "course 1" of the series. With characters as colorful as their productions, and the fierce competition and passion between them, this book is a true delight for all the senses.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 8, 2013
3.5 Stars
A Cut Above the Rest is the first book in the trilogy Appetite. As the first book turns out to be a slow introduction to the romance between Nik and Alex. This book served more as an introduction to their life in a fine dining restaurant's kitchen. You will get a lot of details about the meals they prepare and the work they do.
There's not a whole lot of romance on this book. Just some UST between Nik and Alex. They both have been attracted to each other since they met on their first day at the Culinary Institute of Arts. But Nik decided to ignore that attraction. Now, two years later, Alex is working under Nik and the attraction, and also rivalry, continues.
We get to know Alex better than Nik. Alex is actually a great guy. I loved that he is not a slut, not sleeping around at all. He is dedicated to his job and passion. Nik is a bit more of a mystery but you learn that he is very smart and shy when it comes to relationships.
Like I said this book has a bit of slow pace when it comes to the romance aspect of it. But if you are a foodie, or interested in food, you get lots of cool details that may keep you entertained. I look forward to the last two installments of this trilogy.
A Cut Above the Rest is the first book in the trilogy Appetite. As the first book turns out to be a slow introduction to the romance between Nik and Alex. This book served more as an introduction to their life in a fine dining restaurant's kitchen. You will get a lot of details about the meals they prepare and the work they do.
There's not a whole lot of romance on this book. Just some UST between Nik and Alex. They both have been attracted to each other since they met on their first day at the Culinary Institute of Arts. But Nik decided to ignore that attraction. Now, two years later, Alex is working under Nik and the attraction, and also rivalry, continues.
We get to know Alex better than Nik. Alex is actually a great guy. I loved that he is not a slut, not sleeping around at all. He is dedicated to his job and passion. Nik is a bit more of a mystery but you learn that he is very smart and shy when it comes to relationships.
Like I said this book has a bit of slow pace when it comes to the romance aspect of it. But if you are a foodie, or interested in food, you get lots of cool details that may keep you entertained. I look forward to the last two installments of this trilogy.
March 26, 2013
I had a little trouble believing Nik didn't realise Alex liked him. He asked him out just hours after they first met then several times after that before he finally gave up. Seriously? How thick are you, Nik? And it was hard to buy Alex as someone with two years of experience plus two years of culinary school when he made so very many mistakes that even I - who manages to burn all she touches - wouldn't make.
I came away from this book more hungry than happy. Lots of beautiful food detail, not much character development. I'm hoping the author fixes that in the next book.
I came away from this book more hungry than happy. Lots of beautiful food detail, not much character development. I'm hoping the author fixes that in the next book.
March 15, 2013
3.5*
I really enjoyed reading the book.
I got hungry reading the detailed description of the menu. LOL
Highly recommend to anyone who loves cooking and fine dining.
I really enjoyed reading the book.
I got hungry reading the detailed description of the menu. LOL
Highly recommend to anyone who loves cooking and fine dining.
January 11, 2023
DNF @ 32%
The writing style wasn't my cup of tea (there were a lot sentences with strange word order that made them sound awkward) but I could have gotten past that if I liked anything else. Unfortunately, I didn't.
1. The story is supposed to be enemies-to-lovers but the MCs are friendly and polite towards each other during their first post-school meeting, in the restaurant when Alex is eating dinner as a guest and Nik cooked for him. Their next interaction is during Alex's first day of working at the restaurant and yes, Nik does yell at him but that's because Alex was being a snotty dumbass. Essentially, Alex decided he knew how to prepare the potatoes he had to prep without asking Nik (who was going to cook the dish using the potatoes) and as a result, Alex wasted tons of potatoes and time. I felt Nik was completely justified in getting annoyed with him because Alex liked to tell everybody that he's a trained chef, so he would know that he needs clarification how to prep certain items. Anyway, this dynamic wasn't enemies to lovers so that was disappointing.
2. Speaking of Alex - he was unbearable. The guy is an entitled snob who thinks doing certain kitchen tasks (like peeling potatoes or washing dishes) is beneath him because the guy went to culinary school for 2 years. He waltzed into the restaurant with this attitude that he's way better than everybody else and he should get to become a line cook (if not a higher position) right off the bat. Never mind the dozens of other employees who have the exact same educational qualifications as him, are also competing for those same positions and have way more work experience than him. His attitude of 'well, somebody needs to wash dishes but it should be somebody else because he's too good to be washing dishes' really irritated me.
I also hated that he was hypocritical when it came to being a snob. Like how he thinks he's entitled to the finer things in life but when the hostess at the restaurant gave him a hard time for showing up in an ill-fitting suit, not wearing a tie and sweating, he acts like she's completely out of line. You know what would have solved the entire situation, Alex? If you had ordered a new suit, remembered your tie and saved up a bit of money to pay for cab fare. He could have done all of this in the weeks prior to his reservation, as he points out when he's already at the restaurant. He didn't do any of these things and he got butt hurt about the hostess' reaction but you just know that he'd look down his nose at somebody else who shows up under dressed at that restaurant. I can't stand characters like that. Maybe this was going to be part of his character development arc but the way he was written didn't work for me. He had essentially zero redeemable characteristics.
3. This was supposed to be a romance but the majority of the 32% I read was just food, food, food. The author went above and beyond to describe every single dish that was part of the story (including the 7 course tasting menu experience that Alex had at the restaurant). While I applaud the author's dedication to making the food basically a character of its own, I wanted the focus to be split more evenly. Based on other reviews, this heavy focus on food and light focus on romance continues throughout the story. If I didn't already dislike the story because of Alex, I would have stopped anyway because I would have gotten annoyed by the minimal focus on the romance.
The writing style wasn't my cup of tea (there were a lot sentences with strange word order that made them sound awkward) but I could have gotten past that if I liked anything else. Unfortunately, I didn't.
1. The story is supposed to be enemies-to-lovers but the MCs are friendly and polite towards each other during their first post-school meeting, in the restaurant when Alex is eating dinner as a guest and Nik cooked for him. Their next interaction is during Alex's first day of working at the restaurant and yes, Nik does yell at him but that's because Alex was being a snotty dumbass. Essentially, Alex decided he knew how to prepare the potatoes he had to prep without asking Nik (who was going to cook the dish using the potatoes) and as a result, Alex wasted tons of potatoes and time. I felt Nik was completely justified in getting annoyed with him because Alex liked to tell everybody that he's a trained chef, so he would know that he needs clarification how to prep certain items. Anyway, this dynamic wasn't enemies to lovers so that was disappointing.
2. Speaking of Alex - he was unbearable. The guy is an entitled snob who thinks doing certain kitchen tasks (like peeling potatoes or washing dishes) is beneath him because the guy went to culinary school for 2 years. He waltzed into the restaurant with this attitude that he's way better than everybody else and he should get to become a line cook (if not a higher position) right off the bat. Never mind the dozens of other employees who have the exact same educational qualifications as him, are also competing for those same positions and have way more work experience than him. His attitude of 'well, somebody needs to wash dishes but it should be somebody else because he's too good to be washing dishes' really irritated me.
I also hated that he was hypocritical when it came to being a snob. Like how he thinks he's entitled to the finer things in life but when the hostess at the restaurant gave him a hard time for showing up in an ill-fitting suit, not wearing a tie and sweating, he acts like she's completely out of line. You know what would have solved the entire situation, Alex? If you had ordered a new suit, remembered your tie and saved up a bit of money to pay for cab fare. He could have done all of this in the weeks prior to his reservation, as he points out when he's already at the restaurant. He didn't do any of these things and he got butt hurt about the hostess' reaction but you just know that he'd look down his nose at somebody else who shows up under dressed at that restaurant. I can't stand characters like that. Maybe this was going to be part of his character development arc but the way he was written didn't work for me. He had essentially zero redeemable characteristics.
3. This was supposed to be a romance but the majority of the 32% I read was just food, food, food. The author went above and beyond to describe every single dish that was part of the story (including the 7 course tasting menu experience that Alex had at the restaurant). While I applaud the author's dedication to making the food basically a character of its own, I wanted the focus to be split more evenly. Based on other reviews, this heavy focus on food and light focus on romance continues throughout the story. If I didn't already dislike the story because of Alex, I would have stopped anyway because I would have gotten annoyed by the minimal focus on the romance.
September 23, 2014
3.5 stars.
To start out, I liked how this book went, even if I wish the author had just taken the first three books and squished them all into one.
That said, the author did something that had me pulling out my hair in frustration. I don't know if the authors or editors deliberately kept this in, but to me it felt like the author forgot what she had previously written.
So aside from that point, I really liked the book and will probably continue on with the rest of the series. If the second book has a plot hole nearly that large though, I can pretty much guarantee I'll give up on it.
To start out, I liked how this book went, even if I wish the author had just taken the first three books and squished them all into one.
That said, the author did something that had me pulling out my hair in frustration. I don't know if the authors or editors deliberately kept this in, but to me it felt like the author forgot what she had previously written.
So aside from that point, I really liked the book and will probably continue on with the rest of the series. If the second book has a plot hole nearly that large though, I can pretty much guarantee I'll give up on it.
May 18, 2013
Might contain spoilers.
I'm not usually a fan of themes like cooking, or police, or medical and books focused on the professions of characters, in general, rather than on the romance in itself. But this story was unexpected, like a bland-looking dish (to keep it in the kitchen) that once you get a taste of, you can't eat fast enough(okay, I admit I read the excerpts and followed all Talya's blog tour, so I knew what I was getting myself into, so to speak; but you know what I mean). It was fantastic, and the word can't even begin to describe it. What amazed me the most is the amount of research that went with it, yet the author didn't flood the reader with too much info; just enough to make it tasty. The characters were both the kind you'd want cuddle until you make them choke. Adorable. I must confess, though, that I was pissed I didn't get to read at least one perfect kiss scene. So frustrating! Talya, better give me a kiss in the second book or I'll haunt you in my afterlife.
I'm not usually a fan of themes like cooking, or police, or medical and books focused on the professions of characters, in general, rather than on the romance in itself. But this story was unexpected, like a bland-looking dish (to keep it in the kitchen) that once you get a taste of, you can't eat fast enough(okay, I admit I read the excerpts and followed all Talya's blog tour, so I knew what I was getting myself into, so to speak; but you know what I mean). It was fantastic, and the word can't even begin to describe it. What amazed me the most is the amount of research that went with it, yet the author didn't flood the reader with too much info; just enough to make it tasty. The characters were both the kind you'd want cuddle until you make them choke. Adorable. I must confess, though, that I was pissed I didn't get to read at least one perfect kiss scene. So frustrating! Talya, better give me a kiss in the second book or I'll haunt you in my afterlife.
September 9, 2013
Definitely a taste of things to come.
I suspect you will need to read the whole series to get completion. If you're not a fan of cliffhangers, this won't be a book for you. It would be a shame though, because it's a very fun tease of a story.
There's a lot of delicious food talk in here and it ties in well with the developing relationship between Alex and Nik. I liked watching Alex develop and grow. It was nice to see him set aside his ego and come from a place of pride in a job well done.
This is a relationship on slow burn and it will be interesting to see where the next book takes it.
I suspect you will need to read the whole series to get completion. If you're not a fan of cliffhangers, this won't be a book for you. It would be a shame though, because it's a very fun tease of a story.
There's a lot of delicious food talk in here and it ties in well with the developing relationship between Alex and Nik. I liked watching Alex develop and grow. It was nice to see him set aside his ego and come from a place of pride in a job well done.
This is a relationship on slow burn and it will be interesting to see where the next book takes it.
March 14, 2013
I can't help but give this story a clear 5 star rating...reaching the last page, I had a huge smile on my face when I saw the "to be continued". This books is a culinary masterpiece, with a healthy dose of rivalry, and the blushing beginnings of a romance. My only complaint is that it was not longer!! Now I have to wait forever for the next book. Oh, and another complaint...I want Gunther and Florian to also fall in love....with each other:D Thank you Talya for a well written book that ticked all the boxes. I can't wait for the next installment.
March 23, 2013
I can't tell you how amazing this book is, because you're going to have to read it to understand. I love reading books that open up new worlds, and this one doesn't fail to deliver. Welcome to the world of high class restaurants with gourmet food; best of all, the author never leaves you behind. While the names and terms are many, each one is explained along the way so the reader doesn't get lost. This isn't a quick love story by any means, but it is an excellent one. I can hardly wait for the next book!
November 17, 2013
It was a fun read! The supporting characters were fleshed out and I "got" them as much as the main characters. I enjoyed Florian's teasing banter of the new guy in the kitchen. I liked that not everything was perfect and given to Alex on a silver spoon. It captured how men can be clueless, which is fun to read.
April 12, 2014
the writing is very good but there's way too much exposition & very little romantic growth. i know it's only the first book in the series, but the blurb for the 2nd book sounds like the romance isn't going to blossom until the third...and i just can't be teased that long.
less about food, more about love, please
less about food, more about love, please
September 19, 2013
What a nice start of the series! I really like Ms. Andor's writing and this was another joy to read. Off to start part 2.
August 31, 2021
Yep, I am a midwest girl, had to look up what they heck is amuse bouche of foie gras in a fennel-anise honey gastrique topped with a peach relish.
The story was okay, just did not really see the passion the characters had for one another.
The story was okay, just did not really see the passion the characters had for one another.
April 10, 2018
I rather enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more, but I wasn't in the right frame of mind to continue the series at the time (I'm in the midst of tax season at work). This was a strong start though, with interesting characters, most especially Alex whom I found quite relatable despite the fact that there are no similarities to me personally. I found myself invested in his life and career, and understanding his choices and reactions. Very European feel to him and loved that he's a German, I found that to be a great detail that added to the story.
Nik is a multi faced person, hard to get a read on, he's very serious about his job, but he also has moments where he makes mistakes, despite his high standards, or he flirts then gets embarrassed, and when he goes to the club he's a whole different guy. Looking forward to reading more about him.
Looking forward to reading more on these two!
Nik is a multi faced person, hard to get a read on, he's very serious about his job, but he also has moments where he makes mistakes, despite his high standards, or he flirts then gets embarrassed, and when he goes to the club he's a whole different guy. Looking forward to reading more about him.
Looking forward to reading more on these two!
April 30, 2013
Everything I ever dreamed of has come to life in one book. I am in love! I have literally been dreaming about this book and craving the next one like you wouldn’t believe.
First of all, you have to understand that I am passionate about food. I also have a slight obsession with the show Top Chef. I’ve seen every episode from every season of both the USA and Canadian versions. When a book comes out which can indulge my love for MM romance, as well as give me culinary porn, it’s a dream come true. I promise you, I’m not using the term culinary porn lightly either. The first chapter is entirely devoted to Alex eating a meal. You get to experience every step of the meal, from the initial feel of the restaurant through each course’s artistic presentation and then delving into its mouth-feel and flavor combination. Admittedly, even I found it a bit strange at first, but it didn’t take long for me to be fully immersed in everything I was reading. I knew I was in for something special.
Alex and Nik have been rivals ever since culinary school. There has always been an underlying attraction, but it has been overshadowed by their constant competition with each other to be the best. The tension between Alex and Nik is tangible. It’s very rare for me to cross the line which separates sympathizing with the characters from actually feeling their emotions. I was way over that line with this book. I felt the angst, humiliation, and confusion Alex experienced as he began his first job as a fine dining chef. The humbling experience of having his pride and confidence stripped away, and then having it slowly rebuilt with each small achievement or nod of approval was utter perfection. I was able to share in every step of the experience, and I loved it.
All the while Alex is striving to prove his worth as a chef, there is a romance brewing under the surface. An initial attraction had been there all along, but their rivalry and derision in culinary school killed any notions of acting upon it. In the professional environment, the underlying attraction increases and the possibility of a romance slowly builds until it hits the point where you know something is finally going to happen. The build up of that anticipation was fantastic. It would have been perfect, if only it hadn’t ended with a “To be continued…” I couldn’t be too upset about the cliffhanger ending though, because I loved everything else leading up to that point.
Despite my love for it, I wouldn’t recommend A Cut Above the Rest to everyone. It definitely needs a reader who is more than a touch on the foodie side. If that’s you, then you have got to read this book. It is amazing!
First of all, you have to understand that I am passionate about food. I also have a slight obsession with the show Top Chef. I’ve seen every episode from every season of both the USA and Canadian versions. When a book comes out which can indulge my love for MM romance, as well as give me culinary porn, it’s a dream come true. I promise you, I’m not using the term culinary porn lightly either. The first chapter is entirely devoted to Alex eating a meal. You get to experience every step of the meal, from the initial feel of the restaurant through each course’s artistic presentation and then delving into its mouth-feel and flavor combination. Admittedly, even I found it a bit strange at first, but it didn’t take long for me to be fully immersed in everything I was reading. I knew I was in for something special.
Alex and Nik have been rivals ever since culinary school. There has always been an underlying attraction, but it has been overshadowed by their constant competition with each other to be the best. The tension between Alex and Nik is tangible. It’s very rare for me to cross the line which separates sympathizing with the characters from actually feeling their emotions. I was way over that line with this book. I felt the angst, humiliation, and confusion Alex experienced as he began his first job as a fine dining chef. The humbling experience of having his pride and confidence stripped away, and then having it slowly rebuilt with each small achievement or nod of approval was utter perfection. I was able to share in every step of the experience, and I loved it.
All the while Alex is striving to prove his worth as a chef, there is a romance brewing under the surface. An initial attraction had been there all along, but their rivalry and derision in culinary school killed any notions of acting upon it. In the professional environment, the underlying attraction increases and the possibility of a romance slowly builds until it hits the point where you know something is finally going to happen. The build up of that anticipation was fantastic. It would have been perfect, if only it hadn’t ended with a “To be continued…” I couldn’t be too upset about the cliffhanger ending though, because I loved everything else leading up to that point.
Despite my love for it, I wouldn’t recommend A Cut Above the Rest to everyone. It definitely needs a reader who is more than a touch on the foodie side. If that’s you, then you have got to read this book. It is amazing!
August 30, 2016
If books are my first love, with beautiful boys coming a close second, my passion for everything culinary isn’t far behind. I might not be much of a cook, but I adore trying new and exotic food, not to mention watching stunning dishes being prepared, hence my addiction to shows such as ‘MasterChef’ and ‘Great British Bake Off’. It’s little wonder then that this opening course in the ‘Appetite’ series by Talya Andor had me licking my lips in anticipation. A book that combines fine dining and sexy young men? It doesn’t get better than that.
German-born Alex has always had it easy. The third son of rich parents, he has been given free rein to pursue his own interests and the money to finance them. Now, however, fresh out of the Culinary Institute of America, Alex is determined to make it on his own in the exclusive world of fine dining. When a family connection lands him a job in the kitchen of a fashionable New York restaurant, he fully expects his talents to be recognized from the outset. Alex is immensely put out, therefore, to be beginning his career peeling potatoes.
Still more galling, Nik, Alex’s rival from culinary school, has already gained the position as sous chef, despite graduating only a place above him. Working under Nik is both humiliating and uncomfortable, especially when Nik continually blows hot and cold towards him. Then there’s the fact that Alex has been attracted to Nik from their initial encounter. Although Nik has always rebuffed any advances, Alex sometimes glimpses a spark of desire in his eyes that lets him know Nik wants him too. The challenge will be overcoming their fierce rivalry, and coaxing Nik to lower his guard enough to admit his feelings.
‘A Cut Above the Rest’ is a quick read, spiced up with plenty of combative dialogue and sizzling with sexual tension. The chemistry between Alex and Nik is evident the entire way through, both in the kitchen and out. Unsurprisingly, though, what I enjoyed most about this novella was the wonderful descriptions of the restaurant menu. So vivid I could almost taste the food on my tongue, they had my mouth watering and my stomach rumbling from start to finish.
German-born Alex has always had it easy. The third son of rich parents, he has been given free rein to pursue his own interests and the money to finance them. Now, however, fresh out of the Culinary Institute of America, Alex is determined to make it on his own in the exclusive world of fine dining. When a family connection lands him a job in the kitchen of a fashionable New York restaurant, he fully expects his talents to be recognized from the outset. Alex is immensely put out, therefore, to be beginning his career peeling potatoes.
Still more galling, Nik, Alex’s rival from culinary school, has already gained the position as sous chef, despite graduating only a place above him. Working under Nik is both humiliating and uncomfortable, especially when Nik continually blows hot and cold towards him. Then there’s the fact that Alex has been attracted to Nik from their initial encounter. Although Nik has always rebuffed any advances, Alex sometimes glimpses a spark of desire in his eyes that lets him know Nik wants him too. The challenge will be overcoming their fierce rivalry, and coaxing Nik to lower his guard enough to admit his feelings.
‘A Cut Above the Rest’ is a quick read, spiced up with plenty of combative dialogue and sizzling with sexual tension. The chemistry between Alex and Nik is evident the entire way through, both in the kitchen and out. Unsurprisingly, though, what I enjoyed most about this novella was the wonderful descriptions of the restaurant menu. So vivid I could almost taste the food on my tongue, they had my mouth watering and my stomach rumbling from start to finish.
November 16, 2014
Sometimes even technically well written books don't work for you. This is one. The writing is good but the plot didn't work.
Alex Koch is recently graduated from culinary school and begins working in NY at a prestigious restaurant. A transplant form Germany he wants to make it big and goes to dinner at his restaurant the day before he begins to take in the foot. There he sees Nik, someone from his class that Alex always had a bit of a rivalry going with, one where Nik almost always came out on top. He didn't know Nik was working at the restaurant too and is stunned to find out Nik is a sous chef, not a lowly line and prep cook like Alex.
I imagine if you are a foodie, like to cook, and enjoy cooking shows, the descriptions of the food and will amaze you. It lost me and much of it sounded unpalatable. But I freely admit I eat to live not live to eat and would give it up to plug myself into the wall if I could.
The depictions of how an upscale kitchen are run were well written. The story protrays in great detail many of the mistakes Alex makes as he finds his place in that kitchen. Problem is that is mostly all we see. Any positives are glossed over and when Alex is finally promoted I couldn't help but wonder why because all we ever witnessed was his mistakes.
The romance is completely nonexistent. I love slow burn but this didn't even get luke warm. Alex has had a crush on Nik for some time, even asked him out in school but was turned down. Now that Alex works for Nik the idea is off the table but that doesn't stop Alex from wishing and from Nik giving him the occasional interested look. At the end we learn that Nik is leaving for a job in a different restaurant. Alex is happy now free to ask Nik out and does. And this is where the story lost me forever. Basically Nik tells Alex he (Alex) is not good enough to date Nik. Only if Alex is more successful as a chef will he be datable. I'm sure that's not what was intended but honestly, I saw no chemistry between the two and think Alex can do so much better than Nik.
Overall, just not my cup of tea
Alex Koch is recently graduated from culinary school and begins working in NY at a prestigious restaurant. A transplant form Germany he wants to make it big and goes to dinner at his restaurant the day before he begins to take in the foot. There he sees Nik, someone from his class that Alex always had a bit of a rivalry going with, one where Nik almost always came out on top. He didn't know Nik was working at the restaurant too and is stunned to find out Nik is a sous chef, not a lowly line and prep cook like Alex.
I imagine if you are a foodie, like to cook, and enjoy cooking shows, the descriptions of the food and will amaze you. It lost me and much of it sounded unpalatable. But I freely admit I eat to live not live to eat and would give it up to plug myself into the wall if I could.
The depictions of how an upscale kitchen are run were well written. The story protrays in great detail many of the mistakes Alex makes as he finds his place in that kitchen. Problem is that is mostly all we see. Any positives are glossed over and when Alex is finally promoted I couldn't help but wonder why because all we ever witnessed was his mistakes.
The romance is completely nonexistent. I love slow burn but this didn't even get luke warm. Alex has had a crush on Nik for some time, even asked him out in school but was turned down. Now that Alex works for Nik the idea is off the table but that doesn't stop Alex from wishing and from Nik giving him the occasional interested look. At the end we learn that Nik is leaving for a job in a different restaurant. Alex is happy now free to ask Nik out and does. And this is where the story lost me forever. Basically Nik tells Alex he (Alex) is not good enough to date Nik. Only if Alex is more successful as a chef will he be datable. I'm sure that's not what was intended but honestly, I saw no chemistry between the two and think Alex can do so much better than Nik.
Overall, just not my cup of tea
April 19, 2013
This is the book not to be read at night as it will most likely send you straight to your fridge looking for food. The food descriptions here were enough to make me hungry that I stopped after a few pages when I start reading the night before.
The inner works of the find dining kitchen depicted in the book sounds authentic. Alex's naiveté regarding his duties when his expectations was shattered by reality seemed realistic with Alex's background and upbringing. Regardless, it was admirable of Alex to make an effort to try to make a life on his own.
Nik was somewhat an enigma. So far we only saw him from Alex's POV so we did not know his history. It was, indeed, difficult to understand why Nik would think that Alex hated him. Even if the author justified this by having their co-workers commented the same thing.
This book did not follow the usual pace of other romance novels that I have read in
It was an interesting read. It was not a *fun* read for me but rather interesting. I curious to see how the sequel will turn out.
The inner works of the find dining kitchen depicted in the book sounds authentic. Alex's naiveté regarding his duties when his expectations was shattered by reality seemed realistic with Alex's background and upbringing. Regardless, it was admirable of Alex to make an effort to try to make a life on his own.
Nik was somewhat an enigma. So far we only saw him from Alex's POV so we did not know his history. It was, indeed, difficult to understand why Nik would think that Alex hated him. Even if the author justified this by having their co-workers commented the same thing.
This book did not follow the usual pace of other romance novels that I have read in
It was an interesting read. It was not a *fun* read for me but rather interesting. I curious to see how the sequel will turn out.
October 23, 2015
As someone who enjoys cooking shows, Anthony Bourdain, and food in general, I was intrigued by a romance set in the culinary world yet wary that it might be too romanticized for my taste. While the book wasn't as gritty as part of me hoped it'd be, it didn't feel too whitewashed either.
The romance between Alex, the protagonist, and Nik, his love interest, has its foundations during their time in culinary school prior to the novel's events. I found Alex annoyingly naive at a few points, but overall he's a good narrator and a likable guy. Nik is a bit mysterious, but not impenetrably so. The tension between the two of them is excellent, though it doesn't progress into A Relationship or any sex scenes over the course of this book. I admit, I'm also rather fond of Nik because he's repeatedly described as androgynous, which is a nice change from the Manly Men types one often sees in romance.
I give the author kudos for making the main character bisexual and handling it quite well; it's neither minimized nor made into a big deal. Additionally, unlike so much media, the author paints a realistic picture of living in NYC when making relatively little money. Alex lives on a couch in a two-bedroom apartment with three roommates, and seems to be at work the vast majority of the time.
Overall, the world felt fleshed out, and while none of the secondary characters felt compelling to me, they played their roles well.
If you're looking for a slowly building romance, gorgeous descriptions of food, and a light-hearted love story, I strongly recommend A Cut Above the Rest. I'll be starting the sequel tomorrow, and I look forward to continuing the series.
The romance between Alex, the protagonist, and Nik, his love interest, has its foundations during their time in culinary school prior to the novel's events. I found Alex annoyingly naive at a few points, but overall he's a good narrator and a likable guy. Nik is a bit mysterious, but not impenetrably so. The tension between the two of them is excellent, though it doesn't progress into A Relationship or any sex scenes over the course of this book. I admit, I'm also rather fond of Nik because he's repeatedly described as androgynous, which is a nice change from the Manly Men types one often sees in romance.
I give the author kudos for making the main character bisexual and handling it quite well; it's neither minimized nor made into a big deal. Additionally, unlike so much media, the author paints a realistic picture of living in NYC when making relatively little money. Alex lives on a couch in a two-bedroom apartment with three roommates, and seems to be at work the vast majority of the time.
Overall, the world felt fleshed out, and while none of the secondary characters felt compelling to me, they played their roles well.
If you're looking for a slowly building romance, gorgeous descriptions of food, and a light-hearted love story, I strongly recommend A Cut Above the Rest. I'll be starting the sequel tomorrow, and I look forward to continuing the series.
May 1, 2015
3.5 stars.
To start out, I liked how this book went, even if I wish the author had just taken the first three books and squished them all into one.
That said, the author did something that had me pulling out my hair in frustration. I don't know if the authors or editors deliberately kept this in, but to me it felt like the author forgot what she had previously written.
So aside from that point, I really liked the book and will probably continue on with the rest of the series. If the second book has a plot hole nearly that large though, I can pretty much guarantee I'll give up on it.
To start out, I liked how this book went, even if I wish the author had just taken the first three books and squished them all into one.
That said, the author did something that had me pulling out my hair in frustration. I don't know if the authors or editors deliberately kept this in, but to me it felt like the author forgot what she had previously written.
So aside from that point, I really liked the book and will probably continue on with the rest of the series. If the second book has a plot hole nearly that large though, I can pretty much guarantee I'll give up on it.
March 30, 2013
This book is just an absolute treasure! I adored Nik & Alex, and loved watching their rivalry/sorta friendship/co-worker relationship/mutual interest develop over the course of this story. The beautiful way Talya weaves their story in amongst the creation of all this delicious food had me spellbound throughout. This book is so well researched and presented, I feel like I'm getting a cooking lesson with a double side of love story and hopefully a dash of sex, and it's wonderful! I think I gained 3 lbs. I can almost smell the food they are preparing and I can certainly feel the heat in the kitchen, oven and otherwise. To know this is a Part One of a series makes me utterly happy - I cannot wait to see what's in store for these two boys. That kiss at the end? Made me tingle right down to my toes. And I don't tingle easily these days. ;) There is so much want between these two characters - want of expertise & recognition, and want of each other. They are both so incredibly passionate & I can't wait for more!! FEED ME!
July 11, 2014
I really liked the way it was written. The main character is flawed (very humanly so) and his drive is rather simple: becoming a great chef. This isn't a heroic quest to save the world or to solve a murder. The guys in this book are just trying to be the best at their jobs and make delicious food. The descriptions made my mouth water and I had to google several dishes and ingredients. It reminded me a bit of the manga (and movie) Antique Bakery.
There is no sex in this book, but there are a few almost kisses,ever increasing sexual tension and in the end a real kiss (finally!).
There is no sex in this book, but there are a few almost kisses,ever increasing sexual tension and in the end a real kiss (finally!).
August 18, 2013
Nezinau nezinau.Hm...nepatiko,pradzia uzmusanti su savo nuovodzia MC biografija,veliau net patiekalu gaminimas man apetito nesukele(oas zmogus,kuris skaitydamas apie maista,visada eina atgaminti patiekala arba ji uzsisakyti),toliau romantika...zinau,kad kiekvienas turi savo suvokima ks tai yra,bet bln cia jos nebuvo...sexas?kuku kur tu,vienas bucinys,pfff,nesiskaito,ok dar vienas buvo,bet toks menkutis,kad jo net neuzsakitau...
May 17, 2016
For me this book had a serious lack of romance, which is odd for a romance book. Since it is part of a serious the actual romance seems to be in the second or third book. The only romance you got in this book is the last few pages, which works as a cliffhanger. But the story didn't grab me enough so I don't think I will be reading the next book in the series. All I read was a story about cooking and working in a kitchen (which I know all about since I work in a kitchen myself).
August 7, 2015
I'm hard to please when it comes to rivals-to-lovers stories, and this one just didn't do it for me. The high-stress environment at the beginning of the book honestly started making me feel stressed, Nik just came off as a jerk for the first half of the book, and the descriptions of the food got a little bit overboard at times. Good writing, but I was glad this was a pretty short one. Won't be continuing this series.
March 11, 2018
Food is one of my favorite theme. From the book I learned a lot of fine dining, which is not familiar. Though I was a little bit overwhelmed by numerous of ingredients vocab, the story happened in kitchen of fine dining restaurant was still enchanting.
For those who are not satisfied with the ending of this book, I will suggest you to keep going for the next one~ I am fully enjoying it right now :)
For those who are not satisfied with the ending of this book, I will suggest you to keep going for the next one~ I am fully enjoying it right now :)
September 25, 2013
Well paced and interesting. I like watching cooking shows and stuff so it was fun reading about how passionate the MC's were about their professions. Romance-wise the story was quite slow and I wished there was a bit more there. The ending was nice and it made me want to read the next installment to see the progression of Alex and Nik's relationship.
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