Taste the Heat

Love and Games #1

by Rachel Harris

One sexy fire captain. One Cajun chef, One combustible kitchen…

When chef Colby Robicheaux returned home to New Orleans to save her family restaurant, the last person she expected to reconnect with was her brother’s best friend and her childhood crush. As tempting as a sugar-coated beignet, Jason is one dish she doesn’t want to taste. Colby is counting down the days till she can leave the place where her distrust of love and commitment originated and go back to Vegas.

Fire captain Jason Landry isn’t looking for love, either. He knows he should focus on finding the perfect mother for his daughter, but when he first sees Colby, all grown up and gorgeous, he can’t help but be drawn to her. And when she suggests a no-strings-attached fling, Jason doesn’t want to say no.

As their relationship grows more intense, Colby finds that Jason isn’t as easy to leave behind as she thought. Could turning up the heat on something real be worth the possibility of getting burned?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Adult, Chick Lit, New Adult, Cooking

191 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 8, 2013

About the author

New York Times & USA Today bestselling author Rachel Harris writes humorous love stories about girls-next-door and the hot guys that make them swoon. Vibrant settings, witty banter, and strong relationships are a staple in each of her books...and kissing. Lots of kissing. Rachel's books have been featured in USA Today and Glitter Magazine, and her stories have been finalists in the National Reader's Choice Award, the Holt Medallion Award, and The Golden Quill.

For the latest news & exclusive excerpts, visit her website at www.RachelHarrisWrites.com and sign up for her NEWSLETTER: http://eepurl.com/olH75

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm the author, so I'm biased...but seriously, I love this book! Set in my hometown of New Orleans, it celebrates my favorite things about the city: food, culture, family...and heat :)

Can't wait for y'all to meet the Robicheaux family, Cane, Colby, and Sherry, three siblings who run a Cajun restaurant and tease each other as fiercely as they love. And in this book, I hope you fall in love with chef Colby and Fire Captain Jason Landry as much as I have.

[Ayekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this story! Colby has to return home to small town near Nola to help with her family's restaurant that is floundering since the death of her father. Colby left town over 10 years ago to become a chef and has her own successful restaurant in Las Vegas. Saying she doesn't want to be home is an understatement. No one knows but Colby why she left town and never returned with the rare exception for funerals. Her brother Cain keeps the books and paperwork going, her younger sister Sherry waits tables and keeps the front in check, but they lack a proper chef. Colby's first little duty in to judge a firefighter cook off and it's there she sees Jason, her teenage crush and brothers best friend. She gingerly does the taste tasting and declares Jason the winner. Colby isn't aware that Jason is now a single dad raising his 11 year old daughter. Jason is attracted to Colby, Colby of course to Jason, but Colby has an endgame in sight, she is only staying until the end of summer. To get the family restaurant back on it's feet, get the kitchen in order and leaving as soon as she can.
She doesn't plan on falling for Jason and his 11 year old daughter who loves playing matchmaker. Em needs a woman in her life but Jason having lost the love of his life isn't willing to risk himself again.
Colby and Jason each have their own secrets. Slowly they open up to each other. Meanwhile trying to manage the restaurant and respective jobs. Colby's made some noticeable changes in the Robicheaux
menu and people are talking, she's added some Italian dishes and dropped some of the local cajun favorites. The recipes she learned at her father's side while growing up, those she learned to perfect.
There's a reason why Colby won't cook her father's recipes. A reason only she knows. While Jason is determined to make Colby fall back in love with the food that she loves but refuses to serve, we watch as their relationship unfolds, along with Cain giving his best friend his sternest warning about Colby and the ever growing affection between Colby and Em.
Stellar writing, an amazing love story; one woven with secrets and pain and set in one of my favorite foodie places, it's a must read. That said, it's worth reading again. One you'll want to keep on your shelf. I'm so looking forward to reading Cain's story.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel is awesome and writes nice things. <3

~~~

This book had me at "One sexy fire captain." Because, come on. Uniform. Hehehe. But seriously, this book looked good. I've had my eye on it ever since I'd learned it, you know, EXISTED. IT looked sweet and AWESOME and I waaaaaaaaanted it. Grabby hands everywhere. But then I got it and I read it and...

My dearest Rachel Harris, I love you. THIS BOOK IS AMAZING.

I read more YA and NA than adult. That's just how it is. Adult books have to look REALLY good for me to even read them. But this one caught my attention, kept me excited while I waited, and then made me so incredibly happy when I sat down to actually read it. *happy dance*

Character Rundown:
Colby: I love this girl's name. I also love her interactions with Emma and her siblings. I wasn't a fan of her insecurities, BUT wanting her to have none would be silly. We all get insecure sometimes. So, pretty much, Colby is real. And I liked it.

Jason: Excuse me for a moment, because I am STILL SWOONING. Man, when Rachel wrote this guy, she did it RIGHT. He is responsible and kind, and made me fall for him so incredibly quick. He's a wonderful father and incredibly smexy, too. I am most definitely a fan. <3

Plot. I am now professing my undying love for Rachel's writing. This is the first book I've read by Rachel Harris but definitely not the last. This story had a marvelous beginning, middle, and end that was easy to follow, but never got boring. Rachel's attention to detail was very nice, as well. Especially when it came to talking about food. Because, you know, I like food. A lot.

Romance. Watching these MC's fall in looooooooooove was awesome. They are so great together. As I said, Jason is totally swoon worthy, and Colby is definitely worth his attention. I APPROVE OF THIS RELATIONSHIP. I also love how they were so good about working things out with maturity, considering there WAS Emma. She was not to be ignored.

The ending. The menu was so cute. I smiled so hard when I clicked to the next page and saw that. (Don't know what I'm talking about? Gee, maybe you should read the book and find out...) ;)

Overall, Taste the Heat made me all kinds of happy. The guy was swoon-worthy, the girl didn't make me facepalm, and the story was fantastic from beginning to end. High five, Rachel Harris!

You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! I want a Jason for myself! He was sweet and romantic and all those good things women want in a man :)

This was my first book by Rachel Harris and won't be my last. She has a great writing style. Not to mention I love when authors make me feel at home by having their stories set in Cajun country, since that's where I'm from :)

[♡Julalicious Book Paradise♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

review to come.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

Review to come soon. When I can do more than just this: :D :D :D :D <3 <3 <3 <3 Jason, Jason, Jason, JASON.

(The real review now:)

Now that the initial giggly, big cheesy grin phase is over- I can finally write my review! I think I might have even squealed out loud a few times in this book. I am a new member of Rachel's Flirt Squad (Wooo!) and when I saw that she had a form to sign up to read this one early- I couldn't resist! I loved reading Rachel's teasers for all of her novels, so I already knew I liked her writing style. If you are looking for a good, sweet romance- this is definitely the book to pick up.


I've never been to New Orleans, but let me tell you- Rachel does an incredible job with the setting of this novel. I felt like she described Magnolia Springs perfectly and I could visualize the small town feel that it gave off. When I can actually picture my surroundings, I know the author has done a great job of pulling me in.


I LOVE the characters. Colby, a big time chef in Vegas, returns home to help her brother and sister out at their family restaurant. Colby hasn't been back home in years because of some things that happened in the past. I instantly liked that Colby was able to push aside her personal demons to help out her siblings. It just shows you that no matter how painful her memories are, she would drop everything to help them out. And I think that shows a lot of character. Colby used to be a dreamer- she believed in fairy tale endings and everlasting love. After being burned by love and being betrayed by the one person she never thought would hurt her, she has sworn off the whole idea of it. Ever since she was younger Colby has harbored a secret crush on Jason Landry, her older brother's best friend. Upon her return to Magnolia Springs, Jason does not immediately recognize her, but finds himself completely attracted to this woman. Upon later discovering who she is, he knows he should back off and stay away, yet he can't.


Sigh. Jason. He is completely dreamy. Yes, I said dreamy. I have said it once and I'll say it again- Good guys always win for me. And Jason is a GOOD guy. He is an amazing father to his daughter, he is loyal to his friends and family, and is a responsible adult. As a single father, he has done a great job of raising his daughter Emma, but as she gets older he is finding she really needs a female figure in her life. The only problem? Jason loved his wife. He knows no one can ever replace her and he is unsure that he will ever find love again. This is partly the reason that he ends up agreeing to a no strings arrangement with Colby. Both are attracted to one another and there's definite chemistry between them. What could it hurt? However, the more time the two spend together, the more they realize that what was just supposed to be a summer fling, is turning into a whole lot more.


Emma is Jason's 11 year old daughter and is adorable. She adores her father and for an 11 year old kid is pretty intuitive. She wants him to be happy and find love again and Emma just so happens to bond with Colby. Colby says she could not be a surrogate mother, yet her nurturing tendencies are so natural for her. She can't say no to Emma when she invites her to family events and makes Colby feel like a part of the family. Emma playing matchmaker is TOO cute.


I really liked Cane and Sherry, Colby's brother and sister too. Sherry is a fun character- she's that nosy little sister who loves to be up in your business, but really has a good heart and wants what's best for her sister. Cane is your overprotective big brother. He comes across as a bit of a tough guy, but once you hear about him and Emma, (who is his goddaughter) he's a big old teddy bear! I cannot wait to read his story next! Cane makes it very clear to Jason that he does not want his sister hurt and best friend or not- he will come after him if he does. :D (I always wanted a big brother for that reason!)


Taste The Heat is a beautiful love story about two people who aren't looking for love at all- but realize their feelings for each other are anything but casual. Add in the small town feel of Magnolia Springs, a little Cajun cooking, and a whole lot of steam- you've got yourself an awesome summer read!


Oh. Once you finish the book, this will be you: :) :) :) :) <3 <3 <3 <3 <3

[Autumn Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taste the Heat was everything I look for in my books. It was fun, flirty, and a little spicy. I loved the characters and I loved their story. I loved getting to know Colby and Jason so much, that I wasn't ready for it to be over!

I liked Colby right away. She's simply, a likable character. Colby is a well- known chef. She has returned home after her father's death to help with the family restaurant. Her siblings are there to help too, but they definitely needed Colby there. Of course, returning home means that she's also likely to see her old crush, Jason. He's her brother's best friend and he's always been off limits. Well, things have changed and Colby isn't the same girl she used to be.

Oh my, did I love Jason! He's charming, sweet, sexy, a great dad, and a really good guy. After losing his wife, he hasn't been in much of a hurry to find someone else. He really loved his wife, so it's been hard to move on. But, when Colby shows up, he's surprised to see that she's all grown up. I loved seeing them figure out their relationship. They both start out thinking it's just a fling, but they realize it's something worth trying for long term. I loved how he made her not only fall in love with him, but fall in love with their town again.

I loved Colby and Jason together. I liked getting to see glimpses of what they were like when they were younger. It helped to understand the depth of her feelings for him. And even though he was in love with his wife, Jason did notice Colby when they were younger. Speaking of his wife, I appreciated the fact that Jason wasn't looking to replace his wife. He honored her memory and their past. I was happy that it wasn't glossed over. I also loved the relationship that Colby developed with his daughter, Emma. It was so sweet.

Overall, I loved it! All of the characters were likable. I loved her sister, Sherry. I'm hoping she gets a book, but I'm also anxious for Colby's brother, Cane's book. I think I'm going to really like him! This is my first Rachel Harris book and it certainly won't be my last. I'm a fan for sure! If you're looking for a fast read that has a bit of sugar and spice, check this one out!

Quotes:
~"Personally, I think of Jason as nothing more than an honorary annoying brother. But if that man ever looked at me with that level of intensity, I would take him in the back and invent a new use for the spatula."-Loc 496

~He tasted of cinnamon and temptation, and smelled like heaven.-Loc 1677

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t enjoy the ‘falling for my brother’s best friend’ trope, if it’s well written you know you are onto a winner and Rachel Harris has delivered this perfectly in my opinion.

Colby Robicheaux left town 8 years ago after discovering a devastating family secret and has since, trained and become a respected Chef in her own right. Returning from Las Vegas to help out in the Family restaurant after her father’s death is only ever mean t to be a temporary arrangement.

Unfortunately fate has other ideas, and here we get to meet (and a certain reader developed a bit of a crush too) town Fire Chief, Gym owner and all round good-guy, Jason Landry. He is also Colby’s brother’s best friend, widowed with a cute 12 year old daughter that he takes full time care of. The attraction is mutual, the obstacles many.

They agree to a summer fling, no-strings and no feelings to be involved. Unfortunately Colby has always loved Jason, and Jason works out pretty quickly that he has fallen in love with Colby.



Originally reviewed in the Hometown Love Boxset - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

[Danielle (Love at First Page) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review includes the first two books in Rachel Harris' Love and Games series.

One of the best experiences of reading is finding new authors who you can count on to deliver again and again and whose work you immediately connect with. After just two books, I can safely put Rachel Harris in that category. Taste the Heat and Seven Day Fiancé are everything you want in a contemporary romance: smart, loveable heroines, off-the-charts chemistry, believable romance that makes your guts clench, engaging plot lines, and of course swoon-worthy heroes who melt your heart. I was swept away by these two stories, unable to do anything but feverishly read on until I got my happy ending. Harris perfectly balances sugar and spice, tension and release, and the reward couldn't have been sweeter.

In Taste the Heat, we meet Colby Robicheaux, a successful chef who returns home after the death of her father to help run the family restaurant. She isn't happy being back in her small hometown of Magnolia Springs, where there are few secrets kept hidden, and she plans to leave once the summer is over. Colby has a secret of her own, one that has shaped her from a starry-eyed girl of eighteen to the jaded, guarded woman she is today. She doesn't believe in love and faithfulness due to seeing infidelity repeat itself over and over again in her life. Things change, however, when she runs into her childhood crush. Jason Landry is the town's fire captain who is still putting the pieces of his life together after losing his high school sweetheart and wife four years ago. He's a single dad raising a pre-teen daughter, trying to do his best by her. He wants companionship and a female presence in his daughter's life, but isn't looking for love or to have his heart broken again.

To be honest, I've grown wary of no-strings-attached romances. Partly because it's formulaic and overdone, and partly because I could never see myself entering that kind of relationship. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I know emotions would always get the better of me. Thankfully, Rachel Harris keeps the drama usually accompanied with these stories to a minimum. Although Jason and Colby start what's supposed to be only a summer fling, the love and bond these two share can't be denied for long. Colby has loved Jason for most of her life, so it was only a matter of time until she realizes she was in too deep from the beginning, and Jason's walls completely crumble as he sees how perfectly Colby fits his family.

The heart of the story ends up being less about Jason and Colby falling in love than Jason slowly winning Colby's trust. She doesn't think she can ever be in a committed relationship and is truly fearful of being cheated on (again). But here's the thing: Jason is one of the good good ones. He is dependable, and loving, and kind, and so worthy of anyone's trust. The steps he takes to get past Colby's walls are ADORABLE. You'll have to see for yourself. :) (I did worry that Jason's love for his first wife would play too strong of a part in this story (I'm a sucker for the hero and heroine being each other's first love). That's a personal thing, though. His healthy marriage does show Colby how honorable of a guy he truly is.)

Magnolia Springs boasts a colorful cast of characters, from Jason's loquacious daughter who likes playing matchmaker, to Colby's siblings Cane and Sherry, to Awkward Angie, the new girl in town. One of the best and most original aspects of this series is the setting within the Cajun culture of New Orleans. I loved reading about their unique customs and habits and dialogues. It's a nice spin to the small town romance trope.

It's obvious from Taste the Heat that Cane and Angelle would be our hero and heroine for Seven Day Fiancé. Their story is still fresh on my mind and is even better than the first. Let me say that this book instantly became one of my all time favorite romances. THAT ENDING. *Swoon.* But I'm getting ahead of myself.

Cane is the town's requisite bad boy... or is he? He has the sexy tattoos, the sinfully perfect body, the motorcycle, and the dimples. But he's also a closet math nerd, likes to spout random factoids, and watches the Discovery Channel religiously. Oh, and he plays the guitar and sings in a band. Sold! Being inside his head is the icing on the cake. He's funny and confident without being cocky, protective of his sisters, a caring friend to Jason and his daughter, and he likes to say "darlin'" (that's important, okay?). The problem? He's also a bit of a playboy. Cane, like Colby, doesn't believe in fidelity, but he guards his heart by engaging in meaningless, short-lived relationships. Only, ever since Angelle arrived in town, Cane's boat is now being rocked.

I always worry whenever I fall head over heels in love with the hero that the heroine won't deserve him. I am happy to say that is so not the case here. I simply adored Angelle. She is awkward and shy and clumsy, especially around Cane. He makes her nervous. He makes her heart stutter. But she's determined to not be that girl anymore. After rejecting her longtime boyfriend's proposal, a boyfriend she never really felt passionate about, she leaves her hometown in an effort to rebuild herself. She no longer wants to be seen as someone who needs to be taken care of and sheltered. Rachel Harris does a beautiful job with her character arc. Angelle remains the girl who blushes and sometimes adorably stammers, but she also becomes a strong woman in her own right.

We've all seen the "fake boyfriend/fiancé/husband" story line before, but Rachel Harris somehow manages to make this story wholly fresh and inviting. Angelle wants to prove to her family that she can make her own choices and find her own path in life, and so tells the little white lie of Cane being her fiancé. When she propositions Cane to go home with her for the Thanksgiving weekend, he agrees, partly because he feels the need to help her but also because he's ready to act on the chemistry that has been sizzling between them. That's not an exaggeration in the least. The tension they share is like a third character, forever present. Watching them succumb to their attraction was entirely too much fun. Beyond the sexual chemistry, though, Cane and Angelle bonded through friendship as well. They open up to one another, more than they have with anyone else, and slowly fall in love. It takes Cane a while longer to admit his feelings, for fear that he'll eventually hurt Angelle, but when he does he really, really brings the swoon. He'll do whatever it takes to show her that he loves her "for real". Again, THAT ENDING. One of my favorite proposal scenes ever. I could read this couple's story again and again, it's that good. I believe in their connection, in their romance, and most importantly in their happy ending. Individually, they are so loveable, and together they make one of the cutest couples ever.

The next book in the Love and Games series should hopefully be wild Sherry's, and I'm begging Rachel Harris right now that it won't be the last.

This review can also be found at Love at First Page.

[Kassiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

4-1/2 stars. But I'm rounding up.

I have to admit that I was really excited about this book as soon as I found out about. Set right outside of New Orleans, which is very close to where I live, with a Cajun chef and a hot firefighter dad ? Sign me up!

No, really, I whined about it until they made a stop on the tour especially for us.

And I'm so glad they did. OMG ya'll. I really, really loved this book.

Colby Robicheaux, a renowned Cajun chef who's now the head chef at a prestigious restaurant in Las Vegas, is home for the summer to help out with the family restaurant that's in trouble following the death of her father. After being cheated on by her college boyfriend and witnessing infidelities from people she was closest to, she's sworn off love and has a lot of trust issues. She's judging a cooking contest in her small town when she sets eyes on childhood crush Jason Landry.

Jason is Colby's brother's best friend and was the star of her every childhood fantasy. He's now the chief of the Fire department, owns a gym, and is a dad to an adorable 12 year old. He's also a widower. His wife and high-school sweetheart was killed four years and since then, he hasn't even thought of being with anyone else. Now he can't help but miss being with someone. Not to mention he wants a good role model in his daughter, Emma's, life. Colby breezes back into town at just the right moment.

"Wow, an award-winning chef, a fire captain, and now a member of the Magnolia Springs welcome committee? Why, Mister Landry, you've grown up to be quite multi-talented."

He laughed under his breath. "That I am," he confirmed, his eyes lowering to her lips. "And that's only scratching the surface."

Because of their pasts, they know a real relationship is out of the question, but what happens when they realize they both want more? What happens when Jason realizes that he can love again? Will Colby let down her guard and go after the guy she's loved all her life?

For the better part of the last thirty years, she had lusted after the man in front of her. She'd seen him at the breakfast table with adorable bedhead. She'd seen him dressed up and smelling good, heading to a party. Colby had seen Jason at all ages and stages of his life--heck, she even saw him in his hero getup a few days ago. But without question, he had never looked more attractive than he did in that moment.

There's so much that I love about this story. I love the characters, especially Jason. My rob, he's so hot. And even though his analytical way of looking at things when he's thinking about having a marriage of convenience for his daughter's sake is barbaric, his thought process makes sense. And did I mention he's hot?

"Just so we're clear, being on top of me? It would definitely be better than fine."

For the record, I'm claiming this guy now. Also, there's a scene in this book that I actually put this note on: Email Rachel and beg her to send me the next scene. I love Entangled Bliss, but I really, really wish this had been Brazen so we didn't get the fade to black. I want more!!!

Rachel Harris without a doubt brought the magic of New Orleans to this book. The setting of this book was so amazing. The food descriptions, the ambiance of the city, just everything--so good.

I also really loved Colby's siblings. Her brother, Cane, was the perfect souther big brother, and her sister, Sherry, was funny and awesome.

"A chance to have a fling with a hot firefighter--what woman wouldn't want that? It's your duty, on behalf of single women everywhere, to pursue this opportunity."

So what didn't I love? I thought Colby's breakdown was a little overly-dramatic. Also, since Colby's brother has been best friends with Jason since pre-school, I didn't understand how finding out about Emma (and his marriage) was such a shock to Colby. It was explained a little, but really? I feel like Cane would have at least mentioned his godchild at some point over the last twelve years, especially since they're so close. The end was a teeny bit cheesy (grin) and seemed too soon to me, but I'm glad we got it anyway.

I really loved this book. I think you'll love it, too.

Check out our interview with Rachel over at Pretty Sassy Cool.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do if you had the chance at a no strings attached fling with your childhood crush?

In Taste the Heat we meet Colby and Jason. Colby is your classic heartbroken female who has had it with men, specifically cheating men. She realizes her heart won't be able handle another disappointment, so she decides just not to fall in love again…ever. Easy, right? Colby is a lot of fun as a female lead. She is independent with a successful career that she loves, she has great family support, and she is not afraid to go after what she wants - and that would be, of course, Jason. Jason is everything every girl dreams of. You totally cannot blame Colby for her childhood-turned-adulthood crush. I have a huge crush on him myself! Jason is the perfect guy…sweet, smart, fun, independent, caring, sexy as hell, and brave (a fireman whoot whoot!). But all that aside, here's what really made me (and Colby) fall for him…rather than the typical bad boy love-um-and-leave-um type of sexiness, Jason oozes his own brand of sexy called fatherhood. Raising his daughter on his own brings out a whole other side to him that you just cannot ignore.

Rachel Harris has quickly made it to the top of my favorite authors list. Her easy writing style and quirky, fun characters makes for a super fun (and super sexy!) story. I read the second book in this series before this first one, so I knew how this was going to end, but believe me when I say that didn't make the story any less fun. I'm looking forward to book three in this scorching series.

[Kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

**4 Stars**
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

So, as some of you can probably tell from past reviews, I am not a romance genre person. HOWEVER, I loved Rachel Harris’ teen book (My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century), so I wanted to give Taste the Heat a shot. I was pleasantly surprised!

I am not a big fan of all the sex in most adult romances, which is why I shy away from them. Taste the Heat, while it had a lot of sexual tension, didn’t have much actual sex. And what there was, wasn’t described in detail. (Huge plus for me!)

I really liked the story line and how HE had the child and how they both had closed off their hearts. I also like how we see through both Colby and Jason’s eyes. I actually almost wish for a novella of Sherry.

Really good read, even if you aren’t a romance fan. I look forward to reading the next one.

[Sue "DavinciKittie" Brown-Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taste the Heat is a charming, heartfelt story about old love, unexpected betrayal, and finding yourself through the ashes of a painful past. Colby and Jason's story is both sweet and alluring, leaving you feeling satisfied and full of hope. He is a great hero - gentle, confident, and courageous - and she is beautifully flawed with a welcoming personality. And Emma, Jason's daughter, is an adorable little tornado of a preteen who very nearly stole the show!

Taste the Heat is a quick and engaging read with emotional depth and a lovely Happy-Ever-After. All the characters are very likable and the New Adult genre keeps the heat rating on this story low, meaning there's nothing explicit or overtly sexually to distract from the flow of the romance. This book is a recommended read! If you're a fan of this genre of books, sweet romance without the bite, you may also like Kissing the Maid of Honor by Robin Bielman.

[Nancy The book junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.75/5

Review coming soon!

[Jaime Arkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been known to have good timing … occasionally. It just so happened that I popped onto twitter one evening and saw a tweet about Retweeting something to win. Out of habit I tend to RT a lot of things.

When I got a responding tweet later saying that I had won a copy of Taste the Heat from Rachel Harris herself, I was all



I mean who doesn’t like winning things!

Anyway I read the summary…

Single Sexy Fireman Dad…

Cajun Chef…



Colby Robicheaux is in New Orleans for only one thing… to help save her family restaurant and once things settle back down she’s leaving. There are too many memories, most of them unpleasant that have her convinced that she can’t stay. It doesn’t help that she’s had a crush on someone she just can’t have.

For the better part of the last thirty years, she had lusted after the man in front of her. She'd seen him at the breakfast table with adorable bedhead. She'd seen him dressed up and smelling good, heading to a party. Colby had seen Jason at all ages and stages of his life--heck, she even saw him in his hero getup a few days ago.

Jason Landry lost the love of his life tragically and is raising his daughter alone. He’s not looking for love, and certainly not with his best friend’s sister, but there is no denying the chemistry between them.

They agree to a fling… one that ends when she leaves town – no hard feelings after. Of course that’s not exactly what happens. Colby has seen infidelity everywhere and experienced it firsthand. She has no urge to have her heart broken again, and Jason isn’t looking for something amazing. He’s simply looking for someone steady and stable who can be a role model for his young daughter. I may have cringed about this at first, but … let’s just say Jason didn’t even have a chance.

I have to say that I fell in love with these characters. Both Colby and Jason were wonderfully written and the drama wasn’t too overdone. Jason had me swooning!

"I'm not above asking for help if it means making this night perfect for you."

I even loved Colby’s brother and sister – Sherry was hilarious and spot on. Exactly what every sister should be!

"A chance to have a fling with a hot firefighter--what woman wouldn't want that? It's your duty, on behalf of single women everywhere, to pursue this opportunity."

Since this is a Bliss title it’s much tamer than some of my other reads, and while I would love to have more, *ahem* I was perfectly happy with the fade to black. I know you’ll almost never hear me say that … and probably won’t ever again. But I will say this… Harris can write some sexual tension like nobody’s business, and the teasing comments were wonderfully done.

"Just so we're clear, being on top of me? It would definitely be better than fine."



TELL ME MORE JASON

The only thing that didn’t make sense to me were a few minor details that I noted. Colby didn’t know about Emma or what happened with Jason’s wife, which I found odd, I mean even if you’re not talking to your family as often it wasn’t like she didn’t cut them off completely. I just feel like it probably would have come up at some point.

If you’re looking for a quick, sweet read, filled with food, UST, a sexy firefighter father who dotes on his daughter, and a heroine who is trying to figure out just who she can trust not to break her heart, this is the read for you. I promise you’ll end up with the biggest crush on Jason and I for one am hoping that we’ll get to see future stories from Cane and Sherry.

Thanks to Rachel for letting me win a copy! Can’t wait to read more!

This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an arc for my honest and timely review.

Aw, I loved this story. It swept me off of my feet. I mean, Rachel Harris knows romance. Real romance. Heart pounding-knee wobbling-can't get enough of you-stay with me forever-you complete me romance. Her books are my escape from the harsh realities of life. She allows me to dream, to wish, to hope. To never give up on the possibilities. While she deals with some serious issues in Taste the Heat, she weaves a spell upon Colby (how cute is her name?!) and Jason, that you cannot help but be moved by. The attraction was tangible. The heat profound. These two had a spark that ignited a series of wild fires.

Without ever being crass or crude, Rachel brings the magic of finding, and falling in love, again. Her intimate scenes are smoldering, but tasteful, and leave you wanting more. But this isn't what drives the story. What really makes Taste the Heat such an enchanting and enthralling tale, is the magic between Colby, Jason, and his daughter Emma. I absolutely LOVED these characters. They were so alive and real. What they felt, I felt. When each struggled in their own way to find the happiness they deserved, to heal from the past, to truly move on, I fought back the tears (unsuccessfully), and prayed they all found their HEA.

Why did I love them so much? Mostly because they were kind, goodhearted, and giving. They didn't have any perverse agendas or dirty little secrets. That's not to say that Colby didn't have secrets, but she'd never done anything wrong. She'd never hurt anyone. She was hurt, broken, as she would say. But while she's still running away from her past, she can't help but be drawn to Jason. The boy she grew up loving had grown into a man she couldn't turn away from. She needed him like air. She was terrified and thrilled by that.

And Jason? Besides being incredibly hot, was he indeed a GOOD guy. Hardworking, an amazing father and friend. A rare find in a genre filled with motorcycle riding, rock stars, and rebels. He is a true Southern gentleman. It is his goodness, his honesty, and warmth, that is his charm. This guy doesn't have a mean bone in his body, but he is a protector and a provider so earnest it's a total turn on. His character was so refreshing. So swoonworthy. So freaking HAWT. The sex appeal just oozed out of him without him even trying. He proves you don't have to be an alpha to be a man.

Emma was delightful and a charmer in her own right. Craving a family- at twelve years old she needs a woman again in her life, a mother figure and role model to guide her, and comfort her when Jason isn't able to  understand what she's going through. In her mind, Colby fits the bill. And they immediately form an unbreakable bond. Wanting her dad to find his own happiness, she does what she can to bring Colby and Jason together. She's a wise one. And so freaking adorable.

The setting of Taste the Heat only enhances the steaminess of this sweet romance. Rachel paints such a lovely picture of Magnolia Springs and New Orleans. The historic sites, the music, the FOOD, fill your senses and transport you into a world most only dream of. I try to never spoil, but I have to mention a certain evening spent in New Orleans would make the hardest of hearts melt. It's incredibly touching and sensual.
There's so much more this story offers, but I want you to discover all that Rachel cooks up for yourself. It has it's up and downs, as any story does. Our characters struggle with doubt and confusion, and wanting to do the right thing. For a too short time, I was fully immersed in their world and consumed by it. I guarantee you won't want to put it down. Most of you will read it in one sitting. It's that potent. That captivating. Just that damned good.

A favorite quote from the book. So simple, but so moving: "Love never gives up."

Go out and grab Taste the Heat for yourself, and fall in love, with love, all over again.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5+ sizzling cajun stars!

It’s probably too quick to say that I’m head over heels in love with Rachel Harris’s writing based off one book but, it’s true! Taste the Heat made me laugh, cry, swoon, basically all the things you do while reading a really good book. It also happened to be the very definition of catnip trope heaven: chef heroine, firefighter hero, best friend’s little sister, widowed single father, childhood crush, the whole ‘let’s just keep things casual’ when that never works because FEELINGS *happy sigh*

The chemistry between Colby and Jason was electric and instantaneous, which usually would not work for me but given their history of having grown up together, combined with the fact that they were both very likable characters, made their quickie romance easy to root for. Not that they made it all that easy. Both had a lot of complicated commitment issues to sort through first. Jason loved his late wife very dearly and struggled with letting someone else into his heart. Not to mention the fact that he had his young daughter Emma to think about as well. Colby meanwhile had a huge problem with trust that stemmed from multiple past betrayals.

All that stuff sounds really heavy I know, but in reality this was a very heartwarming, sweet read. Jason pulled out all the stops in breaking down Colby’s walls. Ones that involved dancing in the street, blindfolded food tasting and chocolate body painting (of which I wanted a hell of a lot more detail than I was given, grrr). Yeah, Jason was all kinds of life ruining amazing and it didn’t take much for Colby (or me) to fall hard and fast. It was interesting having a couple who actually bonded over their broken hearts, in effect finding both an empathetic ear and a kindred spirit. And, blessed be, they actually TALKED to each other, even when it was hard to do so. It’s sad how rare that is in romance novels, and real life.

Something else I loved was that as Colby was falling for Jason (AND WHO WOULDN’T?!) she also fell for Emma, and vice versa. This was so important to me because a lot of the time when children are involved, the focus is on the romance between the adults and the kid(s) are kind of left in limbo, or are sidelined completely. Not the case here. Emma was very much present throughout the book, as she should be. And actually some of the best moments, like Colby making foodie Emma her junior sous chef and helping Jason and Emma through Emma’s first period, wouldn’t have been possible if Emma hadn’t been made such a central character from the get go.

The small town of Magnolia Springs and the city of New Orleans were almost honorary characters themselves in the amount of detail and feeling Rachel Harris infused in her descriptions of them. I often felt like I was actually there and that rarely happens for me. Colby’s siblings, biker math nerd Cane and purple-haired free spirit Sherry, were standouts as well, I can’t wait to read their books. OH AND ALL THE FOOD PORN WAS TO DIE FOR (Warning: DO NOT read this book while hungry). The menu epilogue was an extra nice touch.

I would have given this a full 5-stars if not for the fact that it took Jason getting hurt before Colby finally told him she loved him. UGH. Seriously romance heroes AND heroines, your significant other should not have to be put in mortal peril before you get your shit together and tell them how you feel! Despite this one lone blimp, I LOVED THIS BOOK.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Rachel Harris' YA novel My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century, and was really excited to read her debut adult contemporary novel, Taste the Heat. I must say that she exceeded all my expectations. I just loved it. Colby Robicheaux has been gone from New Orleans for almost 12 years. She has established herself as a well known and well respected chef in Las Vegas, but after her father's death, she has returned home to help her brother and sister run the family restaurant for the summer, counting the days until she can leave New Orleans and everything it represents to her behind. Jason Landry is the Captain of the Fire Department, and for those who love a man in uniform, he is hotness personified - with and without it. He is also Colby's childhood crush and her brother's best friend. When the two meet again at a community function and he doesn't recognize Colby at first, it proves to be very entertaining for her to watch his reaction and be the object of his flirtation. When Jason finally does realize who she is, he wants to kick himself - I mean she is practically like his little sister, only she isn't so little anymore, and she sure doesn't feel like a sister. Jason knows he should remarry for his daughter Emma's sake, but he doesn't want to put his heart out there to be broken again. It's just too painful. The last thing Colby wants is a relationship, but when she looks at Jason, she finds all those old feelings rising to the surface. Despite their best attempts, they cannot stay away from each other. Besides, Emma loves Colby, and Colby feels the same way about Emma. Colby makes it clear she is leaving at the end of the summer, but they can hang out and have fun while she is there casually....or can they? What Jason doesn't know, and Colby soon confides in him, is the real reason she left New Orleans and why she rarely comes back. Jason also shares his pain with Colby. He then becomes a man on a mission to help Colby heal from the wounds from her past, but Colby may just feel she is too broken to fix.

Taste the Heat is such a great story. I loved both Colby and Jason, especially Jason. They just don't come any better than him, and Rachel Harris has outdone herself in creating his character. I loved Jason's daughter Emma to. She is such a sweetheart. The secondary characters were excellently written and woven into the story, especially Colby's brother Cane and her sister Sherry, and I really hope her next book is about Cane. He has the whole hot bad boy persona going on, and I would love to read more about him. I have said it before and I will say it again, I haven't read a book yet from Entangled Publishing that I didn't like and their Bliss imprint is one of my favorites. Taste the Heat is a an exciting romance that is sweet, but has that sizzle that makes it exciting, and is also fun, entertaining, and emotional at times. I loved the New Orleans setting, and the way Rachel Harris was able to immerse you into the city and its culture, especially its world famous food. If you are a contemporary romance fan then Taste the Heat is a great read and something you definitely will want to check out.

[Chelsea (Starbucks & Books Obsession) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taste the Heat was such a cute and fun read. It is so nice to read a light romantic book once and a while and take a break from the intensity of new adult novels. The writing style is so reminiscent of Lauren Blakely, whom I adore, so I am an instant fan of Rachel Harris.

Colby is a renowned chef in Las Vegas, where she owns her own Italian restaurant. She is back in her home town in Louisiana after leaving 12 years ago. She immediately reconnects with her childhood crush, Jason, who happens to be her brother’s best friend. All of her feelings come rushing back but she doesn’t know if she can ever trust another man again. Jason is instantly attracted to Colby before realizing who she is. Once he knows, he can’t stop thinking about her and she may be the woman to bring down all his barriers.

“Coming home was always a tug and pull—warm memories with apprehension.”

I really liked Colby. She was smart, funny and one hell of a chef! She has been through some traumatic events when she was younger when it comes to men. It has made her guarded and un-trusting of them. When Jason comes back into her life, she really struggles internally with her feelings for him and her distrust in men.

Jason was an amazing and loyal man. He was a good father and everything he does is for his daughter. He immediately feels things for Colby that he hasn’t felt since his wife died and it is very confusing for him. He can tell that there is something holding Colby back and he wants to open her up and get her to trust him.

“When was the last time he’d had such a visceral reaction to the simple sight of a woman?”

Emma was the star of this book and I loved her. She loved her dad so much and she was such a fan of Colby. It was so cute how she tried to play matchmaker and encouraged Jason to go after Colby. She made me laugh and smile throughout the entire book.

Colby and Jason are two people who have both been through a tragic event that has caused them to put up barriers and not allow people in. Their re-connection couldn't have been more perfect because they both needed someone to bring them to life again. Both of them started out with a physical attraction and thinking that they wanted just a fling with no emotions attached. I knew that wouldn’t work because Colby has always been in love with Jason and he is such a passionate man. I loved the way they shared their most painful memories with each other and the way they really connected. The sexual tension between them was smoking hot but the emotional connection that Colby made with Jason and Emma was heartwarming and endearing.

“He bought himself an entire summer with Colby, and maybe, just maybe, it would convince her to stay.”

Overall, I loved this book and thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It was a light; fun read and had all the elements to make me smile. The characters were likable and easy to connect with. The plot was fun and flowed well. The writing was excellent and the style was fun and easy to read. This is my first Rachel Harris book and I will definitely be reading more.

[Kayleigh {K-Books} · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taste the Heat Review on K-Books

When I first heard that Rachel Harris was bringing out a Adult Contemporary novel I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. Since reading Rachel's debut novel My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century, I fell head over heels in love with Rachel's books and I couldn't wait to get started on her adult one. Taste the Heat is such a fantastic adult novel. I was not disappointed in it at all. It met all of my expectations and more.

Colby escaped her home town years ago and she's been free living her dream ever since. When she returns home to help on with the family restaurant she is counting down the days until she can leave. But then Jason runs into her life. The boy she has had a crush on forever... and he's finally noticing her. Jason had never noticed his best friends little sister in that way before but he can't help but notice how beautiful she had become. And she's the only woman to get his heart pumping in a long time.
Jason and Colby can't deny the attraction between them... but they have both been burned. Can they get their attraction out of their system and walk away... or are they destined to heal the other?

I loved this book. I mean literally adored it. Right from the very first page Rachel's amazing writing stye captured me and wouldn't let me go until the end. I read the whole book in one sitting and literally could not put it down. Right from the start I was completely emotionally invested in the story and the characters and couldn't wait to see how the story would turn out and what was going to happen to these characters.

Colby is such a great character. I instantly associated with her right from the start of the book. She is totally kick-ass and I love her 'no-crap' attitude. She is such an awesome character to read about and you instantly sympathise with her as you learn more about her past. She's the kind of character that when she hurts you hurts and you love her as a best friend so just want to jump in the book and give her a huge hug!

Jason... oh be still my heart I am completely in love. Right from the start of the book I loved Jason. He is one of those fictional boys that you desperately wish was real and that you could bump into him at some point because he is so amazing. Sexy, swoon-worthy and sometimes damn right panty dropping amazing! I adore him!

Taste the Heat was such a phenomenal adult debut for Rachel Harris and I seriously cannot wait to see what she will come up with next for these adult contemporaries. I am on such a huge contemp kick right now and this was the perfect book for me. I loved every single second of it. If you are looking for an upbeat contemporary book that has the perfect mix of cute romance and super sexiness then look no further. Taste the Heat is phenomenal and introduces the character for the next Love and Games book and I will be counting down the days until I get my hands on it.

[herdys · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a nice book!

It felt a little short, but the 200 pages were all used very well. While I'm not a fan of instalust, here it was kinda funny how they were flirting food and recipes. I did get a little tiref of hearing how
how they both thought the other was. We get it, YOU'RE BOTH HOT, yay..

Apart from that, the story was compelling and the author made you fall in love along the characters. Their problems felt real, and so did their sorrows. Usually I roll my eyes at most of the issues on contemporary romances, but here I felt for both of them. I love love love that Jason had a daughter. Emma so spunky and it was cute how easily she fell in love with Coby too. I really liked all characters, which is rare, cause they authors always rely on the "good versus bad" when it comes to the people who interfere with the otp.

If you want a short but heartfelt and funny read with lots of food porn, this is the one for you. I'll definitely check the other sibling's books!

[Shannon Duffy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so awesome! Rachel Harris bring the setting to life so much that you practically feel like you're there...and taste the delectable New Orleans treats! Get ready to fall in love with the swoony Jason, too. Just sayin'. Another stellar read by this author. Can't wait for the next one in the series!

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I REALLY loved this book. So sweet and romantic with just enough sizzling chemistry without being overly explicit.

I enjoy most of Entangled's Bliss line but this title made me sa-woon!

I highly recommend this book as well, as Cindi Madsen's Accidentally in Love series, also from Entangled Bliss. Both have have a nice blend of sexy, sweet & humor with characters you'll just love.

[Stacee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and [mostly] fluffy, just the way I like them.

[Asheley T. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taste The Heat by Rachel Harris is one of the best examples of using setting and food in a story to create mood and tension that most of us just love to pieces in our romances. We all know that both of these things can work so well to set up atmosphere and attraction between characters when they're written well. Well played, Ms. Harris! I loved it.

This excerpt is taken from my Three-Things Review on Into the Hall of Books. Read more here: http://www.intothehallofbooks.com/201...

The first thing you need to know is this:
Colby left the New Orleans area years ago - for reasons - but now she's back. For reasons.

We first meet Colby as she's judging a cooking competition - we find out that she's temporarily back in her family's Cajun restaurant working as their chef. See, she's made a big name for herself out in Las Vegas and it's kind of a big deal that she's back in town - being semi-famous and all - and the family restaurant needs her name to up their business. So she's doing this guest-judging gig...and being a judge is how she comes in contact with a long-lost former crush (a huge crush, actually) from years and years ago. Oh hello there, firefighter Jason! How ya doin?

Okay, so we've already made some big leaps in this book and we're not even out of chapter one. Colby can barely believe her eyes when she sees Jason - dude definitely has kept his looks over the years - but OHMYGOSH he has also gained a daughter! WHAT?!? While her body and her heart are SCREAMING at her to find out more about her dream guy from long ago (where's the kid's mother anyway), her mind is BEGGING her not to get involved. After all, she knows that she isn't staying in town permanently - she's leaving after the summer to go back to Las Vegas. Plus Colby has no idea what's up in the daddy/daughter/When-did-Jason-get-a-family? department.

Still, the heart wants what the heart wants, right? And Colby's heart wants more information. Plus, Jason's daughter Emma is a bit starstruck by Colby (being a huge Food Network fan); Emma keeps coming around because she thinks Colby is super-cool. Where Emma comes, it seems Jason follows. Re-acquaintance is hardly an option in this small area, it seems. Sigh sigh sigh, thinks Colby.

The second thing you need to know is this:
Jason remembers Colby from long ago. And he notices that she's definitely grown into herself.

Outside of Colby's back-and-forth/confusing feelings for Jason, he certainly has feelings for his own. See, what Colby doesn't know is that Emma's mother is no longer in the picture, so Emma is the main lady is in his life. Everything he does is for that little girl, and even though he is wildly attracted to Colby - it won't work at all unless Emma is safe and secure and won't be hurt by his actions. So everything Jason does and thinks and feels, he tries to think of Emma first because he's a really great father. But DANG he is so attracted to this woman.

Things become really interesting when, on Emma's birthday, she asks her dad Jason to take her camping - her first camping trip! Because she has taken such a liking to Colby, she quickly asks Colby to come along. Now, here are the issues with this:

1.It's Emma's party and Jason wants her to be happy. If she wants Colby to go, maybe he should invite Colby. Right?
2.Jason is WILDY attracted to Colby. So if he goes along with this invite, is it solely to make Emma happy or is it because he secretly wants to spend a teensy bit more time with Colby too? -- HMMM.
3.Colby doesn't want to intrude on the camping trip BUT it does seem like Emma genuinely wants her there, and Jason doesn't seem to mind. PLUS HELLO!! it's more time around Jason.

Okay! It's settled. The three of them are going camping and that's that. But it's TOTALLY for Emma's birthday and NOTHING ELSE. Nope, nothing else.

Uh-oh...

The third thing you need to know is this:
As I said earlier, the heart wants what the heart wants you guys.

Oh how fun it is to watch these two at war with themselves over their feelings for each other. Should I just go for it? Or maybe not? And the funny thing is that they BOTH are feeling the exact same way! They both are crushing SO HARD, just like they're teenagers when in reality they're just adults - my age! - that have come through tough times and tough situations and are finding their way back into each others' paths again. Ultimately, they both have the same goals in mind - the same end results - just one of them making sure that sweet Emma doesn't get caught in any cross-fire when Colby packs up and heads back to Las Vegas. But then, Colby starts thinking along the lines of New Orleans vs Las Vegas and it gets REALLY GOOD.

THIS IS GLORIOUS READING. It is so much fun.

Not to mention that the heart also seriously wants: fantastic food (which there is) and a great setting (which there is).

*******************************************

Taste The Heat by Rachel Harris is a FUN, FUN, FUN adult contemporary romance that I just enjoyed. It's as simple as that. I think it has some older-YA appeal to it and there is ABSOLUTELY appeal to those that live in the deep Southern US as well as those who are the foodie-type readers because there so much food in this book, it made me hungry every time I turned the page.

Colby is a lot of fun to read - she's come out of some trying circumstances but unlike many books (even romances) that we read these days, her bad times aren't overplayed. Colby is written in the present and tells the story of her past, if that makes any sense at all, and I just loved that. She doesn't MOPE AROUND, she thinks hard about what she wants to do and then BY GOD THE GAL GOES FOR IT. Sure, she thinks and overthinks sometimes, but don't we all? Especially when we're making a giant leap at something. Colby has a great sister and brother that have her back - strong sibling relationships, you guys! - and their interaction was fun to read about. Her ties to the region are strong but her need to flee the region and strike out on her own (before the book began, re-imagined through conversations) are totally understandable. She has a few moments that make me chuckle a little bit and best of all, I see a little bit of myself in this character, which is always fun.

And merciful heavens - firefighter Jason. I thought I loved cowboys (I DO) but this firefighter isn't too shabby, you guys. First of all, and most importantly, he loves his daughter with everything in him. He also respects his best friend, who happens to be Colby's brother, even though he is firm in his resolve that he wants to pursue her. I love this - their conversations and interactions - because I find them to be so believable and what I would imagine two dudes talking about a topic like this (Dude, how do you feel about me possibly dating your sister cause I'm totally into her?**). Jason also had a great relationship with his family, which is wonderful. So wonderful. I love it when books write in great relationships, and the bond that this guy had with his father - one conversation in particular about love - aahh, my heart just melted. But it was the way that Jason pursued Colby that just got to me and made me kind of fall for him too.

See, she was upfront with him - told him she was leaving at the end of the summer. She didn't want to do anything to hurt Emma and OF COURSE neither did Jason. So the plan they devised was really fun, and then how it all worked out was even funner. But it was Jason, in my opinion, that made it that way. Heartthrob city.

I would be a bad blogger if I didn't mention (again) the incredible setting written into this story. Set in New Orleans and overflowing with Cajun food and talk of how to make it, descriptions of the taste, the smell, the look of it - it was just wonderful. Also - and this is probably a little odd but just go with me here - I loved the play on the title, Taste The Heat. There are lots of references - bold and also subtle - of heat in this story, from Jason being a firefighter to the spiciness of the food, to everything in between. I loved it.

Taste The Heat is my first novel by author Rachel Harris and it will not be my last. In looking on Goodreads, I can see that this will be a series (here and here), and I will absolutely be following it. If I'm being honest, I wasn't sure how I would enjoy a book so immersed in the food-culture, but I really loved it and I'm hoping that you guys love it too.

I recommend Taste The Heat by Rachel Harris for fans of adult contemporary romance (but there is older-YA appeal, readers!), books with FANTASTIC settings, books that have lots of food-talk and food-culture in them, and books with lots of swoon but are not overly-steamy. I think that a lot of my reading friends will really enjoy this one and I will be spreading it word-of-mouth and hopefully some of you guys reading this will pick it up as well. Great book, so glad I read it!

**paraphrasing, you guys!

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. I loved the story line, the characters and pretty much everything about this book. Honestly, I think this is the hardest review I've ever had to write because I want to include EVERYTHING!!! There were so many amazing scenes and parts to this book that it's hard to just hand pick a few to give you examples of the awesomeness of this book.

The book starts off with Colby returning to her hometown of New Orleans to judge the St. Tammany Parish Firefighters' Cajun Cook-off. Colby left town years ago and become a well renown chef and owns her own top of the line restaurant in Las Vegas. Right off the bat you learn that Colby left town years ago because something bad happened in her past and part of it has to do with her father.

I know this is considered to be a young adult/romance type novel, but I wasn't sure how in-depth of romance this novel would get until we meet Captain Jason Landry. *sigh* Who by the way is single father reading about prepubescent hormones, shaving legs, and PMS. I find this comical because growing up my dad was grossed out at the mention of being on my period let alone any other "girly" type stuff. However, this does raise the question about where his daughter's mother is. Obviously he isn't currently married because he seems to be checking out the judge of the cook-off and thinking dirty thoughts about her. Not realizing who she is just yet.

I love Jason's description of Colby as he first takes her in. "The woman was five-alarm gorgeous. His fingers actually itched with the desire to wrap her hair around his palm. He bit his lip, wondering if her mouth tasted half as good as it looked. As Jason's eyes snapped back to the brunette, it was all the prompting his imagination needed to fire up a vision of the kind of panties the woman had on –silk black thong, if he had to guess –and all the creative ways he'd like to remove them. With his teeth". HAWT!!!! What I would give for some hot sexy fireman to think that about me at a first glance.

Colby recognizes Jason right away, especially since she has spent her entire life crushing on her older brother's best friend. Jason and Colby spend a few public moments openly flirting with each other and it isn't until Colby's older brother Cane sits next to her that some puzzle pieces start to fall into place. And of course everyone knows that the little sister of your best friend is a no no. But of course everyone knows that you're still going to chase after her because you can't help it. And thankfully Captain Jason here continues with the chase. Colby and Jason meet a lot by accident and that spark is there every time they are near each other. They are always drawn to each other in a way that every thing in the world disappears and all that is left is the two of them. Colby also shares things with Jason that she's never told anyone before, especially what happened with her father all those years ago and why she left and never looked back.

The conflict that arises in this story is that something awful happened in Colby's past with her father and she can't stay in her hometown. She is only there for 3 short months to help the family restaurant and then it's back to Las Vegas and her "normal" life. Jason is just as screwed up. We learn that a few years back his wife died and he is looking for a mother for his daughter, who by the way is an adorable child that I would be the step-mother of. But the way he states it is really weird, because he would be with someone who would be a good mother, but not really have a wife. They would live together and be married, but he wouldn't love her and wouldn't really be "in" the marriage. So Colby gets to date and sleep with the man of her dreams and Jason gets to get down and dirty with his best friends little sister. They decide that a no strings attached relationship is the best thing to do. Well so they start this hawt and steamy fling and I love them together and what I find funny is one of Colby's biggest hesitancies is being a fill in mother of sorts, and yet she is awesome at it. Emma wants to be a chef someday and so her and Colby have a connection from the beginning and it just grows from there. Of course the game changes up because Jason realizes that he doesn't just want a fling with Colby, he wants more. So of course he is going to show her an AMAZING time and what she could have...and O.M.G. who isn't going to want what he is throwing out.

Colby's brother Cane and her sister Sherry play big roles in this book. Cane is the big brother I've always wished I had and Sherry....well she's Sherry. She's the baby of the family and you can bet she lives up to that name. She has some awesome moments and some pretty funny ones too, especially since she is ALL about Jason and Colby hooking up. And I love her character and when some stuff happens to her I want to go beat the crap out of people.

Now we know somehow drama has to come up and something has to happen for Colby to truly begin to question everything. And of course it does and her past comes colliding with her present. And a lot of questions arise because of this. And some tragedy happens and I was almost in tears at that part, because I was so into the book. So many questions that are answered in this book and trust me when I tell you, you won't be disappointed by this book at all. So go pick up your copy now!!!

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a cute read, but a little too short to be fully developed. I would have liked the letters from Colby’s to be included in the text, rather than have her paraphrase what they said. I also found Colby a bit melodramatic. Jason was sweet and I loved his daughter emma though. Overall it was cute.

**read for book scavenger hunt - a book with a baker, chef, caterer, etc as the main character**

[Amy Fournier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so this review is probably going to consist of a lot of fangirling and spazziness!! If I didn't already love Rachel Harris before, I definitely would now. She is a one-click author for me. This book was awesome with a side of hot sauce!! I loved the family aspect, the self discovery and forgiveness, and the romance of course. This was so much more than a sweet and spicy romance though. I loved getting to know the characters, discover things about their pasts, and see them move toward their future. I didn't feel like I was reading a book, it was more like being in it and experiencing it along with all of them. I can say that this was a book that I truly got lost in!

Colby was the type of female character I love. She is strong and driven, and knows what she wants out of life. She has determination, and has made a name for herself. She is in no way held back in life, except by her own emotions, and inability to let go of the past. No, not let go, accept and move on. That is the one thing that has a negative impact on her mind. Due to her past, she steers clear of men and relationships. A fling? Sure, why not. That is, unless it's with super hottie fireman, Jason, who also happens to be her long time childhood crush. She thinks they can keep it casual and then she will go back to the life she has created for herself over the past 12 years. She realizes that it's not that easy. It's not just Jason though. His daughter Emma has secured a place in her heart and Colby can't help but want to do what's best for everyone. She has her moments of weakness, and her insecurities get the best of her, but I loved her! She was the type of woman who even not in her situation, you can relate to her.

Jason was super swoon worthy!! Oh, my this man!! Not only is he a sexy fireman, he can cook, and he is a fantastic dad. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a man who's little girl has him wrapped around her finger. His daughter is everything to him. In fact, she is so important that even though the last thing he wanted was marriage again, he would do it to have a steady female presence in her life. He doesn't think he could ever love again, but he is willing to do what he needs for Emma's happiness. That is until Colby comes back into the picture. He sees how broken she is being home and wants to help heal her from the past. He starts to fall for her, and he knows that Emma is falling for her too. He sets forth on a plan to try to win her over and convince her to stay! The things he does for her are so thoughtful and romantic that I was a puddle of goo! Jason is the icing on the cake!! Oh, man! I'm loving trying to put in these food references. I'm not good at it lol!!

Romance, romance!! This romance is gradual and real. It also stems from a long time friendship, so even if it seems a bit quick, it makes sense. Colby and Jason grew up together and have known each other forever. Colby had a crush on Jason for years and years. They are comfortable around each other which makes it easy to build a meaningful relationship. They are both trying to avoid it for their own reasons, but they are so right for each other. Not just for each other, but for Emma and their families too. Jason's parents have been concerned for Emma and Jason too and it's a relief for them to see them both happy. There was so much more to this romance than just two people falling in love.

I loved everything about this book. It was a contemporary with depth. It wasn't just a fluff romance with the typical drama. So many times in books we get the guy chasing the single mom, so it was nice to have a change. I liked that they both had there lives pretty much in order, but the other was the missing ingredient they didn't realize they needed. Full of charm, wonderful characters, and a great focus on family, this was one delicious read!! I can't wait for the next book in the series which will be Cane's! I'm sure I will devour that one too!!


*An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I did not receive any compensation.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you, Rachel Harris and Entangled Publishing, for the early eARC of this book!
*Possible spoilers. You've been warned. :)

4 Sizzling, Romantic Stars.

Fun, romantic, and with an undeniable and sizzling attraction between the two main characters, this book heated up and never cooled down. Taste the Heat was a light summer read that will have you wanting to pour ice down your back just to cool off from the scorching heat of New Orleans and the hot relationship between Colby and Jason.

At first, I was just looking for a light, fluffy read that would take my mind off the very intense and emotional book I'd just read. What I got was so much more than just a light-hearted romance. It was wonderful to watch Jason and Colby's relationship grow from mutual attraction to shining love. And it was wonderful to see them both find love when neither of them had been looking for it.

As I said, I wanted a light read (which was nothing against the author!). But I was pleasantly surprised with the emotional depth of the story. It made me cry! Mostly because it hit close to home, and I found myself totally relating to Colby's character; her heartache, her guilt, her pain. Being able to connect with her was a great bonus. :)

These two characters, Colby and Jason, are both scarred from past relationships and aren't looking for anything more than just a casual fling. But it only takes them a few weeks to realize that this could be something so much more, something that could prove to them both that love is worth all the doubts and heartache, all the tears and hurt. That love is worth a second chance.

When Colby comes home for the summer to save her family's restaurant after the unexpected death of her father, she's counting down the days till she goes back to Vegas. But what she didn't count on was her childhood crush tempting her to stay. Tempting her to give her home and her roots a second chance. And as much as the healing helps the scars fade, she still can't let go of the heartache that sent her packing twelve years ago. She still can't let herself believe in "happily ever after" because, even if her and Jason can prove that all she's thought about love is wrong, it still doesn't squash the fears that still cling to her broken heart.

As a single father, Jason has his hands full. Between being a captain for the fire department, owning a gym, and raising his almost twelve year old daughter, love is a just a fairytale. And after losing his wife in a horrible situation, he closed his heart off so he'd never have to feel that kind of pain again. But with Colby, he starts to wonder if finding a woman to step up to the roll of mother and enter into more of a convenience marriage would ever be enough for him or his daughter. Because as quickly as he's falling in love with the woman, Emma is too. And what will happen if the summer fling turns into so much more and ends up hurting the one person he cares the most about? Emma's lost one woman she cared about already. What will happen if she loses another?

Both Colby and Jason are in for the ride of their life. Because we all know love never goes exactly as planned. And it's about to show them that their fears are nothing compared to the kind of life they could have together.

Not only were these wonderful characters to read about, but so were their families. From Colby's overprotective big brother to Jason's sweet daughter, they all played a part in helping these two stubborn and guarded people realize that they're perfect for each other. And when Jason is injured from a fire, they ban together to help each other through the nightmare. It's the final push, besides letters from her parents, that make Colby realize that she almost gave up a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love.


I loved Rachel Harris' writing style, and her very amusing humor. I loved reading about the characters' struggles to opening up again, and seeing them find their HEA was such a treat! This book was the perfect blend of steam, romance, and witty banter. It had me laughing, crying, swooning, and kept me entertained until the very end. :)

[Jenna D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review posted on Jenna Does Books!

For anyone who is on the cusp of adulthood or is looking for a good crossover from YA to “adult” reading, TASTE THE HEAT by Rachel Harris is the perfect book for you. The title is part of Entangled Publishing’s Bliss line, which releases contemporary novels that reflect the trials and tribulations of modern love in America with a focus on family, home, a strong sense of community and happiness. This description is the perfect way to summarize the overall mood and setting of TASTE THE HEAT, an adult novel that, while undeniably hot and spine-tingly romantic, is better suited for teens than a vast majority of the “new adult” titles currently on the market.

As far as adult romances go, Rachel Harris knows how to turn up the heat, while keeping her characters grounded in reality and delightfully, well, tasteful. I swooned in all the right places, I begged for more when character interactions got “this close” to toe curling hotness and I wanted only the best for everyone involved. There are some serious situations involved here that will definitely rev up your emotions, but nothing overly-so to become melodramatic… Just a pinch of family rifts, a dash of infidelity, all blended in with a bit of the dearly departed and whatnot. The overall depth to this story about family, unrequited love and life-long friendships will have you craving additional stories about the secondary characters – which, I am happy to say, the author has confirmed will be coming!

What I love most about Rachel’s writing is her ability to put her characters into situations that reflect their unique and realistic personalities, decisions and emotions. I saw the potential in her first, super flirty young adult novel, My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century, and I experienced it again in TASTE THE HEAT. But, dare I say, it appears that Rachel has honed in on the writing elements and skills that she knows best, and she has developed an even more fleshed out cast of characters that current and new fans will surely fall in love with.

TASTE THE HEAT is a story full of preconceived notions and misunderstandings and is a complete roller coaster ride on the emotions. I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. While I found myself grinding my teeth every time one of her characters thought a silly and absurd thought or made a decision that I knew would not work out in their favor, underneath it all I felt that the story was progressing the way that it was meant to. I loved reading about how the two main characters gravitated toward, and then drifted away from, each other – back and forth, back and forth – throughout the novel. In the end, I have never encountered a more deliberate avoidance of the *glaring* truth between two characters in all of my life – but I loved every bit of it!

Everything about TASTE THE HEAT is utterly delightful and just as deliciously sweet as the tasty treats that are sprinkled throughout its pages. Oh, and it’s got firemen. Like, the GOOD kind of firemen. The kind you’ll want to snap shirtless photos of in order to make a 12 month calendar… In fact, I have created a new Twitter hashtag for how I feel about the leading fireman in TASTE THE HEAT. That’s right folks, I officially have a #JasonCrush.

For only $2.99, you’ll want to add TASTE THE HEAT to your collection of ebooks to take to the beach this summer. Too far from the beach? Well then… just pull out a blanket, find the nearest patch of grass and expect to enjoy a few hours of fresh air and some simmering summer heat… preferably in front of a building full of smokin’ hot firemen (just make sure they’re not smokin’ because the building is on fire, ok?) Trust me, you’re in for a real treat with this one!

Highly recommended to all fans of romantic stories that are full of family, food and spicy fun!