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Hot Nights #1
Into the Fire
Jackson Calabrese has a lot of nerve. He beat Lila Grant in the Culinary Academy competition using her recipes. Now, he’s opening a restaurant and wants her help? Fine, she'll fix his menu, but it's going to cost him.
Heir to the Calabrese restaurant empire, Jackson can buy anything he wants, except creativity, so he buys Lila's instead. He can craft perfect paella, but to take New York by storm he needs her innovative spark.
Skillets aren't the only things hot in the kitchen, and an uneasy truce ignites into passion. They’re great in bed, but Jackson doesn't trust her, and Lila is contemplating revenge. The restaurant opening approaches, the menu is completed, and the tables are set for one final act of betrayal. How can love bloom in the midst of such a hot mess?
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 10, 2013
425 people are currently reading
927 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Usen
22 books226 followersAmanda Usen has spent most of her life immersed in story—and butter, sugar, flour, and eggs. After graduating from college, she fortified her English BA with a degree from the Culinary Institute of America, figuring a professional chef would never be a starving writer. Amanda loves chocolate, yoga, and carbs in all forms. When she isn’t writing or cooking, she can usually be found reading or hanging out with her small menagerie of cats, ducks, and mostly-grown children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 25, 2013
So I have this problem
I kinda sorta get irritated by the 'small misunderstanding and no communication leading to one big mess scenario' in books
I mean...it might irritate me only slightly
Really no big deal, it's just I read it, and think
If I'm being honest, I began to get frustrated around the 10% mark. I almost DNF'd it 5 times. But being the masochist that I am, I drudged on, waiting and hoping that the next chapter brings with it one redeeming quality.
Jack and Lila are about to enter a culinary compeition at the Academy. Jack is rich and heir to a restaurant empire, but he is constantly trying to prove himself to his father, and hopes the competition will be his big advantage. Lila is drowning in school loans, and desperately needs the prize money from the competition to help put at least a minor dent in her debt.
So the night of their graduation party, one thing leads to another, and they sleep together. Lila has always had a crush on the sinfully sexy chef, so of course it doesn't take much from Jack to seduce her.
In the post-coital glow, they each share their planned recipes for the competition that is to take place the next day. When Lila hears Jack's recipe,she loses faith in her own recipe idea. She then runs out on him in the middle of the night, and decides to have a last minute change to her plans in order to one-up Jack.
(Lila's insecurity and doubts is a common theme here)
Now Jack is suffering from an insecurity of his own. He is constantly doubting his skill as a chef. When he hears what Lila plans to make, he thinks his own dish will pale in comparison. So he goes to the competition fully resigning himself to his inevitable loss.
Now here's where the fun part starts...
When he sees that Lila had a last minute change, he assumes that she lied to him the night before, to throw him off. So to spite her, he steals her originally planned recipe. Lila's last minute change doesn't pan out, of course, so she loses the competition, and holds the mother of all grudges for Jack for stealing her idea.
Now let's pause here, shall we? If Jack and Lila used the same recipe at the competition, they'd be disqualified. Lila changes her plan to a completely different dish. But yet she HATES Jack with a passion because he stole her idea, and she lost.
Right then...moving on
Now in the middle of opening his own restaurant, Jack is in dire need to tweak his menu. He knows of only one person that fits the bill...Lila! (duh!)
Lila drove me out of my ever loving mind in this book. She had hundreds of opportunities to talk to Jack, I mean the man brought it up often enough. But, nope, she doesn't want to come off as weak. Jack makes assumptions of his own...and this just makes for one big ol mess.
Basically, we have
Followed by Jack's idea
Then some stuff happens
(insert opportunity for conversation here for the misunderstanding to be finally resolved)
But NOPE!
Followed by Jack's idea
Then some more stuff happens
(insert plenty more opportunities for conversation here)
NOPE AGAIN!!!
Followed by Jack's idea
This goes on and on and on and on
I should have been somewhat invested in their relationship right? But NOPE!
I would expect this sort of set up in a YA or a NA novel. But this is contemporary. Their inability to communicate continues until the very last page. I almost felt like I was reading a YA novel at times, based on their conversations.
There was a resounding theme in this book. Lila doubts everything, and her response to a situation she doesn't know how to deal with is to just run away from it. Jack's idea? Use sex.
My problem with the book was with the plot and only with the plot. The writing was good, and I'd gldly read another book from this author in the future. Unfortunately this type of scenario is my ultimate hot button, and it drove me crazy.
The book ends with a perfectly cheesy HEA and they resolve all their issues, but...
*ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
I kinda sorta get irritated by the 'small misunderstanding and no communication leading to one big mess scenario' in books
I mean...it might irritate me only slightly
Really no big deal, it's just I read it, and think
If I'm being honest, I began to get frustrated around the 10% mark. I almost DNF'd it 5 times. But being the masochist that I am, I drudged on, waiting and hoping that the next chapter brings with it one redeeming quality.
Jack and Lila are about to enter a culinary compeition at the Academy. Jack is rich and heir to a restaurant empire, but he is constantly trying to prove himself to his father, and hopes the competition will be his big advantage. Lila is drowning in school loans, and desperately needs the prize money from the competition to help put at least a minor dent in her debt.
So the night of their graduation party, one thing leads to another, and they sleep together. Lila has always had a crush on the sinfully sexy chef, so of course it doesn't take much from Jack to seduce her.
In the post-coital glow, they each share their planned recipes for the competition that is to take place the next day. When Lila hears Jack's recipe,she loses faith in her own recipe idea. She then runs out on him in the middle of the night, and decides to have a last minute change to her plans in order to one-up Jack.
(Lila's insecurity and doubts is a common theme here)
Now Jack is suffering from an insecurity of his own. He is constantly doubting his skill as a chef. When he hears what Lila plans to make, he thinks his own dish will pale in comparison. So he goes to the competition fully resigning himself to his inevitable loss.
Now here's where the fun part starts...
When he sees that Lila had a last minute change, he assumes that she lied to him the night before, to throw him off. So to spite her, he steals her originally planned recipe. Lila's last minute change doesn't pan out, of course, so she loses the competition, and holds the mother of all grudges for Jack for stealing her idea.
Now let's pause here, shall we? If Jack and Lila used the same recipe at the competition, they'd be disqualified. Lila changes her plan to a completely different dish. But yet she HATES Jack with a passion because he stole her idea, and she lost.
Right then...moving on
Now in the middle of opening his own restaurant, Jack is in dire need to tweak his menu. He knows of only one person that fits the bill...Lila! (duh!)
Lila drove me out of my ever loving mind in this book. She had hundreds of opportunities to talk to Jack, I mean the man brought it up often enough. But, nope, she doesn't want to come off as weak. Jack makes assumptions of his own...and this just makes for one big ol mess.
Basically, we have
Followed by Jack's idea
Then some stuff happens
(insert opportunity for conversation here for the misunderstanding to be finally resolved)
But NOPE!
Followed by Jack's idea
Then some more stuff happens
(insert plenty more opportunities for conversation here)
NOPE AGAIN!!!
Followed by Jack's idea
This goes on and on and on and on
I should have been somewhat invested in their relationship right? But NOPE!
I would expect this sort of set up in a YA or a NA novel. But this is contemporary. Their inability to communicate continues until the very last page. I almost felt like I was reading a YA novel at times, based on their conversations.
"You need to talk to your dad, Jack. Talk, not yell."
"If you like him so much, you talk to him."
There was a resounding theme in this book. Lila doubts everything, and her response to a situation she doesn't know how to deal with is to just run away from it. Jack's idea? Use sex.
My problem with the book was with the plot and only with the plot. The writing was good, and I'd gldly read another book from this author in the future. Unfortunately this type of scenario is my ultimate hot button, and it drove me crazy.
The book ends with a perfectly cheesy HEA and they resolve all their issues, but...
*ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
May 19, 2014
4 - "Pick your position, sweetheart. Ladies choice" Stars.
I really enjoyed this one Jack and Lila, were both likeable and easy to get along with.
A love story with lots of food in it is always going to ring my bell, and this was a great, entertaining sexy read, not too long, it hits all the right spots and leaves the tastebuds tingling!
Looking forward to Jenna's story in Seducing the Playboy, out on 26 May 2014.
I really enjoyed this one Jack and Lila, were both likeable and easy to get along with.
A love story with lots of food in it is always going to ring my bell, and this was a great, entertaining sexy read, not too long, it hits all the right spots and leaves the tastebuds tingling!
Looking forward to Jenna's story in Seducing the Playboy, out on 26 May 2014.
February 4, 2018
This is my first book by Amanda Usen and it was pleasant. It had a quick paced feel to it, with a second chances trope. Jackson and Lila are frenemies at culinary school. Both of them via for the top spot and push each other to be better. But things go south when the fall into bed with one another and fail to communicate. That was the biggest problem between these two: communicating with one another. Fast froward six months later and Jackson offers Lila a lucrative deal that would require them to work together. Both of them have issues with self-belief and trusting their own capabilities. Lots of sexy times between them with delicious dishes thrown into the mix. I was salivating with some of the things they were creating.
A nice and easy read and I'll be back for more.
A nice and easy read and I'll be back for more.
April 26, 2021
Once upon a time Jackson Calabrese and Lila Grant were culinary school rivals, until he beat her in a culinary competition with an idea he got from her. Now she's a catering chef and sometimes waitress while he's about to open his first big name restaurant -- except he feels like his menu is missing something. He's determined to get her help, whether she wants to or not.
This is a smoking hot enemies-to-lovers romance. At first glance, Jackson seems like an average entitled rich guy, buying the company she works for to get her to help him. But in reality, he only needs her help because his hyper-critical father has never approved of anything he's done. Lila is angry at Jackson for stealing an idea she never intended to use in the competition, but mostly because of his ego and privilege. When they finally understand each other and come together, it's wonderful.
This is a smoking hot enemies-to-lovers romance. At first glance, Jackson seems like an average entitled rich guy, buying the company she works for to get her to help him. But in reality, he only needs her help because his hyper-critical father has never approved of anything he's done. Lila is angry at Jackson for stealing an idea she never intended to use in the competition, but mostly because of his ego and privilege. When they finally understand each other and come together, it's wonderful.
December 28, 2017
I really liked both the hero and heroine, though I did want to smack both of them upside the head at one point or the other. Stubborn, prideful idiots! Miscommunication is used so well in books that it mimics real life a little too well. You would think as readers we'd translate this knowledge to our personal situations but of course, we don't so I can't fault the characters for doing the same. Hence the 5 stars. Loved it!
May 19, 2013
This was a fabulous read from start to finish. Amanda Usen has given us a book that has romance, sexiness, humour, wonderful realistic characters a great storyline and food. And for someone who loves all of the above, it was a perfect read.
Lila and Jackson were wonderful easy to love characters. Both chefs, they studied together and at their graduation party, before competing in the Culinary Academy competition, engaged is some hot extra curricular activities. Foody secrets are shared and fallout ensues. Lila is feisty, witty, kind, creative and struggling financially. Jackson is sexy, moody, charming, bossy and out of her league; from a wealthy family he is following in his Dad's footsteps and has been gifted a restaurant. Lacking creativity and desperate to be a success and make his Dad proud, he hunts Lila down. With opposite agenda's, for her 3 weeks to make him suffer for the past, for him 3 weeks to win her heart, what is it they say, if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen? And is revenge really a dish best served cold...
Together, the sparks flew and their chemistry was perfect. With Jack's determination up against Lila's stubbornness, it was passionate and tender with moments that were heartwarming and others that tugged on the heartstrings. An inferno in the kitchen and most definitely in the bedroom, I laughed, I swooned and I made those sighs of appreciation we romantic women are prone to. The only thing that was missing for me was an epilogue, which would have finished their story off perfectly, nevertheless this most definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and is well worth every star. Question is, will we be treated to more, because with so many great secondary characters there must be other stories to tell...
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Lila and Jackson were wonderful easy to love characters. Both chefs, they studied together and at their graduation party, before competing in the Culinary Academy competition, engaged is some hot extra curricular activities. Foody secrets are shared and fallout ensues. Lila is feisty, witty, kind, creative and struggling financially. Jackson is sexy, moody, charming, bossy and out of her league; from a wealthy family he is following in his Dad's footsteps and has been gifted a restaurant. Lacking creativity and desperate to be a success and make his Dad proud, he hunts Lila down. With opposite agenda's, for her 3 weeks to make him suffer for the past, for him 3 weeks to win her heart, what is it they say, if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen? And is revenge really a dish best served cold...
Together, the sparks flew and their chemistry was perfect. With Jack's determination up against Lila's stubbornness, it was passionate and tender with moments that were heartwarming and others that tugged on the heartstrings. An inferno in the kitchen and most definitely in the bedroom, I laughed, I swooned and I made those sighs of appreciation we romantic women are prone to. The only thing that was missing for me was an epilogue, which would have finished their story off perfectly, nevertheless this most definitely a book that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend and is well worth every star. Question is, will we be treated to more, because with so many great secondary characters there must be other stories to tell...
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 14, 2013
Review
Lila Grant been waiting forever to finally shine through her culinary graduates but she faces her competetion Jack Calabrese the man who has it all and has the family name that does him justice. It true what they say, Chefs never share their secret recipes. Just before the big cook off, Lila and Jack dive into their indulgence and desires but once the cook off started, it was anyone's kitchen. Months later after Lila took off to do her own thing after being upstaged by Jack Calabrese, she hoped she never see that Jack again until now . . . The growing love and hate romance get hotter and it might be too hot for both chefs to handle. A determine Jack wants to rekindle with Lila whenther she denies it or not but Jack also asked of her help with his new resturant opening and believes his menus aren't good enough. Can these two work together or will it be Chopped?
I give this a 5 Cat's Tails, I love the mixture of food and romance, heck even the whole back and forth arguing about anything and everything that deals with them and food.
Be sure to stop at my blog on June 17th for my guest post with Amanda USen as she talked about her top favorite scenes/passages.
Lila Grant been waiting forever to finally shine through her culinary graduates but she faces her competetion Jack Calabrese the man who has it all and has the family name that does him justice. It true what they say, Chefs never share their secret recipes. Just before the big cook off, Lila and Jack dive into their indulgence and desires but once the cook off started, it was anyone's kitchen. Months later after Lila took off to do her own thing after being upstaged by Jack Calabrese, she hoped she never see that Jack again until now . . . The growing love and hate romance get hotter and it might be too hot for both chefs to handle. A determine Jack wants to rekindle with Lila whenther she denies it or not but Jack also asked of her help with his new resturant opening and believes his menus aren't good enough. Can these two work together or will it be Chopped?
I give this a 5 Cat's Tails, I love the mixture of food and romance, heck even the whole back and forth arguing about anything and everything that deals with them and food.
Be sure to stop at my blog on June 17th for my guest post with Amanda USen as she talked about her top favorite scenes/passages.
November 1, 2016
*4- Stars*
This book was basically one great big misunderstanding! And it worked. The problems were well rooted in the hero and heroine's insecurities, so it was understandable how they acted and reacted. I enjoyed it and would read the author again - especially for that U in her last name!
This book was basically one great big misunderstanding! And it worked. The problems were well rooted in the hero and heroine's insecurities, so it was understandable how they acted and reacted. I enjoyed it and would read the author again - especially for that U in her last name!
August 24, 2015
Sex, food, and revenge! A winning combination which Into the Fire definitely has! Lila and Jackson went to culinary school together, and hooked up one night before a big competition. Their pillow talk consisted of what they'd be cooking the next morning. Not being sure of his intentions, Lila changes her menu, and not sure if she lied to him or not, he cooks her dish! Six months later, the two are still mad each other, but Jack needs Lila's creative touch for his new menu, and she really needs the money. Hopefully with a side of vengeance.
Into the Fire was fun and made me hungry! So much food and food talk! And there's plenty of hate sex! The tension is super high between these rival chefs, but they can't keep their hands off of each other. It seems like whenever they start arguing, clothes start coming off! Sadly, there are no sex scenes including food. I expected that to be a given, but oh well.
The one thing that did bother me about Into the Fire and kept me from loving it was Jack basically buying Lila's attention. I do not think it's okay in anyway for a man to purchase a woman's workplace to force her into anything. Jack was desperate for her help, but to me, he overstepped by buying the company she worked for, becoming her boss in order to become her boss again....if that makes sense. It's not okay!
Despite that one issue, I did really enjoy Into the Fire. Lila and Jack work well together in the kitchen and in the bedroom, even though they bumped heads everywhere else! There's also a touching storyline involving Jack's seemingly heartless father.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Into the Fire was fun and made me hungry! So much food and food talk! And there's plenty of hate sex! The tension is super high between these rival chefs, but they can't keep their hands off of each other. It seems like whenever they start arguing, clothes start coming off! Sadly, there are no sex scenes including food. I expected that to be a given, but oh well.
The one thing that did bother me about Into the Fire and kept me from loving it was Jack basically buying Lila's attention. I do not think it's okay in anyway for a man to purchase a woman's workplace to force her into anything. Jack was desperate for her help, but to me, he overstepped by buying the company she worked for, becoming her boss in order to become her boss again....if that makes sense. It's not okay!
Despite that one issue, I did really enjoy Into the Fire. Lila and Jack work well together in the kitchen and in the bedroom, even though they bumped heads everywhere else! There's also a touching storyline involving Jack's seemingly heartless father.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
June 30, 2013
***4.5 out of 5 stars***
I was lucky enough to get a review copy thanks to the publisher from NetGalley. This is the first book I've read from Amanda Usen, but won't be my last.
I completely fell for both Lila and Jackson from the very first chapter. The misunderstandings that take place between them only added to the chemistry they share both in the kitchen and in the bedroom.
While I love Lila and Jack as a couple, I really loved that it took Lila to make Jack see how great a chef he really is. Both Lila and Jack are so very talented in the kitchen, but Jack has never felt like he measured up to others. He comes from kitchen royalty, and is still trying to find a way to make his father proud of him. Only because of Lila does he finally see his true talent.
I love books that take place in restaurants, and I'm already counting down until I can read another book from this series. I was lucky enough to meet the author at Lori Foster’s Reader Author Get Together this year and have already bought the books in her Sexy Chef Series for my kindle. Excited for more books in the Hot Night Series in the future. For more information about the author or her books, check out her website.
I was lucky enough to get a review copy thanks to the publisher from NetGalley. This is the first book I've read from Amanda Usen, but won't be my last.
I completely fell for both Lila and Jackson from the very first chapter. The misunderstandings that take place between them only added to the chemistry they share both in the kitchen and in the bedroom.
While I love Lila and Jack as a couple, I really loved that it took Lila to make Jack see how great a chef he really is. Both Lila and Jack are so very talented in the kitchen, but Jack has never felt like he measured up to others. He comes from kitchen royalty, and is still trying to find a way to make his father proud of him. Only because of Lila does he finally see his true talent.
I love books that take place in restaurants, and I'm already counting down until I can read another book from this series. I was lucky enough to meet the author at Lori Foster’s Reader Author Get Together this year and have already bought the books in her Sexy Chef Series for my kindle. Excited for more books in the Hot Night Series in the future. For more information about the author or her books, check out her website.
August 15, 2015
This was a quick, sexy and cute story about two chefs who are both attracted to each other, but their lack of confidence hinders their relationship. Delilah Grant and Jackson Calabrese met in culinary school and share a night of passion right before a big cook-off competition. Six months later Lily is struggling to make ends meet at a catering company and Jackson is getting ready to open his own restaurant. Misunderstandings and lack of communication abound, but neither can stop the passion the two feel for each other. These were likable, if somewhat frustrating, characters with a fast paced story and lots of of moments.
June 26, 2013
3.5 stars rounding up to 4 stars
July 25, 2018
Incredibly good book. Lila and Jackson are the top two students at Culinary school and polar opposites .Jackson comes from a wealthy family who already own multiple award winning restaurants across the city, winning this last competition in school and the prize money is of no consequence to him.
Lila needs the money, she's in debt in loans, she's working a couple jobs and this is her second time around in school, dropping out of college as an art major and finding herself truly as a chef. She's good. The good she is, makes up for Jackson's lack of confidence. The night before the final cook off the two spend the night together and share their recipes as part of the pillow talk. Lila leaves Jackson in his bed, nervous about the test the next day and whether or not her recipe is going to be good enough, she decides at the last minute to change it. Jackson sees what she's doing as thinks she's lied to him and so decides to steal her recipe winning the final. Lila doesn't even show up for graduation.
Jackson is sure he's been betrayed and I spent most of the book hating this jack hat for the way he manipulated and treated Lila. The other half he allowed himself to be bullied by his father. When he basically blackmails Lila into working for him knowing his grand opening of his restaurant is coming soon and doesn't have the confidence in his own menu, he offers her a big fat check, buys the business she's working for and essentially forces her to work for him. She finally agrees. Oh but it's conditional. She gets nothing if he doesn't get good reviews by the NY Times. Kind of a heavy burden to put on someones shoulders. Lila and Jack definitely put out some steam and Jack doesn't care where they are. He takes when he feels like it. Lila finds herself getting in deeper and deeper with Jack, when things go wrong he blames Lila. Jacks father goes away and leaving Jack in charge of the other places he owns, Jack's running around putting out fires instead of spending time with Lila going over the menu. There is a huge gap in communication between these two and Jack is always second guessing Lila, still angry about what he perceived what her betrayal at school... when the reality is he screwed her. Along with himself. He's pretty much a prick throughout the book. He's got his tender moments that give Lila some hope when she realizes her feelings go a little further than the kitchen.
When she finally meets Jacks father and rips him a new one, she finds herself privy to some info that Jack isn't aware of, she tries to encourage Jack to talk to his father, he refuses. Opening night is coming all too quickly and Jack has something to prove. Lila has revamped the whole menu from Jack's original menu which was really good. The last part of the book hit me hard, I choked at the one scene. Nope, I kid you not. I told myself to suck it up and took a two minute time out I was so blindsided by what happened. Dumbfounded as Lila, I wandered through the rest of the book.
Jack's cruelty knows no bounds. Lila is a lovely, creative likable character and what a fantastic story.
I read this book back when it came out but am happy for the opportunity to read it again and to review it. Giving it the props it deserves. Amanda Usen writes a great story and this is no exception. This is one you won't want to miss.
*advanced copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
2nd look
Lila needs the money, she's in debt in loans, she's working a couple jobs and this is her second time around in school, dropping out of college as an art major and finding herself truly as a chef. She's good. The good she is, makes up for Jackson's lack of confidence. The night before the final cook off the two spend the night together and share their recipes as part of the pillow talk. Lila leaves Jackson in his bed, nervous about the test the next day and whether or not her recipe is going to be good enough, she decides at the last minute to change it. Jackson sees what she's doing as thinks she's lied to him and so decides to steal her recipe winning the final. Lila doesn't even show up for graduation.
Jackson is sure he's been betrayed and I spent most of the book hating this jack hat for the way he manipulated and treated Lila. The other half he allowed himself to be bullied by his father. When he basically blackmails Lila into working for him knowing his grand opening of his restaurant is coming soon and doesn't have the confidence in his own menu, he offers her a big fat check, buys the business she's working for and essentially forces her to work for him. She finally agrees. Oh but it's conditional. She gets nothing if he doesn't get good reviews by the NY Times. Kind of a heavy burden to put on someones shoulders. Lila and Jack definitely put out some steam and Jack doesn't care where they are. He takes when he feels like it. Lila finds herself getting in deeper and deeper with Jack, when things go wrong he blames Lila. Jacks father goes away and leaving Jack in charge of the other places he owns, Jack's running around putting out fires instead of spending time with Lila going over the menu. There is a huge gap in communication between these two and Jack is always second guessing Lila, still angry about what he perceived what her betrayal at school... when the reality is he screwed her. Along with himself. He's pretty much a prick throughout the book. He's got his tender moments that give Lila some hope when she realizes her feelings go a little further than the kitchen.
When she finally meets Jacks father and rips him a new one, she finds herself privy to some info that Jack isn't aware of, she tries to encourage Jack to talk to his father, he refuses. Opening night is coming all too quickly and Jack has something to prove. Lila has revamped the whole menu from Jack's original menu which was really good. The last part of the book hit me hard, I choked at the one scene. Nope, I kid you not. I told myself to suck it up and took a two minute time out I was so blindsided by what happened. Dumbfounded as Lila, I wandered through the rest of the book.
Jack's cruelty knows no bounds. Lila is a lovely, creative likable character and what a fantastic story.
I read this book back when it came out but am happy for the opportunity to read it again and to review it. Giving it the props it deserves. Amanda Usen writes a great story and this is no exception. This is one you won't want to miss.
*advanced copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
2nd look
May 26, 2017
So I liked this book, and yet I didn't. I didn't like the characters, they shit me to tears 97% of the book. She claims she hates him, yet is always complaining that he's not around and getting angry about it. Her whole aim of the book is childish (to get back at him for 'stealing' her competition dish she told him about after their night of sex, even though she wasn't cooking that dish for the competition anyway). And I admit, him cooking the duck dish to spite her for 'lying' to him that she was cooking the duck dish and not cooking it, was stupid, but in no way does that mean she should sabotage his fucking career. My mind was literally exploding at how stupid everyone was. They both shouldn't be cooks for the fact neither of them is confident in their own abilities AT ALL. She didn't think her idea was good enough, changed it and flopped in the competition (that at the end of the day didn't REALLY matter because she's still living in fucking NY and surviving/runs the kitchen she works at) and he thinks his father hates his food because he never praises him, so he gets her to change his whole menu to 'perfect' it... Like, whyyyyyyyy. And then they say they hate each other and keep having sex, like she'd be thinking of how much he was a dog and then kiss him back... I can't even with how much I rolled my eyes. But at the same time, it was entertaining. I must admit however, I have a teeth clenching issue like the hero in this book, and I always do it much more when there is teeth clenching mentioned in a book... This guy does it so often my jaw is now sore, and I'm really feeling for him to be honest!
May 8, 2020
#1 in the Hot Nights romance series
What a pleasant surprise from a new-to-me author! Both characters are appealing, and I knew exactly what each was feeling. Jack and Lila graduated from cooking school together, in a competition that ended on a bad note. Although talented and attractive, both characters have doubts and insecurities about themselves, often finding themselves in situations where misunderstandings create even more problems between them. Jack thinks he needs Lila's creativity in the kitchen to make him a success. Lila thinks Jack only wants her sexually because of their contract. Jack can't ever live up to his father's expectations. Lila sees her curves as unattractive extra weight. It's frustrating, but in a fun way, and I was definitely rooting for their success as a couple since they bring out the best in each other whenever they let down their guards. Although not a cook, I enjoyed reading about the creation of menus and other behind-the-scenes action in a restaurant kitchen. I will definitely continue with this series, as I enjoyed it very much.
What a pleasant surprise from a new-to-me author! Both characters are appealing, and I knew exactly what each was feeling. Jack and Lila graduated from cooking school together, in a competition that ended on a bad note. Although talented and attractive, both characters have doubts and insecurities about themselves, often finding themselves in situations where misunderstandings create even more problems between them. Jack thinks he needs Lila's creativity in the kitchen to make him a success. Lila thinks Jack only wants her sexually because of their contract. Jack can't ever live up to his father's expectations. Lila sees her curves as unattractive extra weight. It's frustrating, but in a fun way, and I was definitely rooting for their success as a couple since they bring out the best in each other whenever they let down their guards. Although not a cook, I enjoyed reading about the creation of menus and other behind-the-scenes action in a restaurant kitchen. I will definitely continue with this series, as I enjoyed it very much.
November 13, 2022
Delicious food and hot sex? Okay. You have my attention.
This is a fast paced easy read. I read it in one sitting and enjoyed it from the beginning to end. It wasn't plagued by a lot of the romance tropes that drive me.
Lila is an interesting character. She is obviously talented and creative but has a tendency to turn tail. She is supported by two close friends who act as both cheerleaders and devil's advocate. She works hard and has lots of spirit (a must for my heroines). She is impetuous and I thoroughly enjoyed her character.
Jackson is hot. He is described as very handsome but the personality he has is very sensual. He has a thirst to prove himself but also can't get out of his own way.
Honestly the pair mesh well and both elevate the other's skills.
I am a big fan of second chance stories. I like the already established emotional connections between characters, it lends weight to their interactions and relationship.
It was good way to pass a sleepless night.
This is a fast paced easy read. I read it in one sitting and enjoyed it from the beginning to end. It wasn't plagued by a lot of the romance tropes that drive me.
Lila is an interesting character. She is obviously talented and creative but has a tendency to turn tail. She is supported by two close friends who act as both cheerleaders and devil's advocate. She works hard and has lots of spirit (a must for my heroines). She is impetuous and I thoroughly enjoyed her character.
Jackson is hot. He is described as very handsome but the personality he has is very sensual. He has a thirst to prove himself but also can't get out of his own way.
Honestly the pair mesh well and both elevate the other's skills.
I am a big fan of second chance stories. I like the already established emotional connections between characters, it lends weight to their interactions and relationship.
It was good way to pass a sleepless night.
September 9, 2018
Wow! Excellent fast paced STEAMY kitchen cooking romance !! Jackson & Lila were so much fun to read about! This is the kind of book that draws you in immediately & you simply cannot put it down because the tension & chemistry between these two is so great & Amanda certainly does not make you wait to explore that chemistry! I totally loved the whole concept of the plot & the super authentic family feel & great out of this world food & cooking descriptions that were depicted throughout! Superb job making me never want to set it aside for a moment the whole time and was reading it! A must have sexy foodie romance read set in the NY restaurant districts!
April 21, 2019
Competing Cooks
Good story about cooks in school and their final competition before graduating. Jack won with Lila’s idea which she told him after he took her to bed. They led their lives without each other until Jack found her and planned a meeting. He was opening a new restaurant and thought he needed her help. He got her to agree to work with him to improve his new menu. Very interesting story!
Good story about cooks in school and their final competition before graduating. Jack won with Lila’s idea which she told him after he took her to bed. They led their lives without each other until Jack found her and planned a meeting. He was opening a new restaurant and thought he needed her help. He got her to agree to work with him to improve his new menu. Very interesting story!
October 7, 2017
I liked the plot, but I felt like there were too many sex scenes and they got in the way of the story. I wanted to skip all those parts and just read more plot. I think cooking rivals is such a cute trope. Also, Jack was way too insecure. I didn't like that aspect, but that was basically his whole aspect.
August 8, 2018
4.0 - nice read. Not too in depth emotionally but definitely not fluff. The push and pull of their feelings, as well as their hurtful words to each other, get a little tiring after a while and I kind of want to smack some sense into them both. But, I liked how they slowly built trust, and hung out, and bonus: the bedroom scenes were very steamy!
September 14, 2018
Great storyline
Well written with good descriptive passages steamy without what some consider bad language. Make sure you have a snack handy as the menus and foods made my mouth water and I was starving! The author writes the synopsis far better than I ever could suffice to say definitely worth the time and money.
Recommend with 4.5 Stars
Well written with good descriptive passages steamy without what some consider bad language. Make sure you have a snack handy as the menus and foods made my mouth water and I was starving! The author writes the synopsis far better than I ever could suffice to say definitely worth the time and money.
Recommend with 4.5 Stars
June 10, 2019
Jackson Calabrese and Lila Grant are the finalists at the culinary school. The night before the big competition they have sex and tell the other person what they will be preparing. Big mistake. Lila starts second guessing her choice and changes the menu at the last minute so he makes what she had planned and wins.
July 19, 2018
A quick read. Something you would read laying on the beach on vacation. Cool characters with lots of foods that will make your stomach rumble. There are are a lot of characters but not a lot of depth just a lot of fun.
July 29, 2018
Into the Fire is the first book in the Hot Nights series and the first book I have read by Amanda Usen. A nice start to this new series and I will be reading more. Jackson and Lila are good characters and make for an enjoyable read.
August 12, 2018
Good read
Quick read with much lust and food.
It takes just about the whole book for Lila and Jack to realize that they really do love each other and it’s more then just the lust and propositions.
Quick read with much lust and food.
It takes just about the whole book for Lila and Jack to realize that they really do love each other and it’s more then just the lust and propositions.
September 3, 2018
Fun easy read. Some minor irritation in the lack of communication, but pretty typical for a light, standard romance plot. Set up was interesting sounding and unique enough to pique my interest, and overall enjoyed this.
December 26, 2021
Hot
Jack and Lila are hot one minute and then frustrating the next. Lila is a frustrating character. I like her but I don't. I felt more sorry for Jack, he was trying so hard. Good story line, but I was disappointed with the ending. Don't get me wrong the ending was good and they both got their HEA, but I wanted more. I felt so invested in the characters that I felt short changed at the end.
Even though I wanted more, this series is a good read and fast too. That is why I gave it a 4 star and not a 3 star.
Jack and Lila are hot one minute and then frustrating the next. Lila is a frustrating character. I like her but I don't. I felt more sorry for Jack, he was trying so hard. Good story line, but I was disappointed with the ending. Don't get me wrong the ending was good and they both got their HEA, but I wanted more. I felt so invested in the characters that I felt short changed at the end.
Even though I wanted more, this series is a good read and fast too. That is why I gave it a 4 star and not a 3 star.
August 7, 2018
A Passionate pair.
I would have given this book five stars if the heroine wasn't such a drama queen. But overall it's a really good read.
I would have given this book five stars if the heroine wasn't such a drama queen. But overall it's a really good read.
August 8, 2018
5 Stars
I would recommend this book to adults who enjoy stories that are funny, steamy and romantic, with wonderful characters both male and female.
I would recommend this book to adults who enjoy stories that are funny, steamy and romantic, with wonderful characters both male and female.
September 24, 2018
Sizzling
I read this book in less than a day simply because I couldn't put it down and didn't want it to end . Totally riveting
I read this book in less than a day simply because I couldn't put it down and didn't want it to end . Totally riveting
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