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Restaurantland Romance #1
Kitchen Heat
Take one single mom, add one devastatingly handsome but broken man, stir in an eclectic mix of misfits from the weirdest city in the U.S., jack up the temperature, and you have Kitchen Heat: A Restaurantland Romance. Kathleen McFall and Clark Hays of The Halo Trilogy and The Cowboy and the Vampire fame have flexed their writing muscles again in a whole new direction, and it’s their steamiest yet.
Welcome to the Rose and Thorn restaurant where laughter and romance are always on the menu.
Kassi is ever the optimist. She uprooted her life and moved across the country with her young daughter to give her damaged marriage one last shot. Now she's broke, stuck in Portland and feeling like an idiot. Worse, her degree in filmmaking won’t pay the bills.
When Kassi lands a waitress job at the infamous Rose and Thorn restaurant, she thinks her luck may finally be changing, especially after meeting Clay—head chef and the most beautiful man she’s ever seen. Their white-hot attraction is instant and undeniable. But after her marriage disaster, Kassi has sworn off relationships or even dating, maybe forever.
So, what's a girl to do? Put him in a sexy screenplay, of course.
Kassi is writing a movie script for a contest. It’s a long shot, an impossible shot, but it could be her ticket to Hollywood. She comes up with a new plot about a hot chef and a waitress falling madly in love (and bed).
It doesn’t take long before Kassi's imaginary relationship and reality collide in unpredictable ways but as things steam up in the restaurant kitchen, not everyone may be able to stand the heat, including hunky Clay. Turns out he’s dealing with a heartbreak of his own that he may never get over, not even for Kassi.
The first book in the Restaurantland Romance series, Kitchen Heat is a slow-burn friends-to-lovers story crackling with off-beat humor and featuring a flirtatious cast of waiters, customers and cooks, set in the pre-internet 1990s before cells, social media and streaming.
Welcome to the Rose and Thorn restaurant where laughter and romance are always on the menu.
Kassi is ever the optimist. She uprooted her life and moved across the country with her young daughter to give her damaged marriage one last shot. Now she's broke, stuck in Portland and feeling like an idiot. Worse, her degree in filmmaking won’t pay the bills.
When Kassi lands a waitress job at the infamous Rose and Thorn restaurant, she thinks her luck may finally be changing, especially after meeting Clay—head chef and the most beautiful man she’s ever seen. Their white-hot attraction is instant and undeniable. But after her marriage disaster, Kassi has sworn off relationships or even dating, maybe forever.
So, what's a girl to do? Put him in a sexy screenplay, of course.
Kassi is writing a movie script for a contest. It’s a long shot, an impossible shot, but it could be her ticket to Hollywood. She comes up with a new plot about a hot chef and a waitress falling madly in love (and bed).
It doesn’t take long before Kassi's imaginary relationship and reality collide in unpredictable ways but as things steam up in the restaurant kitchen, not everyone may be able to stand the heat, including hunky Clay. Turns out he’s dealing with a heartbreak of his own that he may never get over, not even for Kassi.
The first book in the Restaurantland Romance series, Kitchen Heat is a slow-burn friends-to-lovers story crackling with off-beat humor and featuring a flirtatious cast of waiters, customers and cooks, set in the pre-internet 1990s before cells, social media and streaming.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2023
3 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen McFall
17 books139 followersI live, write and play in the Pacific Northwest, not far from vampire country. I love genre fiction, and with Clark, I've written twelve books.
Our first book, published two decades ago, was about a cowboy and vampire falling in love. This sexy, authentically Western, laugh-out-loud series also has a serious metaphysical edge and has now moved into cult-classic status. We wrote four books in the Cowboy and Vampire Collection and then branched out into science fiction, alt-history, and romance. As you can tell by our moving from genre to genre, our interests are eclectic. We like to explore and shake up tropes.
As for my bio, I was born in Washington, DC, and spent many years working as a journalist and science writer. I love to hike, hang out around water and spend time with family and friends. I'm also working on an art project in which I paint geologic slices of the earth. Check out Instagram @katmcfall for more on that.
Our first book, published two decades ago, was about a cowboy and vampire falling in love. This sexy, authentically Western, laugh-out-loud series also has a serious metaphysical edge and has now moved into cult-classic status. We wrote four books in the Cowboy and Vampire Collection and then branched out into science fiction, alt-history, and romance. As you can tell by our moving from genre to genre, our interests are eclectic. We like to explore and shake up tropes.
As for my bio, I was born in Washington, DC, and spent many years working as a journalist and science writer. I love to hike, hang out around water and spend time with family and friends. I'm also working on an art project in which I paint geologic slices of the earth. Check out Instagram @katmcfall for more on that.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 26, 2024
This author duo knows how to write engaging books in a variety of genres.
This romance (with some steamy scenes) is set in the 90s. A time before cell phones and modern technology adds to the complexity of the story since you have to think back to what the days were like before cell phones, commonplace computers, and more.
Kassi is an interesting woman. She left a bad marriage (emotional abuse) to keep her daughter, Samantha, safe. Yet, she moves to where the ex is so that he can see their daughter. I think he still has a hold on her despite her attempts to move on. He is not a very nice guy.
Clay is getting over a failed marriage, not due to his failings but his ex-wife's. However, he holds too much in and has difficulty trusting anyone. He has much to learn if he wants to be in another relationship.
I enjoyed Kassi and Clay's relationship because they didn't jump into bed with one another; they took it slow. This was partially due to their insecurities and also Kassi's daughter. It wasn't a smooth ride, but when it took off, it was HOT! I think it works because it is based on friendship first before anything else. Not that it was perfect because they had their issues with communication and trust.
There are other characters who add charm, humor, and tension to the book. While some of the characters made me cringe at times, they helped propel the story forward and dimension to the plot.
I also liked the restaurant and how the owner sought to give people who might need it a leg up in life. She didn't care who they were or their circumstances but took each broken spirit and helped mend them with this restaurant.
Because Kassi is a budding screenwriter, I liked how each chapter began with scene blocking. This tied in with her career and also gave us an idea of where the characters were or what might happen next.
The story has its ups and downs, but in the end, there is the HEA.
This romance (with some steamy scenes) is set in the 90s. A time before cell phones and modern technology adds to the complexity of the story since you have to think back to what the days were like before cell phones, commonplace computers, and more.
Kassi is an interesting woman. She left a bad marriage (emotional abuse) to keep her daughter, Samantha, safe. Yet, she moves to where the ex is so that he can see their daughter. I think he still has a hold on her despite her attempts to move on. He is not a very nice guy.
Clay is getting over a failed marriage, not due to his failings but his ex-wife's. However, he holds too much in and has difficulty trusting anyone. He has much to learn if he wants to be in another relationship.
I enjoyed Kassi and Clay's relationship because they didn't jump into bed with one another; they took it slow. This was partially due to their insecurities and also Kassi's daughter. It wasn't a smooth ride, but when it took off, it was HOT! I think it works because it is based on friendship first before anything else. Not that it was perfect because they had their issues with communication and trust.
There are other characters who add charm, humor, and tension to the book. While some of the characters made me cringe at times, they helped propel the story forward and dimension to the plot.
I also liked the restaurant and how the owner sought to give people who might need it a leg up in life. She didn't care who they were or their circumstances but took each broken spirit and helped mend them with this restaurant.
Because Kassi is a budding screenwriter, I liked how each chapter began with scene blocking. This tied in with her career and also gave us an idea of where the characters were or what might happen next.
The story has its ups and downs, but in the end, there is the HEA.
October 15, 2023
Kitchen Heat is set in the 90's and I love that❤️. When gadgets weren't famous unlike today the people seem to focus on new technologies. Before It was simplier but still fun. There were some lines that made me laugh so much I even said "I agree so much because I'm from the future haha. Because I'm reading this in the year 2023 hahaha"
I really like the character of Kassi and Clay and the bond between them. I think they are soulmates. Overall I enjoyed reading Kitchen Heat.
I really like the character of Kassi and Clay and the bond between them. I think they are soulmates. Overall I enjoyed reading Kitchen Heat.
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November 15, 2023I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5/5 Stars ⭐️
“Kitchen Heat” by Kathleen McFall and Clark Hays follows the story of Kassie, a single mom struggling with a divorce, getting a job as a waitress at a restaurant, where she meets Clay, our heartbroken heartthrob.
I LOVED THIS BOOK. I finished this book in a couple of hours, after quite a few DNFs, so it's safe to say that it got me hooked. I was a bit skeptical of it being formatted like a screenplay, but the setting setters at the beginning of each chapter really helped set the scene and give a (non-spoiler-y) sneak peek of what was to come.
I loved Kassie and Clay and I loved their chemistry and individual development. However, what I loved the most was The Rose and Thorn fam. Although we only got a glimpse of each of the side characters’ stories, I loved how nuanced they each were and the diversity that shone through.
I also loved how the book portrayed Kassie and Barry’s divorce, and how it shined a light that a relationship can be abusive without there being physical violence.
My favorite character was Samantha, hands down.
I felt like there were a few characters whose later actions didn’t fit in with their personas, almost like they developed off screen but we weren’t present for this development (cough cough, Crystal, and veryy slightly Roz).
If you like slow burn romances in a restaurant setting, I’d really recommend getting your hands on a copy of this book ASAP.
Rating: 5/5 Stars ⭐️
“Kitchen Heat” by Kathleen McFall and Clark Hays follows the story of Kassie, a single mom struggling with a divorce, getting a job as a waitress at a restaurant, where she meets Clay, our heartbroken heartthrob.
I LOVED THIS BOOK. I finished this book in a couple of hours, after quite a few DNFs, so it's safe to say that it got me hooked. I was a bit skeptical of it being formatted like a screenplay, but the setting setters at the beginning of each chapter really helped set the scene and give a (non-spoiler-y) sneak peek of what was to come.
I loved Kassie and Clay and I loved their chemistry and individual development. However, what I loved the most was The Rose and Thorn fam. Although we only got a glimpse of each of the side characters’ stories, I loved how nuanced they each were and the diversity that shone through.
I also loved how the book portrayed Kassie and Barry’s divorce, and how it shined a light that a relationship can be abusive without there being physical violence.
My favorite character was Samantha, hands down.
I felt like there were a few characters whose later actions didn’t fit in with their personas, almost like they developed off screen but we weren’t present for this development (cough cough, Crystal, and veryy slightly Roz).
If you like slow burn romances in a restaurant setting, I’d really recommend getting your hands on a copy of this book ASAP.
January 13, 2026
BOOK: KITCHEN HEAT
AUTHOR: KATHLEEN MCFALL AND CLARK HAYS
PUB DATE: 02 NOVEMBER 2023
📽👨🏼🍳
REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
👨🏼🍳📽
My favorite part of this book is the workers of Rose and Thorn restaurant, they were so supportive of each other, and the work environment was soothing. Never have I seen such a wonderful working environment. I also liked Kassi's Mother, Gina. She was integral in mending the MC's relationship. I liked how she saw the situation from both of their sides and she gave amazing advice.
📽👨🏼🍳
Now, our MCs, I liked Clay better(it might be because he's a chef). I just liked him. I also liked Kassi, she was a wonderful mother and very good in co-paarenting even though her ex was extremely annoying. As usual, the daughter, Samantha, was also a star in the book. I liked how the MCs were driven and determined to achieve their goals.
👨🏼🍳📽
Their relationship was very cute too and beautiful, I liked it! I also liked the miscommunication trope. I felt it was needed for both of them to re-discover themselves and let go of past traumas.
📽👨🏼🍳
This book was amazing and you should give it a try.
👨🏼🍳📽
#kitchenheat #mcfallandhays #kathleenmcfall #clarkhays #romance #netgalleyarc #netgalley #bookstagramnigeria #bookstagramafrica #nigerianbookstagrammer
AUTHOR: KATHLEEN MCFALL AND CLARK HAYS
PUB DATE: 02 NOVEMBER 2023
📽👨🏼🍳
REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
👨🏼🍳📽
My favorite part of this book is the workers of Rose and Thorn restaurant, they were so supportive of each other, and the work environment was soothing. Never have I seen such a wonderful working environment. I also liked Kassi's Mother, Gina. She was integral in mending the MC's relationship. I liked how she saw the situation from both of their sides and she gave amazing advice.
📽👨🏼🍳
Now, our MCs, I liked Clay better(it might be because he's a chef). I just liked him. I also liked Kassi, she was a wonderful mother and very good in co-paarenting even though her ex was extremely annoying. As usual, the daughter, Samantha, was also a star in the book. I liked how the MCs were driven and determined to achieve their goals.
👨🏼🍳📽
Their relationship was very cute too and beautiful, I liked it! I also liked the miscommunication trope. I felt it was needed for both of them to re-discover themselves and let go of past traumas.
📽👨🏼🍳
This book was amazing and you should give it a try.
👨🏼🍳📽
#kitchenheat #mcfallandhays #kathleenmcfall #clarkhays #romance #netgalleyarc #netgalley #bookstagramnigeria #bookstagramafrica #nigerianbookstagrammer
October 20, 2023
This book was really good, funny in 0laces, really made me laugh out loud, I loved the characters smd the romance, will definately be recommending this book to all my family and friends.
November 13, 2023
“There are no secrets in a restaurant…”
For those who have ever complained about the quality of food or service in a restaurant, this is a cautionary tale. After reading Kitchen Heat, I swear I’ll never disparage cooks, bartenders, or wait staff again! I was floored by the revelations at the Rose and Thorn restaurant, the iconic fictional setting for much of the novel’s action. So much drama, so much sexual tension…who knew?
Authors McFall and Hays worked for years in the food industry and thus have the bonafides to write deeply about it. Their plot is credible and coherent, and their diverse and beautifully written characters come alive and step right off the page. Who knows whether they’re based on actual people, autobiographical, or an eclectic composite of lovable oddballs encountered over the years, and who cares! These folks are as real as anyone you’d meet in the real world.
I found myself immediately rooting for the main character, Kassi, a budding screenwriter with a hot property that no one knows about yet. The novel is written as a flashback, as Kassi recalls the genesis of her first screenplay while dealing with life’s biggest challenges—a sweet and perceptive daughter who is growing up fast, a miserable cur of an estranged husband, and her burgeoning feelings for the handsome but damaged Clay. How could that not resonate with readers?
Kassi resists falling in love with big, beautiful Clay, the kindly head chef in the Rose and Thorn, who is licking his own emotional wounds from a previous marriage. Even more complicated is Kassi’s relationship with Barry, her estranged husband and father to their daughter Samantha. Barry is a twisted bastard, prone to destructive rages and mean tricks, but whom the naïve Samantha adores. If Clay embodies all that is good, Barry is pure evil on two legs.
Each chapter is prefaced by a clever scene description that serves as a sort of Greek chorus, reminiscent of the narrator in Wilder’s Our Town, foreshadowing the action to come and letting the audience in on secrets that only serve to build our anticipation. In this way the live action of the novel is skillfully comingled with Kassi’s screenplay as it develops. To the very end, one cannot be sure what is screenplay, narrative, or real life.
The cleverly crafted sex scenes are graphic and over-the-top steamy. Kassi and Clay are both reluctant lovers nursing past hurts and way out of practice. The scenes feel intentionally awkward but for that reason totally work. And apparently, there is something inordinately sexual about the walk-in cooler, and a certain typewriter. I laughed out loud at the description of lovemaking sounds from the next room as “the cat trying to throw up, or something wrong with the washing machine.”
It is always heartwarming to see references to one’s own hometown in a novel. Portland is the backdrop for this saucy tale, and the text is loaded with fun references to the Rose City: the Alibi Lounge, Blazers basketball, Keller Auditorium, Dante’s, Cinema 21, the Heathman Hotel, not to mention smoke-filled bars of the 90s, filled with actual smoke! Ah, those were the days.
I thoroughly enjoyed Kitchen Heat and strongly recommend it. McFall and Hays have done it again! They have opened the door to explore a new genre and have come away triumphant. I hope they plan a series. These characters are simply too engrossing to let get away.
For those who have ever complained about the quality of food or service in a restaurant, this is a cautionary tale. After reading Kitchen Heat, I swear I’ll never disparage cooks, bartenders, or wait staff again! I was floored by the revelations at the Rose and Thorn restaurant, the iconic fictional setting for much of the novel’s action. So much drama, so much sexual tension…who knew?
Authors McFall and Hays worked for years in the food industry and thus have the bonafides to write deeply about it. Their plot is credible and coherent, and their diverse and beautifully written characters come alive and step right off the page. Who knows whether they’re based on actual people, autobiographical, or an eclectic composite of lovable oddballs encountered over the years, and who cares! These folks are as real as anyone you’d meet in the real world.
I found myself immediately rooting for the main character, Kassi, a budding screenwriter with a hot property that no one knows about yet. The novel is written as a flashback, as Kassi recalls the genesis of her first screenplay while dealing with life’s biggest challenges—a sweet and perceptive daughter who is growing up fast, a miserable cur of an estranged husband, and her burgeoning feelings for the handsome but damaged Clay. How could that not resonate with readers?
Kassi resists falling in love with big, beautiful Clay, the kindly head chef in the Rose and Thorn, who is licking his own emotional wounds from a previous marriage. Even more complicated is Kassi’s relationship with Barry, her estranged husband and father to their daughter Samantha. Barry is a twisted bastard, prone to destructive rages and mean tricks, but whom the naïve Samantha adores. If Clay embodies all that is good, Barry is pure evil on two legs.
Each chapter is prefaced by a clever scene description that serves as a sort of Greek chorus, reminiscent of the narrator in Wilder’s Our Town, foreshadowing the action to come and letting the audience in on secrets that only serve to build our anticipation. In this way the live action of the novel is skillfully comingled with Kassi’s screenplay as it develops. To the very end, one cannot be sure what is screenplay, narrative, or real life.
The cleverly crafted sex scenes are graphic and over-the-top steamy. Kassi and Clay are both reluctant lovers nursing past hurts and way out of practice. The scenes feel intentionally awkward but for that reason totally work. And apparently, there is something inordinately sexual about the walk-in cooler, and a certain typewriter. I laughed out loud at the description of lovemaking sounds from the next room as “the cat trying to throw up, or something wrong with the washing machine.”
It is always heartwarming to see references to one’s own hometown in a novel. Portland is the backdrop for this saucy tale, and the text is loaded with fun references to the Rose City: the Alibi Lounge, Blazers basketball, Keller Auditorium, Dante’s, Cinema 21, the Heathman Hotel, not to mention smoke-filled bars of the 90s, filled with actual smoke! Ah, those were the days.
I thoroughly enjoyed Kitchen Heat and strongly recommend it. McFall and Hays have done it again! They have opened the door to explore a new genre and have come away triumphant. I hope they plan a series. These characters are simply too engrossing to let get away.
December 12, 2023
I don't think I have rated any romance book 5 stars this year but I just couldn't help with this one. Kitchen Heat was such a refreshing book in regards to the single mom trope. I absolutely loved how it gave a realistic outlook on a single mother's life and didn't glaze over the serious parts or trivialize them just for the sake of romance. Another thing I loved was the twofold portrayal of Kassi's life, giving justice to both her roles as a single mother and a love interest. The setup of a special restaurant in the 90's was amazing as well with all the lovable side characters with their own quirks and backstories. It added extra charm to the book. I'm so happy I got a chance to read this book. I can say, without a doubt, that it's the best romance book I have read in 2023 so far. Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an e-ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 14, 2023
I enjoyed this so much!! Kassi is such a good character, and I was rooting for her from the very beginning. I also loved Clay, and his surly attitude. I really liked how everything was set mostly in the restaurant behind the scenes, there’s so much to the dynamic of a restaurant family, and it was fun to watch how even the side characters changed over time. Sam is the absolute best, I loved how accurate she was to a typical kid asking questions at awkward moments and calling grown ups out for swearing! Super fun read, definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, Pumpjack Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and Members' Titles for the digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Pumpjack Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and Members' Titles for the digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 6, 2023
Check out this new fun and flirty romance story. Kitchen staff drama, broken dreams, a bit of Portland lore...an enjoyable and fast paced read. Despite my stomach yearning for a Chef Clay brunch special, my heart was left full of hope for Kassi and Samantha's fresh start with a colorful cast of new friends and a new love blooming in the Rose City.
November 3, 2023
I like books set in the 90s and culinary romances so I was curious about this one. It totally reminded me of a 90s romcom. It was written in a movie script-like way which was kind of unique. I really liked how diverse the characters were. Kassie and Clay connected instantly and I liked how they grew into more over the time they spent together. Though, the ending could have been a bit different, I wanted something besides the ending of the script.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
October 30, 2023
I adore this cover. It is perfect for the setting of the book. I just loved that it was set in the 90's. It made my heart happy. I laughed a good bit in this one, I thought the romance was so good and loved the spice. Clay was such a cinnamon roll and I just ate him up! Kassi was such a strong female character. She did whatever it took to take care of her daughter while also still following her dreams. I am such a big fan of found family and just loved their family at the restaurant. I cannot wait to read more by these authors. Thank you to NetGalley and Pumpjack Press for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
November 21, 2023
3* A nice romance, I didn't love the fact that is written as a script with a scene description and summary at the beginning of every chapter.
Kassi just moved to Portland to let her baby be near her father. She gets to work in a restaurant as a waiter while trying to get her chance as a screenplay writer.
Most of the story evolves around the working life in said restaurant, The rose and thorn a safe environment for people trying to get a new chance in life.
There she meets Clay the cheft leading the kitchen and there's a spark from the beginning, but both are nursing their own heartbreak and trust issues, will they be able to get through them and be happy?
While the employees add a nice touch, with drama and fun, I have to say I didn't liked Kassi very much during the developing of the story: I get the fact that she's focused on her daughter and that she has to get through the month, but she comes out not truly true to herself, she wants to make it on her own, but in the end she gets enormous help from the one around her, and I didn't feel like she always got them the right credit.
The romance is pretty intense, still slowly simmering between Kassi and Clay.
What I liked are the numerous reference to life set in the pre-internet 1990s before cells, social media and streaming, it made me connect with my childwood, but I'm not sure younger reader would get them.
In the end it was fun and emotional, but it didn't made me fall in love with it.
Thank you NetGalley and Pumpjack Press for providing this book as an Arc in exchange of an honest review,
Kassi just moved to Portland to let her baby be near her father. She gets to work in a restaurant as a waiter while trying to get her chance as a screenplay writer.
Most of the story evolves around the working life in said restaurant, The rose and thorn a safe environment for people trying to get a new chance in life.
There she meets Clay the cheft leading the kitchen and there's a spark from the beginning, but both are nursing their own heartbreak and trust issues, will they be able to get through them and be happy?
While the employees add a nice touch, with drama and fun, I have to say I didn't liked Kassi very much during the developing of the story: I get the fact that she's focused on her daughter and that she has to get through the month, but she comes out not truly true to herself, she wants to make it on her own, but in the end she gets enormous help from the one around her, and I didn't feel like she always got them the right credit.
The romance is pretty intense, still slowly simmering between Kassi and Clay.
What I liked are the numerous reference to life set in the pre-internet 1990s before cells, social media and streaming, it made me connect with my childwood, but I'm not sure younger reader would get them.
In the end it was fun and emotional, but it didn't made me fall in love with it.
Thank you NetGalley and Pumpjack Press for providing this book as an Arc in exchange of an honest review,
December 18, 2024
Kitchen Heat by McFall & Hays is a deliciously steamy romance set against the high-stakes world of restaurant kitchens. The chemistry between the protagonists sizzles as they navigate professional rivalries, personal ambitions, and undeniable attraction. The authors vividly capture the chaos and passion of the culinary world, making it a perfect backdrop for this love story.
While the pacing is mainly engaging, a few plot points felt underdeveloped, leaving readers wanting more depth in certain areas. Still, the witty dialogue and heartwarming romance make this a satisfying read. A must for fans of food and fiery love stories!
While the pacing is mainly engaging, a few plot points felt underdeveloped, leaving readers wanting more depth in certain areas. Still, the witty dialogue and heartwarming romance make this a satisfying read. A must for fans of food and fiery love stories!
November 12, 2023
Tropes in this book.
✨ Friends to lovers
✨ Slow burn
✨ Little bit of spice
✨ Single mom
✨ Set in the 90s
What attracted me to this book is the restaurant and the nineties vibes.
I’m a huge foodie and romance lover, so I was immediately sold when I read the blurb of the book.
After finishing the book though, I do have some difficulties rating this book.
I loved the fact that it was written with some script aspects. At the beginning of each chapter, there was a few lines that set the scenes. I LOVED that! I’ve never seen this elsewhere and I quite enjoyed the little hints there were to what would happen in the book (it never ruined the surprise of how the story would unfold, which is a big plus).
Unfortunately, the story couldn’t keep my attention locked until the end of the book. I loved the first half so much and then I had to almost force myself to keep reading. I’m not sure what happened. Maybe I just wasn’t in the romance mood anymore? Or maybe it’s because I lost my attachment to the main couple along the way? Because that unfortunately happened too.
Once we got near the ending of the book, I started to dislike Clay… he did some things I just couldn’t wrap my mind around (he felt a bit like a drama queen 😅). It just was not my preferred way of how the story could have unfolded., to be honest.
I think I will still continue this series once the next books come out. Because the side characters and the way the book as written, was still quite fun!
So if you’re looking for a friends to lovers story, this one is for sure recommended! 💜
(Received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)
✨ Friends to lovers
✨ Slow burn
✨ Little bit of spice
✨ Single mom
✨ Set in the 90s
What attracted me to this book is the restaurant and the nineties vibes.
I’m a huge foodie and romance lover, so I was immediately sold when I read the blurb of the book.
After finishing the book though, I do have some difficulties rating this book.
I loved the fact that it was written with some script aspects. At the beginning of each chapter, there was a few lines that set the scenes. I LOVED that! I’ve never seen this elsewhere and I quite enjoyed the little hints there were to what would happen in the book (it never ruined the surprise of how the story would unfold, which is a big plus).
Unfortunately, the story couldn’t keep my attention locked until the end of the book. I loved the first half so much and then I had to almost force myself to keep reading. I’m not sure what happened. Maybe I just wasn’t in the romance mood anymore? Or maybe it’s because I lost my attachment to the main couple along the way? Because that unfortunately happened too.
Once we got near the ending of the book, I started to dislike Clay… he did some things I just couldn’t wrap my mind around (he felt a bit like a drama queen 😅). It just was not my preferred way of how the story could have unfolded., to be honest.
I think I will still continue this series once the next books come out. Because the side characters and the way the book as written, was still quite fun!
So if you’re looking for a friends to lovers story, this one is for sure recommended! 💜
(Received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)
November 25, 2023
I enjoyed this book a lot. The romance was very well done. I loved the cooking theme throughout the book. The writing was very good also. Would highly recommend!
November 17, 2023
Really good feel good story about Kassi, a single Mum/wannabe screen writer who falls for Clay, a hot chef working at the restaurant where she is a waitress. I enjoyed the time setting- 1995 - the era of no mobiles and renting videos & the characterisation of both Kassi and Clay whose past relationships have damaged them both somewhat. The story jumps a little but it doesn't detract - thanks to Net Galley for the advanced copy.
November 14, 2023
Such an interesting book! I loved the writers concept - writing a screenplay based on working at a restaurant.
The characters are so well crafted and interesting. Kassi is a great main character and Clay was a perfect match for her. A bit of a slow burn romance, with some awesome side characters helping them along the way. The kitchen setting was fun and interesting as well. Just an enjoyable story!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
The characters are so well crafted and interesting. Kassi is a great main character and Clay was a perfect match for her. A bit of a slow burn romance, with some awesome side characters helping them along the way. The kitchen setting was fun and interesting as well. Just an enjoyable story!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
November 2, 2023
Single mom Kassi meets heartbroken Clay. Kassi knows she has to many responsibilities to even imagine start a relationship with her coworker, however both have this instant connection and the more time they spend together it becomes harder to fight these feelings.
I love the setting is in the 90s, I was a kid then so it's cool to see how the lack of modern technology affected the story! Kassi and Clay have deep issues from their previous relationships. I wish we had seen more on how they actually work on their issues so their relationship success.
Crystal is Clay's ex an she is not a good person so how she helped at the end was so out of character and random I did not like it specially because in the parts where she was mention the focus was in her bad behavior!
The book as a whole was a nice read, the interactions in the kitchen were funny and made you like how all the characters interact with each other.
I love the setting is in the 90s, I was a kid then so it's cool to see how the lack of modern technology affected the story! Kassi and Clay have deep issues from their previous relationships. I wish we had seen more on how they actually work on their issues so their relationship success.
Crystal is Clay's ex an she is not a good person so how she helped at the end was so out of character and random I did not like it specially because in the parts where she was mention the focus was in her bad behavior!
The book as a whole was a nice read, the interactions in the kitchen were funny and made you like how all the characters interact with each other.
December 17, 2023
Page turner!! Absolutely loved the book. Can’t wait to read the next one in the series. Well written, creative and sexy!!!
October 31, 2023
This book was awesome, the characters were funny, I loved the setting of the book, where Kassi is being interviewed because her movie is coming out, and how it all started when she was freshly single, with a kid and working at this very eccentric restaurant. The owner of this restaurant hires people from all walks of life who need a second chance, whether it’s with a new job, or a safe place to be, it’s amazing, the people in this book were too funny, and some were really relatable.
Loved the romance shared between Clay and Kassi, it took long enough when it started I couldn’t get enough. I adored clay and Kassi’s daughter Sam. The support of the community was highlighted in this book, from Clay being supportive, to the owner of the restaurant and the people that work there, even the customers, aside from the amazing romance, it was so heartfelt. Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Loved the romance shared between Clay and Kassi, it took long enough when it started I couldn’t get enough. I adored clay and Kassi’s daughter Sam. The support of the community was highlighted in this book, from Clay being supportive, to the owner of the restaurant and the people that work there, even the customers, aside from the amazing romance, it was so heartfelt. Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
November 4, 2023
5/5 Stars ⭐️
ARC Review
This book was amazing!! I love how the chapters were formatted like a screen play and it really made the book come to life even more! I loved watching Clay and Kassi overcome their struggles and watch them both grow! This is a slow burn book but I loved every single minute of it!
ARC Review
This book was amazing!! I love how the chapters were formatted like a screen play and it really made the book come to life even more! I loved watching Clay and Kassi overcome their struggles and watch them both grow! This is a slow burn book but I loved every single minute of it!
November 4, 2023
5/5 Stars ⭐️
ARC Review
This book was amazing!! I love how the chapters were formatted like a screen play and it really made the book come to life even more! I loved watching Clay and Kassi overcome their struggles and watch them both grow! This is a slow burn book but I loved every single minute of it!
ARC Review
This book was amazing!! I love how the chapters were formatted like a screen play and it really made the book come to life even more! I loved watching Clay and Kassi overcome their struggles and watch them both grow! This is a slow burn book but I loved every single minute of it!
October 23, 2023
3.75🌟
TW: domestic violence/abuse in book.
This is one of those slow burn romances that has you wishing both of the characters will just get together, and soon! It makes the feelings abundantly clear and really builds the story between the 2 main characters.
It is a single character perspective, which allows you to follow Kassi through her story and feel her pain with her ex-husband and her growing feelings for Clay. All the characters are inherently likeable (other than the ex-husband really) and I just wanted her to stand up for herself and fight her corner.
I found the perspective of it being partially written as a screenplay, in terms of it being broken down into different scenes and telling you the location and contents of that scene, an interesting addition to support the storytelling aspect and to build the authenticity. It's not something I've seen before but it was still easy to read and I actually quite liked the refreshing approach
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
TW: domestic violence/abuse in book.
This is one of those slow burn romances that has you wishing both of the characters will just get together, and soon! It makes the feelings abundantly clear and really builds the story between the 2 main characters.
It is a single character perspective, which allows you to follow Kassi through her story and feel her pain with her ex-husband and her growing feelings for Clay. All the characters are inherently likeable (other than the ex-husband really) and I just wanted her to stand up for herself and fight her corner.
I found the perspective of it being partially written as a screenplay, in terms of it being broken down into different scenes and telling you the location and contents of that scene, an interesting addition to support the storytelling aspect and to build the authenticity. It's not something I've seen before but it was still easy to read and I actually quite liked the refreshing approach
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
October 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! Great characters, great plot, and kept me entertained! The romance was just right and had me feeling like I was in the story and rooting for them!
January 25, 2024
McFall and Hays never fail to surprise me with the breadth of genres they can write in - be it sci-fi, alternative history, vampire western/paranormal romance...and now, straight up romantic comedy.
If you like these tropes
*slow-burn romance
*friends-to-lovers
*miscommunication
then Kitchen Heat is for you.
Each chapter starts of like a script, with the scene location and description. As it's told in third person from alternating viewpoints of our MC Kassi and her love interest, Clay, it does give it the feel of a script - which is the perfect concept for a story about a struggling single-mom writer who is working on a script based on her own experiences at a restaurant.
Kassi and Clay both have trust issues - both were deeply hurt by their exes (in different ways) - Kassi had an explosive, verbally abusive ex and Clay was cheated on. Despite seeing sparks fly from their first meeting, their relationship IS a slow burn. Kassie also has her daughter Samantha to protect. Kassi is really struggling to get by and doesn't want to ask for help, but there are plenty of people around willing to shore her up.
The story is set in the '90s, which I loved for so many reasons (and not because I'm old.) The longing for a used typewriter to write her screenplay, the use of COPIOUS amounts of white out to correct the draft (along with retyping entire pages because fixing one page meant it didn't end in the same place so you had to retype the next), the obvious lack of cell phones - yes, that took me back.
It has a great cast of supporting characters at the restaurant. The kitchen banter was hilarious while also showing the struggles restaurant workers can face (relationships, substance abuse.) Crystal and Barry were perfectly written to hate on - especially Barry, who was perfectly horrible and hate-able. (Confession: when I read that his child support was only $100/month, I thought it was a typo and it BOTHERED me, until I remembered that it was set in the '90s. My bad!)
The pace in the third quarter of the book slowed a bit, but picked up at the finish. I will admit, miscommunication tropes make me want to scream - so much angst and frustration could be cleared up with ONE phone call or heart-to-heart conversation. I would have liked to get a more developed picture of Clay, aside from hearing he was "Brad Pitt-like" with long hair in tight running pants.
That said - a good twist (despite the spoiler of the first scene) and a come to Jesus moment with Clay gave me the happy ever after I wanted.
A great setting, a fun structure, witty banter, and two interesting MC who are clearly meant for each other (and gave us just a little spice - did I mention there was spice?) made for an easy, fun read. Looking forward to seeing what else this writing duo brings us in their Restaurantland series!
If you like these tropes
*slow-burn romance
*friends-to-lovers
*miscommunication
then Kitchen Heat is for you.
Each chapter starts of like a script, with the scene location and description. As it's told in third person from alternating viewpoints of our MC Kassi and her love interest, Clay, it does give it the feel of a script - which is the perfect concept for a story about a struggling single-mom writer who is working on a script based on her own experiences at a restaurant.
Kassi and Clay both have trust issues - both were deeply hurt by their exes (in different ways) - Kassi had an explosive, verbally abusive ex and Clay was cheated on. Despite seeing sparks fly from their first meeting, their relationship IS a slow burn. Kassie also has her daughter Samantha to protect. Kassi is really struggling to get by and doesn't want to ask for help, but there are plenty of people around willing to shore her up.
The story is set in the '90s, which I loved for so many reasons (and not because I'm old.) The longing for a used typewriter to write her screenplay, the use of COPIOUS amounts of white out to correct the draft (along with retyping entire pages because fixing one page meant it didn't end in the same place so you had to retype the next), the obvious lack of cell phones - yes, that took me back.
It has a great cast of supporting characters at the restaurant. The kitchen banter was hilarious while also showing the struggles restaurant workers can face (relationships, substance abuse.) Crystal and Barry were perfectly written to hate on - especially Barry, who was perfectly horrible and hate-able. (Confession: when I read that his child support was only $100/month, I thought it was a typo and it BOTHERED me, until I remembered that it was set in the '90s. My bad!)
The pace in the third quarter of the book slowed a bit, but picked up at the finish. I will admit, miscommunication tropes make me want to scream - so much angst and frustration could be cleared up with ONE phone call or heart-to-heart conversation. I would have liked to get a more developed picture of Clay, aside from hearing he was "Brad Pitt-like" with long hair in tight running pants.
That said - a good twist (despite the spoiler of the first scene) and a come to Jesus moment with Clay gave me the happy ever after I wanted.
A great setting, a fun structure, witty banter, and two interesting MC who are clearly meant for each other (and gave us just a little spice - did I mention there was spice?) made for an easy, fun read. Looking forward to seeing what else this writing duo brings us in their Restaurantland series!
February 11, 2024
Delightful, delicious, and heartwarming – contemporary romance at its finest.
Kitchen Heat, the first novel in a new contemporary romance series by writing partners Kathleen McFall and Clark Hays, is delightfully delicious and as heartwarming a love story as they come. With two damaged-by-their-past-relationships main protagonists and a wonderfully fun and sometimes freaky group of supporting characters, this modern take on a second chance at happiness brings all the right emotions to the table.
Kassi, a budding screenwriter who is supporting herself and her young daughter by waiting tables, is ending her marriage to her abusive husband, Barry. Clay is the head chef where Kassi works. They are drawn to each other from their first meeting, but both struggle with the damage inflicted on their hearts and minds from their past relationships. They are cautious, even leery, of acting upon their attraction. The authors give both his and her points of view on their past and present experiences, including the trepidation they feel about putting themselves at risk of getting hurt again. Their voices feel authentic, as do the thoughts and emotions they express, and while the male/female perspectives have some differences, they are more alike than one might have expected. The pair is perfect together, and I liked how they form a united front, respecting the difficulties Kassi’s daughter, Sam, may have adjusting to a strange new man in their lives. However, this child is innocently more aware of what’s going on than the adults around her give her credit for.I loved the restaurant setting and the staff, with all their quirks, various life situations and struggles, and the “found family” dynamic. I’d like to believe this fictional depiction of their camaraderie and connection reflects reality somewhat for all the hard-working restaurant workers out there. I also enjoyed Kassi’s screenwriting journey: her hard work, creativity, and the ups and downs of the contest. The script-like headings at the start of each chapter were a fun bonus.
The tale is well-paced, with drama, comedy, romance, and some frank but nicely done adult situations, all having featured roles. I laughed out loud at points; the dialogue was fabulous, and I teared up with emotion at others. This story touched on all my feelings.I recommend KITCHEN HEAT to readers of contemporary romance.
February 11, 2024
Every once in a while, a book comes along that subverts your expectations and tips the genre on its head. that book for me is Kathleen McFall's Kitchen Heat.
Staring a colorful cast of unique characters, Kitchen Heat is written in part like a play, focusing heavily on dialogue the characters use to tell their story. We begin at the end, with Kassi sharing the story of the inspiration behind her Hollywood movie script with a journalist. For single mom Kassi, her rise to writerly stardom has played out like a fairy tale. She was a nobody from nowhere, who dragged her daughter across America in search of a new start. To pave the way, she got a job at a Portland restaurant, the Rose and Thorn. It's here that Kassi not only finds an unexpected love with the sexy cook, Clay but also finds a family of fellow misfits and outcasts.
This is a story for anyone who never quite fit in with the crowd, a safe space for "undesirables" of the mid-90s. While you're often reminded of the play-like setting through fun script intros at the beginning of each chapter, the characters feel like friends you haven't met yet. They reminded me of the friends I had in my early 20s, all of us misfits of a different sort, and richer from knowing one another. But don't take my word for it, read Kitchen Heat and enjoy this brilliant story for yourself!
Staring a colorful cast of unique characters, Kitchen Heat is written in part like a play, focusing heavily on dialogue the characters use to tell their story. We begin at the end, with Kassi sharing the story of the inspiration behind her Hollywood movie script with a journalist. For single mom Kassi, her rise to writerly stardom has played out like a fairy tale. She was a nobody from nowhere, who dragged her daughter across America in search of a new start. To pave the way, she got a job at a Portland restaurant, the Rose and Thorn. It's here that Kassi not only finds an unexpected love with the sexy cook, Clay but also finds a family of fellow misfits and outcasts.
This is a story for anyone who never quite fit in with the crowd, a safe space for "undesirables" of the mid-90s. While you're often reminded of the play-like setting through fun script intros at the beginning of each chapter, the characters feel like friends you haven't met yet. They reminded me of the friends I had in my early 20s, all of us misfits of a different sort, and richer from knowing one another. But don't take my word for it, read Kitchen Heat and enjoy this brilliant story for yourself!
February 6, 2024
Kitchen Heat follows a waitress and a chef who have lingering pain from past relationships. Kassi uprooted herself and moved to Portland to co-parent with the husband she's now separated from. Clay gave his all in a relationship in which his trust was broken.
This one has some spice; things do heat up. I liked the dynamic between Kassi, Clay, and her daughter Sam. The story takes place in Portland, Oregon in the 90s. It has several distinct and unique side characters from all walks with their own struggles and pains.
This book excels in providing a quirky adult cast and making sure readers can see the way they're each struggling with their own issues outside of the restaurant they work in. I also like that this one wasn't just a fluffy romance. It was grounded in some pain and heartbreak, making it a story where you aren't rooting just for a couple, but also healing for both main characters.
This one has some spice; things do heat up. I liked the dynamic between Kassi, Clay, and her daughter Sam. The story takes place in Portland, Oregon in the 90s. It has several distinct and unique side characters from all walks with their own struggles and pains.
This book excels in providing a quirky adult cast and making sure readers can see the way they're each struggling with their own issues outside of the restaurant they work in. I also like that this one wasn't just a fluffy romance. It was grounded in some pain and heartbreak, making it a story where you aren't rooting just for a couple, but also healing for both main characters.
February 10, 2024
"Trust me, you aren't out of my league, you are in a league of yor own, Kassi said."
Kitchen Heat is an absolute delight to read. This book gives you all of the feels and all of the restaurant vibes.
I loved the plot and how Kassi handled different situations.
The slow burn is perfect, and the cast of characters are a mix of serious, joking, broken characters but they all look out for each other. The employees at Rose and Thorn are like family, I already miss them.
What made me giddy with excitement while reading was seeing a character's nickname 'Roz', which is, in fact, my nickname too.
Overall, this book deals with love, healing from betrayal, the hardships of co-parenting, but also not giving up on your dreams. Kassi is a great character and I loved her from the start.
I highly recommend reading Kitchen Heat, and for the movie buffs out there, there are mentions of movies too 😉
🍳 90s setting
🍳 Slow burn
🍳 Making your dreams come true
🍳 Single mom
🍳 Found family
Many thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kitchen Heat is an absolute delight to read. This book gives you all of the feels and all of the restaurant vibes.
I loved the plot and how Kassi handled different situations.
The slow burn is perfect, and the cast of characters are a mix of serious, joking, broken characters but they all look out for each other. The employees at Rose and Thorn are like family, I already miss them.
What made me giddy with excitement while reading was seeing a character's nickname 'Roz', which is, in fact, my nickname too.
Overall, this book deals with love, healing from betrayal, the hardships of co-parenting, but also not giving up on your dreams. Kassi is a great character and I loved her from the start.
I highly recommend reading Kitchen Heat, and for the movie buffs out there, there are mentions of movies too 😉
🍳 90s setting
🍳 Slow burn
🍳 Making your dreams come true
🍳 Single mom
🍳 Found family
Many thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2024
An easy, enjoyable read
I enjoyed this story. It was an easy read. Kassi and Clay are fantastic main characters. They're relatable and likable, easy to root for. They have great chemistry and their kissing and love scenes were fire. I actually want more especially after they declared their love for the first time.
The diverse support characters are great as well. I enjoyed the camaraderie among the staff of the restaurant. Some of the best dialogues came from the interactions set there.
I like that the angst is balanced by humor. And I really like that it's a proper romance. Parts of it remind me of Lifetime and Hallmark movies.
The mid-‘90s setting is a hit for me since I lived through that era and can recognize all the pop culture references.
I find it impressive that two authors wrote this story. It's so seamless.
I enjoyed this story. It was an easy read. Kassi and Clay are fantastic main characters. They're relatable and likable, easy to root for. They have great chemistry and their kissing and love scenes were fire. I actually want more especially after they declared their love for the first time.
The diverse support characters are great as well. I enjoyed the camaraderie among the staff of the restaurant. Some of the best dialogues came from the interactions set there.
I like that the angst is balanced by humor. And I really like that it's a proper romance. Parts of it remind me of Lifetime and Hallmark movies.
The mid-‘90s setting is a hit for me since I lived through that era and can recognize all the pop culture references.
I find it impressive that two authors wrote this story. It's so seamless.
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