A Taste of Temptation

A Recipe for Love #1

by Kelly Collins

She’s a woman who values honesty. He’s a man telling a lie. Will the truth bring them together or tear them apart?

Danielle Morgan doesn’t need a recipe for love, she needs one for life. Hounded by her best friend to find a man or a hobby, she chooses the latter. After all, a hobby won’t break her heart. Perusing the aisles of a flea market, she purchases a box of books with one that promises to unlock what her heart desires. Right now, all she wants is to keep her job and stay ahead of her mounting debt. That is until she meets James, the hot new construction lead at Luxe resorts. Dating a coworker is against her rules, but James is a temptation she can’t resist.

After a failed attempt at marriage, James Parks is happily wedded to his career as CEO of Luxe Resorts. His job doesn’t complain when he gets home late, and it’ll never take half of everything. Working undercover as the construction lead is his only passion until he meets Danielle Morgan. The last person he should date is a woman who works for his company. But like a decadent dessert, the more he tries to resist, the more he wants her. Will finding out his true identity sweeten the deal or leave a bad taste in her mouth?

Do they have the right ingredients to create something magical or are they a recipe for disaster?

Find out in A Tablespoon of Temptation…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

282 pages, Paperback

Published January 6, 2020

About the author

Kelly Collins is a bestselling, award-winning author of feel-good small-town romance filled with heart, heat, and happily-ever-afters. Her books are perfect for readers who crave heartwarming contemporary love stories, sassy heroines, and slow-burn romances with cinnamon roll heroes you’ll wish were real.

With humor, charm, and emotional depth, Kelly brings to life tight-knit towns, unforgettable characters, and the kind of love that feels like coming home. When she’s not plotting her next happily-ever-after, she’s sipping strong coffee and dreaming up heroes who are tough on the outside and gooey in the middle.

Come for the charm, stay for the swoon—and don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the whole town.

Visit www.authorkellycollins.com to grab a free book and discover your next favorite escape.

Click “Follow” to get updates on new releases, special deals, and exclusive content.

You can learn more about Kelly at www.authorkellycollins.com.

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Reviews

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to tell you I discovered this author over the last twelve months. A book from her Aspen Cove series had been waiting on my TBR for me to read, and one day I decided to read something from that never ending list. Well, I was so happy after I read it. In fact, it led me to purchase several more of Kelly's books. When I came across this book while browsing NetGalley, I knew I had to read it. A Tablespoon of Temptation was amazing. For a lack of a better adjective at the moment, I was impressed. This book had everything I look for in a romance. Character development is important. While this book doesn't have a broad timeline, I felt the characters developed nicely. Both James and Danielle were burned by romance before. And while they each did not swear off love, they certainly weren't seeking it out. Regardless, love found them anyway. Thanks to a wonderful cast of secondary characters, I was doubly immersed in the story. Engaged is an understatement. I loved this book!

The blurb does a good job in giving you a look into what the premise of the story it so I'm not going to ruin your reading experience by giving spoilers. I can tell you that from the first chapters, I knew this was going to be a five star read for me. There were quite a few elements involved in making this more than just a love story. There are secrets, humor, some angst and even a bit of whimsy.
And the end tied up perfectly, everyone getting what they deserve ;)

I definitely recommend this book to all lovers of romance and a feel good story with some complexity and a lot of heart! In fact, I recommend you add this author to your TBR. You won't be disappointed.

This is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)

[Athena D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS

This was the first book I’ve read by Kelly Collins and I loved it! It was filled with heartwarming, funny moments and wonderful characters that will tug on your heartstrings . I connected with strength of Dani’s character despite her circumstances and James was a deliciously sweet addition. A Tablespoon Of Temptation by Kelly Collins is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle Morgan is a now-single woman who values honesty, especially after her disastrous marriage, so right from the start she and James Parks are off to a potentially shaky start. Danielle is focused on doing her job and trying to stay ahead of her mounting debts. She has no time for dating and risking her heart again, only to have it broken.

James is the CEO of Luxe Resorts. After his bad marriage, he is quite happy putting all his energies into his career. What he enjoys most is working undercover as the construction lead on the Luxe Resorts project, and then he meets Danielle who works for his company! Although it’s not a good idea to date a co-worker – especially one who is actually your employee – will he attempt to start a serious relationship with Danielle? And what will happen when she finds out he was not honest with his real identity up front (even though she herself neglected to ask any pertinent questions)?

This was a well-written story, and the author does a wonderful job in bringing out the emotions of the characters which pull the reader into the story line. There is so much more here, so grab a copy and see how this all plays out and how important friends are in your life!

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read. Danielle works for a resort in a small town near Denver, and the resort is bought out by Luxe resorts. The new owners are a brother, sister, and their best friend. I felt like Danielle was taken advantage of by some of her co workers, especially the old general manager. Danielle is such a nice person and takes an interest in everyone. Unfortunately she had married Chris who works at the resort, but ended up divorcing him. He is such a jerk that I can’t understand how she didn’t see it before she had married him. Of course everyone is worried about their jobs. The new owners are fair and want the best resort possible. James is the CEO, but concentrates on the construction as architect is his speciality. He doesn’t go in to the resort letting anyone know he is more than a site manager. He is attracted to Danielle, but she has no idea who he really is. This is always a recipe for trouble. James’ sister loves him and wants him to be happy as he also chose a real loser for a wife and has been divorced for awhile. I loved the interaction between the owners. Danielle’s baking skills are a hoot as well as her best friend and the things that come out of her mouth. I could feel the emotions that Danielle and James went through getting to know each other. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Jacqueline Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received book as a ARC for honest review.I loved it very much.It was enjoyable.I loved the Characters.Great story line.I want me a James.I think you will love James and Danielle story

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both James and Danielle have been married and divorced, as the result of cheating spouses who were using them for their money. Danielle’s ex left her in a financial hole she is still trying escape, and to make matters worse, she has to see him at work because they both work at the same resort. His ex left James with a bitter after taste, but made little impact on his wealth. James, his sister, and friend now own the resort and are implementing changes and renovations to make it more profitable. While his two partners like to be front and centre, James prefers to take a more hands on, but rather incognito approach. He becomes physically involved with the renovations and enjoys the hard labour while observing the resort staff and taking notice of how the resort is being run. He and his partners notice Danielle right away, and observe her dedication to her job, her fellow employees and the resorts clientele. When the decision is made to make her the new managing director of the resort, Danielle is stunned and grateful, while her ex is resentful and determined to undermine her in her new job. It doesn’t take long for James and Danielle to form a connection as the renovations for the offices get under way. He feeds her addiction to overly sweetened coffee, and she gifts him with her smile and tells him more about the resort and employees. Their coffee connection slowly grows into something deeper than just physical attraction and friendship. Neither wants a repeat of their pasts, so they start out slow but their desire for each other quickly becomes ablaze. Their relationship is put in jeopardy when Danielle misinterprets an embrace between James and his sister, and he is forced to reveal his true identity. Since they had discussed the importance of trust in a couple’s relationship before they had become intimate, Danielle is stunned and devastated by his revelation. His sister persuades her to stay rather to resign her job, but Danielle keeps James at a distance. Can James win back the woman he has come to love, or has his deception ruined any chance for a future with her?

The characters in this book have real depth. They have quirks, troubles and flaws that make them more relatable and true to life. You can’t help but admire Danielle for her dedication to her work, to her friends and her determination to keep moving forward after life with her ex. It is hard not to want to kick James for not coming clean to Danielle when they discussed trust and it’s importance in a couple’s relationship. He was the one to bring up trust in the first place, but was reluctant to give it, and he is stunned when she tells him that she doesn’t trust him anymore. The secondary characters are just as vivid and real as the two main characters. Danielle’s insatiable newlywed friend, Trish, is hilarious and so supportive of her love life deprived friend. Chris, Danielle’s ex, is an arrogant, smarmy character you want to see bad karma demolish. This book engages and captivates the reader from the first page to last, delivering a story that evokes anger, sympathy, smiles, and outright giggles (Trish and her antics).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Krisz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first book of Kelly Collins's new series was entertaining to read.
I loved both the story and the main characters. Danielle was such a kind hardworking young woman. I loved that she always had some nice words to everyone. James was a great guy. He worked hard too and the construction side of the luxury resort business was where he belonged in his heart. I loved them as individuals and also as a couple.
I loved the storytelling. When I'm in a mood for small town romance Kelly Collins is my go-to author for sure.
A Tablespoon of Temptation was a fun, quick read. I can't wait for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacy K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this! You have Danielle who's been betrayed in the past and doesn't trust easily. You have a billionaire (James) who also has a past with a woman. The sex scenes don't come til a bit later. I enjoyed Danielle's best friend, she was a good supporting character for her and she was hilarious. We don't see Danielle/James getting married/or see a proposal but I think it ended well.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great storyline! Hard to put down! Intense and Emotional! Hot Chemistry! I truly enjoyed this read! Get it and Read it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Medavis66 · Rating 5 out of 5]

James is one of the new owners of the resort, but he's also the CEO and architect of all of their properties. As such, he often plays 'Undercover Boss' and does much of the work behind the scenes. Danielle is the head of her department before the takeover. She is also the recipient of daily coffee from the hot construction guy she thinks James is. He just wants to stay in the shadows a while longer and ensure that she would still love him if he were really just a construction guy. His sister warns him about the dangerous game he's playing and attempts to encourage him to come clean sooner than later. In the meantime is Danielle's new hobby of baking (forcibly a new hobby courtesy of Trish, her best friend). The remaking of the Forever Fudge cake is a hoot. Shopping for new furniture with Trish is a laugh, too. I really liked all the characters in this story (except Chris, but he loves himself enough, lol).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reading Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I pick up a Kelly Collins book I know that I am in store for sweet with a bit of heat and A Tablespoon of Temptation was no exception! It is the start of a new series and it was a lot of fun. Danielle Morgan works for a resort as a department manager and she may enjoy her job but her personal life is the pits. She had a short, awful marriage to one of her co-workers and she has vowed to never get involved with a co-worker again. James Parks is one of the owners of the resort where Danielle works and when he takes over a new location he always works incognito so that he really gets to know the staff and the inner workings of his new location. He has never gotten involved with one of his staff however that is until the lovely and snarky Dani catches his eye! He is overseeing the construction projects so he fails to mention that he is the owner as well when Dani assumes he's one of the construction workers. I loved watching these two get to know each other even as James was keeping something big a secret. It was told from dual POV and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

How exciting to read book one of a new series by Kelly Collins, it always makes me smile with joy. This series is going to be just a good as her others if this book is anything to go by, a hit out of the park for book one.

When love looked like it was lost to them both a little tablespoon of temptation was all it took to bring two wonderful people together, but they are both on unsteady ground. Will secrets and untold truth keep them from happiness?

Danielle Morgan and James Parks meet at the Luxe Resorts on the first day of the new owners taking over, there is an instant connection between them but due to past mistakes, they both take no real attention to the other.

I love all the characters in this book and look forward to book two to see who James' sister Allie Parks gets to meet and full in love with? He may just need to be someone special indeed.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Undercover Boss with a twist of the Prince and the Pauper. Danielle and James have both been burned by previous bad relationships, so they’re both pretty distrustful of the opposite sex. Neither one is prepared for what happens when they meet. Fake relationship stories are some of my favorite books to read. And it follows that the fake identity ones are just as much fun for me. You know that nothing is going to go as planned and the whole thing is going to blow up in someone’s face, but you also know that witnessing the drama and angst will all be worth it in the end. I loved seeing this pair overcome all the challenges between them, and I giggled so hard over Dani’s adventures in baking.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.

[Anne Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tablespoon of Temptation is the first book in a series by Kelly Collins, set in. Colorado. Kelly Collins has written another engaging book, as well as the main characters James and Danielle, who are drawn together from the moment they met, despite both having a previous failed relationship and obstacles to surmount if they are to find happiness together, there are supporting characters that I hope the reader will meet again in future books in the series. Danielle and a James have to balance working together and their growing relationship. This book has likeable characters that readers engage with, a baking thread runs through the story and at the end there is a recipe to let readers try out the chocolate cake for themselves. A great bit of escapism and romance, looking forward to the next in series.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once bitten twice shy, that's Danielle's motto in life. Having been taken for a ride by her ex-husband, she is still paying the price for her error of judgment. When the charming contractor at the resort where she works starts to flirt with her, Danielle is cautious but she gradually lets him in. James also has a disastrous history in the marriage game and whilst he understands where Danielle is coming from he, unfortunately, keeps his secrets which later blows up in his face. It takes a cookbook with magical qualities to make Danielle see reason and come to the understanding that in order to be loved, she needs to love herself first. The novel is well written and Danielle's deep heartache and sense of betrayal come through in her every move but fortunately, she has a good friend that has her back regardless of the circumstances. I love the start of this new series and am already looking forward to the next book. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Shari Tomlinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle has been all work and no play since her divorce.
Her best friend is forever meddling in her love life and she has a mountain of debt, courtesy of her ex.
James, co owner of Luxe Resorts,
works the construction side of the business. He likes staying under the radar, until he meets Danielle.
Kelly Collins has another winner! Look forward to more in this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle and James's story is so sweet. They are recovering from bad relationships and Dani had suffered a few blind dates so she was pretty sure she wasn't ready for more. Dani and James meet at work, become friends and their story just gets better and better. When she reads the words, to find love, you must love yourself first, it gives her hope.

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed; I smiled; and, I read long past bedtime to finish this book. The story is sort of what is called a “cozy” and yet it was contemporary romance to the max. The book is second chances and making life honest. I found recipes in the end; I found the rich can indeed love the poor working people; and, I found that baking can lead to a good life and romance. It’s a sweet book with characters you will long remember and love to see again in future books. Danielle Morgan made a mistake in marriage once but never again. James Parks was a builder of many things; or, was he? That’s where the honesty comes into the story-line. I loved this book and look forward to Book Two. Thanks to the author for this ARC that I truly enjoyed.

[Lindsi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found another series

[Judith Shervington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books where there is an instant connection, you get this with Danielle and James from their first meeting. James is the CEO, not that Dani would know as he is hands on in charge of the construction. Throw in to the mix an ex husband and we have a tale of deception and omission with a side of humour. I really enjoyed the book and if like me you like a bit of angst before the HEA you will enjoy this book.

[Beth Cotter · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this one even more the last book of Kelly's I read. the play between her characters bring you into the story and the baking of the cakes are hilarious. When Dani finally figures out that you have to use the right ingredients to create the perfect cake is when she figures out how to have the perfect relationship with James.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful romance story with a first-rate setting and characters. I enjoyed the unique place of a recently purchased resort being renovated by the new owners, the siblings that bought the business, and the love-focus in the story, Danielle.

James, brother and one of the owners, approaches the new business take-over with the "Undercover Boss" mentality. He already uses his middle name, and his part of their partnership is the construction side, so the existing employees don't realize he's anything other than the lead construction worker. His motive - to get a feel for what the employees really think and say about the resort, each other, and new owners. The one thing he didn't count on - falling for Danielle, the very talented employee who they end up promoting to a high management position. James and Danielle do begin dating, but when she finds out he is her boss, . . . . . . . .

An electronic copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher, #BookNookPress, through #Goodreads, which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #ATablespoonofTemptation #KellyCollins

[Texas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Tablespoon of Temptation - He never lied to her and she did not ask questions. Well written storylines, plenty of humor and good characters make this a quickly read, interesting read, which I found to be much better than Shelter Me. Her best friend and his sister are two interesting, fun ladies.

I do have a peeve. I am so tired of the themes of omission vs. lies, and the female acting stupid: running away, not asking questions, instead of facing the issue. She has sex with the man and does not even know his last name. I guess that bit of self-disrepect is being a modern woman? Also, I find her insulting in her assumption that since he is a construction worker, he is hurting for money. Yet when she finds out how he operates in his professional life, it is still against her personally. Place your head where the sun shines, you twit. Just once I would like to see a female character learn from her past and face the present turmoil with dignity instead of running away and acting like idiot. This common female stereotype is not a good example of a strong, independent woman who experiences growth from her mistakes and pain. I found this book on Booksprout. 4*

Shelter Me - A new series by a talented author with a gift of storytelling. The storylines are interesting. The characters are are interesting, believable with realistic dialog. The fast pace brings the book too soon to the end. 4*

Christmas Inn Love - I enjoy the romances written by this author. They are always delightful and heartwarming with plenty of family values and love. Her writing style is cas$ual and laid back with vivid descriptions placing the reader in the midst of each story. The cast of characters are perfect; the three main characters and the supporting crew are all realistic and believable. The storylines are interesting and keep the reader immersed in the love and humor of all involved. I couldn't put the book down since I cared so much for everyone and wanted to share their experiences. 5*

One Hundred Excuses - This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it immensely. Well written with good storylines and characters that are likable and decent people. I didn't realize this is part of series because other people and previous history were mentioned in passing as if introduced in another book. BUT this did not diminish my enjoyment of this delightful, heartwarming story. I had fun with Mrs. Beasley (from Family Affair), I remember when she hit the store shelves in the late 60s. Now I want to read the rest of the stories. I did skip the sex scenes, for me the sexual tension is interesting and written sex is boring. 5*

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

James

I love the storyline and lovely twist with the cook book.I did think the her not knowing was dragged out to long and I thought her ex would see him with his sister not knowing who she is and tell dani, making the relationship end until he explained.I get why she would be mad I would to but I also get why he did not say who he really was, in truth when it went to sleeping together he should of told he already knew she like his for him the builder.then she would be more understanding.can't wait for allies story will it be with Julian or is he really like a brother?

[Rebecca Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danielle Morgan is done with love after her ex-husband and co-worker Chris cheats on her multiple times and now she has decided to start baking in her spare time. When the hotel she works at Pine Resorts is taken over by Luxe Hotels she knows that now is the time for her to shine and hopefully earn a promotion.

James Parks is one of the owners of Luxe Hotels yet he finds that he enjoys the construction aspect and works "undercover" along side the employees to hear everything that they are going thru and to see things from a different angle. When he meets Danielle he knows he wants to get to know her more but he soon discovers that she has no desire to get involved with another co-worker.

Will James convince Danielle to give him a chance but what will happen when the truth is revealed?

This was such a good book and I loved it from start to finish!

I thought Danielle was a great character and I completely understood why she was hesitant to get involved with another co-worker. I absolutely loved her attempts at baking and how she evolved as a baker and finally began to slowly understand the perfection of the right ingredients. Her baking made me laugh so many times and I love baking but I got what she meant about the bittersweet chocolate and why she felt like she needed to change it! One thing I hated was that Chris did such a number on Danielle's self esteem and she seemed confused initially on why James was so attracted to her.

James was an awesome character and I knew why he needed to work alongside everyone else and hear what was being said. That being said I knew things would definitely backfire when Danielle found out the truth. She was adamant about honesty after everything that Chris did to her. That being said he truly came from a good place but had omitted some pretty important information.

When things blew up they did so in a huge way and I really wasn't expecting for how everything went down. I was glad that Allie was able to explain some things but Danielle was still so mad and i got why. I loved that she finally understood the ingredients but there was also something missing.

I loved the ending and that James was finally able to get through to Danielle and she saw everything he had to offer and that his love was genuine!!

[Bookreviewgirl_xo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Danielle had a bad divorce with her ex-husband, Chris who still worked in the same place as hers. So did James with his ex-wife. James, Allie, his sister and Julian, they owned the hotel together. James didn't really reveal himself as the owner, instead he observed the workers as well as worked in the constructing area. The more James got to know Danielle he started to like her and vice versa. Dani was hopeless in the kitchen but she decided to learn how to bake which at the end, she actually did. Well only one cake. Anyway, when James asked her out Dani's best friend, Trish convinced her to give James a chance since Dani didn't wanna repeat what happened with Chris. But she did Give James a chance. They fell in love. Then Dani learned the secret James was hiding about his real identity. She was furious and hurt. Soon enough both realized their mistakes with some help of course and got together.

P.S. - Chris was fired. Serves him right!

Okay, I actually didn't expect to like this book but yeah, I did. It was cute and sweet romance. I loved the food references. And I like the part that Dani and James were not some mushy couple. I absolutely hated Chris but loved Trish. Hey, that rhymed. But there was no epilogue. Is that some kinda trend going about not having an epilogue? Whatever! I liked Allie. I liked the baking book part too.

*The ARC was provided by NetGalley*


Quotes -

- "Dreaming is good. It's the waking part that's a bitch."

- Think about the minutes in your life. How do you want to spend them? You have a choice about how your forever goes.

- "To find love, you must love yourself first."

[Terry Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Timberline CO the Pines Resort has been purchased by Luxe Resorts, and Guest Services manager, Danielle Morgan, is worrying about losing her job. The owners of Luxe Resorts are James Parks, Allie (brother/sister), and college friend Julian. James is in charge of construction, and he purposely stays out of the limelight and behind the scene. Danielle and James meet in the break room where he startles her and results in coffee being spilled down the front of her blouse. Once he figures out her weakness for coffee, James makes it his mission to deliver a cup every day. The longer James is around Danielle, the more interested and in love he becomes.

The department managers are asked to bring a homemade dessert for the announcement of who will be moved up to the General Management position. The only problem for Danielle is that she can’t cook or bake at all. While at the flea market, she purchases a box of cookbooks and later finds a book in the box titled - Recipes for Love - Unlook Your Heart’s Desire. Inside are instructions that say to choose one recipe, perfect it, and then pass the book on. Danielle keeps trying to get the cake to turn out as she falls in love with James, but will she listen to the cookbook’s reason that baking (like life) like love can’t be rushed.

I absolutely loved this book! Kelly Collins, please keep your books coming. 5++++ stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Riet De Bruin-Strijker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this lovely romance. Danielle and James are such a cute couple. I loved reading about their path to romance. I absolutely love the books of Ms Collins. She never disappoints her readers, it seems. You’ll love this romance with all your heart!
Danielle Morgan doesn’t need a recipe for love, she needs one for life. Hounded by her best friend to find a man or a hobby, she chooses the latter. After all, a hobby won’t break her heart. Perusing the aisles of a flea market, she purchases a box of books with one that promises to unlock what her heart desires. Right now, all she wants is to keep her job and stay ahead of her mounting debt. That is until she meets James, the hot new construction lead at Luxe resorts. Dating a co-worker is against her rules, but James is a temptation she can’t resist.

After a failed attempt at marriage, James Parks is happily wedded to his career as CEO of Luxe Resorts. His job doesn’t complain when he gets home late, and it’ll never take half of everything. Working undercover as the construction lead is his only passion until he meets Danielle Morgan. The last person he should date is a woman who works for his company. But like a decadent dessert, the more he tries to resist, the more he wants her. Will finding out his true identity sweeten the deal or leave a bad taste in her mouth?

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle is a recently divorced woman who is buried under her ex-husband's debt. She's reluctant to find a man after all that her ex-husband has put onto her and while at a flee market, decides to take up a hobby in the form of baking, except she can't cook or bake at all.

James has bought the hotel that Danielle works at with his business partners and, even though he's the CEO, works as the construction lead for renovation. He and Danielle meet and bond over her coffee and soon become more all while she doesn't know that he is actually her boss.

I loved both of these characters and really liked how we got both James and Danielle's perspectives on their thoughts and feelings. It gave a lot more insight and I was able to feel sorry for both James and Danielle and understood why James didn't want to share how wealthy he was.

This story did not get into the details and I think it worked really well for the story. Kelly Collins didn't provide any unnecessary information that I felt was unresolved by the end of the book.

My only issue was with Danielle and her determination to not follow the recipe for her cake (ie. the baking chocolate). But that was just a pet peeve for me. Otherwise, this is a definite read if you're looking for a lighthearted read.

I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.