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One Last Bite
Sadie’s dream job is about to become her nightmare.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
One Last Bite - the gripping psychological thriller perfect for fans of Kiersten Modglin, Freida McFadden, John Marrs.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
One Last Bite - the gripping psychological thriller perfect for fans of Kiersten Modglin, Freida McFadden, John Marrs.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2024
471 people are currently reading
693 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
August 9, 2024
One Last Bite
is a delightful blend of suspense and culinary immersion that quickly becomes hard to put down. With vivid descriptions of the kitchen and restaurant atmosphere, Cupps brings to life a world where readers can almost taste and smell the cuisine.
The story follows Sadie Jackson, who secures a job at Thistle, a prestigious restaurant run by renowned chefs Norah and Devon Winthrop. Despite starting as a dishwasher, Sadie is thrilled to be in the kitchen of such a high-profile establishment. However, she soon realizes that not everything is as idyllic as it appears. Behind Thistle’s kitchen doors, she uncovers a labyrinth of dark secrets and possible illegal activities. Determined to discover what’s happening in a mysterious cabin across the lake, Sadie is drawn into a sinister and dangerous reality as she digs deeper into the Winthrops' secrets.
While not quite Michelin Star-worthy, One Last Bite is an enjoyable read, serving all the expected elements of a well-crafted thriller. Cupps begins the pacing at a slow simmer, gradually building the suspense with meticulous detail. Once the stage is set, the story rapidly escalates, reaching a boiling point in the second half. Sadie is a compelling protagonist whose flaws and moral ambiguity inject unpredictability into her reactions to the dark characters and ominous environment around her.
Overall, Cupps masterfully weaves a thrilling narrative full of flavor and atmosphere, painting a world where ambition and danger intertwine. The book captivates with twists that draw readers deeper into Sadie Jackson's world of high-stakes gastronomy and shadowy secrets. Despite minor imperfections, the novel offers a gripping story that blends suspense with the allure of mystery. Recommended for anyone seeking a fascinating culinary adventure filled with dark secrets and a thriller that lingers long after the final page.
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from NetGalley. Many thanks to Leah Cupps and Inkubator Books for this copy. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Sadie Jackson, who secures a job at Thistle, a prestigious restaurant run by renowned chefs Norah and Devon Winthrop. Despite starting as a dishwasher, Sadie is thrilled to be in the kitchen of such a high-profile establishment. However, she soon realizes that not everything is as idyllic as it appears. Behind Thistle’s kitchen doors, she uncovers a labyrinth of dark secrets and possible illegal activities. Determined to discover what’s happening in a mysterious cabin across the lake, Sadie is drawn into a sinister and dangerous reality as she digs deeper into the Winthrops' secrets.
While not quite Michelin Star-worthy, One Last Bite is an enjoyable read, serving all the expected elements of a well-crafted thriller. Cupps begins the pacing at a slow simmer, gradually building the suspense with meticulous detail. Once the stage is set, the story rapidly escalates, reaching a boiling point in the second half. Sadie is a compelling protagonist whose flaws and moral ambiguity inject unpredictability into her reactions to the dark characters and ominous environment around her.
Overall, Cupps masterfully weaves a thrilling narrative full of flavor and atmosphere, painting a world where ambition and danger intertwine. The book captivates with twists that draw readers deeper into Sadie Jackson's world of high-stakes gastronomy and shadowy secrets. Despite minor imperfections, the novel offers a gripping story that blends suspense with the allure of mystery. Recommended for anyone seeking a fascinating culinary adventure filled with dark secrets and a thriller that lingers long after the final page.
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from NetGalley. Many thanks to Leah Cupps and Inkubator Books for this copy. All opinions are my own.
May 17, 2024
I enjoyed this glimpse into the competitive and hectic restaurant world. This atmospheric thriller entertained and gripped me from start to finish. There was a twist that changed the direction of the plot that completely took me by surprise. There were many times my mouth was watering as I read the tantalizing descriptions of the various gourmet dishes. The original plot and intriguing setting made this reading experience delectably delicious. Thank you, NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my copy.
May 9, 2024
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
Getting hired at a famous Michelin star restaurant seems to be a dream come true for Sadie.
How far is she willing to go to keep her dream alive, and her past behind her?
SPOILERS AHEAD.
Thrilling and full of twists, One Last Bite had me on the edge of my seat, anxious to uncover all the secrets hidden around the Thistle restaurant. I enjoyed the writing style, immersive and engaging, but had a really hard time with the main character, Sadie. Talk about an insufferable character.
Not only was she not the most reliable narrator, she was also opportunistic and kind of selfish. Drunk on the chance of fame and success, she was absolutely blind to the dangers and red flags around her. Her backstory wasn’t expanded on enough to get the full picture, only bits and pieces she shared sparingly throughout the story.
I did, however, really like the other main character. Had they been shown more, I might’ve loved this more.
Even though I enjoyed the mystery uncovering, it was all pretty predictable.
The ending was also disappointing, unfortunately. Very anticlimactic.
The gripping writing really pulled me in, but the characterizations were just a little off, and the plot not complete enough to be satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
❛ There’s a fine line between dream and nightmare at this point. ❜
Getting hired at a famous Michelin star restaurant seems to be a dream come true for Sadie.
How far is she willing to go to keep her dream alive, and her past behind her?
SPOILERS AHEAD.
Thrilling and full of twists, One Last Bite had me on the edge of my seat, anxious to uncover all the secrets hidden around the Thistle restaurant. I enjoyed the writing style, immersive and engaging, but had a really hard time with the main character, Sadie. Talk about an insufferable character.
Not only was she not the most reliable narrator, she was also opportunistic and kind of selfish. Drunk on the chance of fame and success, she was absolutely blind to the dangers and red flags around her. Her backstory wasn’t expanded on enough to get the full picture, only bits and pieces she shared sparingly throughout the story.
I did, however, really like the other main character. Had they been shown more, I might’ve loved this more.
Even though I enjoyed the mystery uncovering, it was all pretty predictable.
The ending was also disappointing, unfortunately. Very anticlimactic.
The gripping writing really pulled me in, but the characterizations were just a little off, and the plot not complete enough to be satisfying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2024
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
3.5 stars rounded to 4 stars.
One Last Bite is an immersive thriller that will leave your mouth watering from all the mouthwatering dishes featured within it.
Sadie is homeless, living between her car and her tent. When a job opportunity arises to work within the kitchen of a prestigious restaurant called Thistle, she can't believe her luck. But not everything is as wonderful as she'd hoped. She gets placed as a pot washer instead of a cook, her prickly boss Norah Winthrop seems to be always in a mood, and the longer Sadie works there, the more she detects things aren't all above board. As Sadie digs further into Norah and her co-owner husband Devons secrets, is she placing herself in danger as it seems the Winthrops will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden.
The start of this book drew me in straight away with its opening chapter, and the twist that threw the direction of the book was one I didn't see coming.
3.5 stars rounded to 4 stars.
One Last Bite is an immersive thriller that will leave your mouth watering from all the mouthwatering dishes featured within it.
Sadie is homeless, living between her car and her tent. When a job opportunity arises to work within the kitchen of a prestigious restaurant called Thistle, she can't believe her luck. But not everything is as wonderful as she'd hoped. She gets placed as a pot washer instead of a cook, her prickly boss Norah Winthrop seems to be always in a mood, and the longer Sadie works there, the more she detects things aren't all above board. As Sadie digs further into Norah and her co-owner husband Devons secrets, is she placing herself in danger as it seems the Winthrops will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden.
The start of this book drew me in straight away with its opening chapter, and the twist that threw the direction of the book was one I didn't see coming.
April 22, 2024
This was an intriguing book. A little slow-paced at first, but it picked up halfway through. Sadie hopes of becoming a chef. But after a stint in prison, landing her dream job is almost impossible. When she finds herself interviewing for a job at an elite restaurant, it looks like her dream is about to come true. But she soon realizes that instead she's been thrown into a nightmare full of deceit and danger.
I thought Sadie was a really interesting character. After serving her prison sentence, she wants to put the past behind her. But she struggles to find her way. I felt the author portrayed her anxiety very well. The twist was a little predictable, but I still enjoyed watching it unfold. The conclusion was satisfying.
Thank you Netgalley and Inkubator Books for the opportunity to read this arc
I thought Sadie was a really interesting character. After serving her prison sentence, she wants to put the past behind her. But she struggles to find her way. I felt the author portrayed her anxiety very well. The twist was a little predictable, but I still enjoyed watching it unfold. The conclusion was satisfying.
Thank you Netgalley and Inkubator Books for the opportunity to read this arc
October 30, 2024
Nothing much is happening and I lost interest even after trying chapter after chapter.
April 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars!
The beginning of this book was fairly slow moving for me but once I got into it it ended up being a quick read.
Sadie is on parole while working at a diner. Her dream is to one day be able to open a restaurant of her own. When she gets the opportunity to work at a Michelin star restaurant things seem too good to be true. She soon finds out maybe she isn’t the only one keeping secrets.
Get ready for twists right until the very end. The split POV part way through helped to build background on the multiple characters within the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher I had the opportunity to read One Last Bite by Leah Cupps as my first ARC.
The beginning of this book was fairly slow moving for me but once I got into it it ended up being a quick read.
Sadie is on parole while working at a diner. Her dream is to one day be able to open a restaurant of her own. When she gets the opportunity to work at a Michelin star restaurant things seem too good to be true. She soon finds out maybe she isn’t the only one keeping secrets.
Get ready for twists right until the very end. The split POV part way through helped to build background on the multiple characters within the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher I had the opportunity to read One Last Bite by Leah Cupps as my first ARC.
October 8, 2024
The author of One Last Bite reached out to me and offered to send me her book for an honest review! I throughly enjoyed it and didn’t see some of the twists coming. I love that the book was mainly set in the kitchen of a lavish restaurant. It was different than most thrillers I’ve read.
June 9, 2024
One Last Bite - by Leah Cupps
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow I absolutely LOVED this book! This deliciously delectable thriller gripped me from the very first chapter!
This story was set in a restaurant setting which is so unique. The authors descriptive writing was exceptional, I could visualise each culinary masterpiece as if I was there in person. I was salivating just reading it!
I really enjoyed this authors writing style so much so that I’ve added all her books to my immediate TBR!
It had a lot of my favourite tropes; domestic thriller, rich people drama, mixed media, dual timeline/POVs, the list goes on…
It was so fast paced with plot twist after plot twist. my jaw was on the floor the whole time reading it. I wasn’t able to guess any of the plot twists!
If you enjoyed the lies and deceit in ‘The Housemaid’, the eerie vibes in ‘Verity’ and the culinary dynamic in the TV show ‘The Bear’ then you will love this! Highly recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Inkubator and the fabulous author Leah Cupps for this free ARC in return for an honest review. I am leaving this review voluntarily
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow I absolutely LOVED this book! This deliciously delectable thriller gripped me from the very first chapter!
This story was set in a restaurant setting which is so unique. The authors descriptive writing was exceptional, I could visualise each culinary masterpiece as if I was there in person. I was salivating just reading it!
I really enjoyed this authors writing style so much so that I’ve added all her books to my immediate TBR!
It had a lot of my favourite tropes; domestic thriller, rich people drama, mixed media, dual timeline/POVs, the list goes on…
It was so fast paced with plot twist after plot twist. my jaw was on the floor the whole time reading it. I wasn’t able to guess any of the plot twists!
If you enjoyed the lies and deceit in ‘The Housemaid’, the eerie vibes in ‘Verity’ and the culinary dynamic in the TV show ‘The Bear’ then you will love this! Highly recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Inkubator and the fabulous author Leah Cupps for this free ARC in return for an honest review. I am leaving this review voluntarily
Read
May 12, 2024What an engaging thriller. It felt really cozy, if that makes sense. The author created a sense of cozyness that enveloped me. The restaurant on a farm with cabins had a rustic charm that added to the sense of cozyness. An inviting atmosphere. Making it the perfect setting for a thrilling tale.I loved Sadie's character at first and Despite my diminishing opinion of Sadie due to her choices, I couldn't help but still root for her. Her flawed decisions added a layer of complexity to the story's development, keeping me on the edge of my seat as I eagerly awaited the consequences of her actions.The big twist happened in the middle of the book which was disappointing because I was looking forward to more shocking twists of the story. This is a quick and entertaining story I'll always remember.
Thank you Netgalley and Inkubator for a ARC copy of this book. This was a honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Inkubator for a ARC copy of this book. This was a honest review.
May 6, 2024
Let me start by how I actually had a good time with this book. The first chunk reads like a very cozy thriller and I was having a blast with it. I liked our main character, Sadie, and the culinary world we were inserted into as well. However, as you may be guessing by my rating, it also had its issues.
Sadie is a passionate and ambitious character, traits that made her very likeable in the beginning, unfortunately ended up betraying her and the rest of the book at the end. She is easily enamored and blinded by a character's charisma even after getting pretty incriminatory clues on how something wrong is going on with them. In one chapter she seems to want to know what's happening, but then when she has the clues in her hands, she doesn't suspect or tries to think them through. This got hastly annoying.
Besides the many times her lust/desire clouded her judgement, it was also frustrating how she says one thing and does the other. She knows that mixing business with pleasure doesn't work, like it also happened to her in the past, but she gets easily swayed and past a few chapters she is all in. And with someone who is highly suspicious of what is going on too? Like, c'mon now...
Sadie also made a stupid and straight up wrong assumption about telling something to a character with fear of them not believing her, even though this person was the one, the first and only, to warn her about those certain people???
The characters felt superficial which made the book extremely shallow and, inevitably, forgettable. The pace was great, I read it very fast, but nothing was ever explored deeply. It's those type of thrillers to read and never think about again. The biggest twist happened in the middle of the book which was kinda disappointing because I was looking forward for more shocking twists that never came. By a certain mark, it seemed like I already knew what was going to happen.
Lastly, one thing that got really annoying really quick was the use of interrogation sentences like:
"But now?"; "What I don't say?"; "But for me?"; "And the worst part?", etc...
There was SO MUCH of this, it took me out of the story. Just narrate normally for a bit, please!!! The writing was fluid and easy to flow with, but so repetitive!
Nevertheless, this was an enjoyable read to devour in one or two days. Recommend it for people who are looking for a fast-paced, non-intense thriller.
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc in the exchange of an honest review.
Sadie is a passionate and ambitious character, traits that made her very likeable in the beginning, unfortunately ended up betraying her and the rest of the book at the end. She is easily enamored and blinded by a character's charisma even after getting pretty incriminatory clues on how something wrong is going on with them. In one chapter she seems to want to know what's happening, but then when she has the clues in her hands, she doesn't suspect or tries to think them through. This got hastly annoying.
Besides the many times her lust/desire clouded her judgement, it was also frustrating how she says one thing and does the other. She knows that mixing business with pleasure doesn't work, like it also happened to her in the past, but she gets easily swayed and past a few chapters she is all in. And with someone who is highly suspicious of what is going on too? Like, c'mon now...
Sadie also made a stupid and straight up wrong assumption about telling something to a character with fear of them not believing her, even though this person was the one, the first and only, to warn her about those certain people???
The characters felt superficial which made the book extremely shallow and, inevitably, forgettable. The pace was great, I read it very fast, but nothing was ever explored deeply. It's those type of thrillers to read and never think about again. The biggest twist happened in the middle of the book which was kinda disappointing because I was looking forward for more shocking twists that never came. By a certain mark, it seemed like I already knew what was going to happen.
Lastly, one thing that got really annoying really quick was the use of interrogation sentences like:
"But now?"; "What I don't say?"; "But for me?"; "And the worst part?", etc...
There was SO MUCH of this, it took me out of the story. Just narrate normally for a bit, please!!! The writing was fluid and easy to flow with, but so repetitive!
Nevertheless, this was an enjoyable read to devour in one or two days. Recommend it for people who are looking for a fast-paced, non-intense thriller.
Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc in the exchange of an honest review.
April 19, 2024
One last bite
Leah Cupps
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4)
Thank you @netgalley for this E-reader copy!
What an amazing popcorn 🍿 thriller! I did guess the twist at the end but still a page turner! Read within a day! We learn from a dual POV the motivations behind Devon through Sadie and ‘Norah,’ all while practicing our own culinary skills (and getting hungry thinking of pastry desserts). The last POV switch threw me for a loop because it seemed like Sadie was SOclose to finding something out when the narration switched. I really liked the side character Sally from Mike’s diner! Wow she was a friend Sadie TRULY needed. Can’t wait to check out more from Leah Cupps!
Sadie’s dream job is about to become her nightmare.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
#netgalley #onelastbite #thrillers #booksbooksbooks #bookstagrammer #kindlereads #foodie
Leah Cupps
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4)
Thank you @netgalley for this E-reader copy!
What an amazing popcorn 🍿 thriller! I did guess the twist at the end but still a page turner! Read within a day! We learn from a dual POV the motivations behind Devon through Sadie and ‘Norah,’ all while practicing our own culinary skills (and getting hungry thinking of pastry desserts). The last POV switch threw me for a loop because it seemed like Sadie was SOclose to finding something out when the narration switched. I really liked the side character Sally from Mike’s diner! Wow she was a friend Sadie TRULY needed. Can’t wait to check out more from Leah Cupps!
Sadie’s dream job is about to become her nightmare.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
#netgalley #onelastbite #thrillers #booksbooksbooks #bookstagrammer #kindlereads #foodie
April 21, 2024
One Last Bite🍴
Read: 04/17-04/21
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release Date: 04/28/24
“Norah Winthrop has just hired me for a job. And she doesn’t even know what I’ve done.”
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop. Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world.
I thought this book was very fast paced and the shorter length of each chapter definitely helped with that. It was easy to read a lot of the book in one sitting! Trying to figure out mysteries surrounding Thistle kept my interest throughout. I also think that Leah Cupps did an excellent job at describing some of the Michelin star meals being cooked by the FMC and others in the kitchen. It was greatly appreciated being that this is a culinary thriller. With that being said, when you do read this just have some snacks on standby because if you’re a foodie like me you will get hungry! 😂
Thank you @netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
Talk soon 🫶🏻
Read: 04/17-04/21
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Release Date: 04/28/24
“Norah Winthrop has just hired me for a job. And she doesn’t even know what I’ve done.”
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop. Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world.
I thought this book was very fast paced and the shorter length of each chapter definitely helped with that. It was easy to read a lot of the book in one sitting! Trying to figure out mysteries surrounding Thistle kept my interest throughout. I also think that Leah Cupps did an excellent job at describing some of the Michelin star meals being cooked by the FMC and others in the kitchen. It was greatly appreciated being that this is a culinary thriller. With that being said, when you do read this just have some snacks on standby because if you’re a foodie like me you will get hungry! 😂
Thank you @netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
Talk soon 🫶🏻
May 22, 2024
This is a well written book with strong characters and an interesting storyline. The author does a great job developing the story and paints her scenes perfectly. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
April 14, 2024
One Last Bite by Leah Cupps ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📚 I recommend this if you love fast paced, split timeline mysteries
🤔 I saw this book come up on NetGalley and immediately loved the cover, and after reading the description I knew I had to read this!! Thank you to NetGalley for making this digital arc book available to me! Publication 28 April if anyone is wanting to read it!
📖 Sadie is on parole from prison and has been dreaming of owning her own restaurant. Wanting to escape working at a run down diner, she accepts a job at a luxury rural restaurant, with hopes of being able to grow her culinary skillset. But the job isn't what she initially hoped, as she starts to overhear conversations Sadie has her own secrets to hide too... Will she get her chance to run her own restaurant or become wrapped up in something more sinister?
💭 I absolutely loved the plot twist in this! It was unexpected but definitely added to the storyline! The ending was great too.
I was initially disappointed with the change in pov halfway through the book, as I felt Sadie was close to making a big discovery, but it does explain a lot of the back story and loose ends for some other characters!
Genre: thriller/mystery
Book Format: Kindle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes & Themes: isolation, hidden truth, cheating, inherited property, family trouble, split timeline, dark past, secrets
📚 I recommend this if you love fast paced, split timeline mysteries
🤔 I saw this book come up on NetGalley and immediately loved the cover, and after reading the description I knew I had to read this!! Thank you to NetGalley for making this digital arc book available to me! Publication 28 April if anyone is wanting to read it!
📖 Sadie is on parole from prison and has been dreaming of owning her own restaurant. Wanting to escape working at a run down diner, she accepts a job at a luxury rural restaurant, with hopes of being able to grow her culinary skillset. But the job isn't what she initially hoped, as she starts to overhear conversations Sadie has her own secrets to hide too... Will she get her chance to run her own restaurant or become wrapped up in something more sinister?
💭 I absolutely loved the plot twist in this! It was unexpected but definitely added to the storyline! The ending was great too.
I was initially disappointed with the change in pov halfway through the book, as I felt Sadie was close to making a big discovery, but it does explain a lot of the back story and loose ends for some other characters!
Genre: thriller/mystery
Book Format: Kindle
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Tropes & Themes: isolation, hidden truth, cheating, inherited property, family trouble, split timeline, dark past, secrets
June 6, 2024
Sadie Jackson, a convicted felon who is out on parole, has a dream to become a chef and have her own restaurant. She lands her dream job at Thistle working with Norah and Devon Winthrop, but not as a chef, as a dishwasher. Right away things seem amiss at Thistle, even her parole officer thinks that working there is a bad idea. Sadie is hiding secrets of her own and she moves forward with the job.
The author was able to weave tidbits of perfectly timed information in order to keep the story moving and leaving the reader completely unable to tell what will happen next. Sadie overhears conversations, sees things not meant for her eyes, and seems to be next to Devon at times she should not have been. The authors culinary knowledge and this setting is unique and appreciated in this genre. Totally a quick and bingeable stay up all night read.
April 29, 2024
This one just wasn’t for me.
There were some continuity errors that took me out of the story. At one point Sadie says it’s only her second day working as a dishwasher, but a few pages later she says she’s been sleeping in her car since she started the job. Every night after work she’s driving a couple of miles away to find a quiet place to park and sleep and it’s taking a toll on her body. Which is it? Is it her second day there or has she been working there for a while? It happens again when she thinks about how she’s been working at the restaurant for a few weeks. A few pages later she’s talking to Brian and thinks about how just last week she was slinging food at the diner. Again, which is it? Has she been at the restaurant for one week or several weeks? There are a few more instances like this throughout the book. I know this isn’t a big thing for everyone, but I just found it distracting.
Sadie’s character was well fleshed out. We get to know her well and understand who she is and her motivations. Unfortunately, she wasn’t a very likable character which made it hard to root for her. Although her character was well fleshed out, it was harder to understand the other characters and their motivations. There wasn’t as much depth to them and we didn’t get to know them as well. Our knowledge of Devon’s character, especially, seemed very superficial.
A lot of the scenes in the book were also too convenient. Sadie was always in the right place at the right time to see or hear things that piqued her interest and made her suspicious enough to do more investigating. The resolution was also too easy. Everything just fell into place so that it all worked out for Sadie and the others.
The idea for this story was a good one. It just fell flat on the execution.
Thanks NetGally and Inkubator Books for the advanced copy.
There were some continuity errors that took me out of the story. At one point Sadie says it’s only her second day working as a dishwasher, but a few pages later she says she’s been sleeping in her car since she started the job. Every night after work she’s driving a couple of miles away to find a quiet place to park and sleep and it’s taking a toll on her body. Which is it? Is it her second day there or has she been working there for a while? It happens again when she thinks about how she’s been working at the restaurant for a few weeks. A few pages later she’s talking to Brian and thinks about how just last week she was slinging food at the diner. Again, which is it? Has she been at the restaurant for one week or several weeks? There are a few more instances like this throughout the book. I know this isn’t a big thing for everyone, but I just found it distracting.
Sadie’s character was well fleshed out. We get to know her well and understand who she is and her motivations. Unfortunately, she wasn’t a very likable character which made it hard to root for her. Although her character was well fleshed out, it was harder to understand the other characters and their motivations. There wasn’t as much depth to them and we didn’t get to know them as well. Our knowledge of Devon’s character, especially, seemed very superficial.
A lot of the scenes in the book were also too convenient. Sadie was always in the right place at the right time to see or hear things that piqued her interest and made her suspicious enough to do more investigating. The resolution was also too easy. Everything just fell into place so that it all worked out for Sadie and the others.
The idea for this story was a good one. It just fell flat on the execution.
Thanks NetGally and Inkubator Books for the advanced copy.
May 29, 2024
I flew through One Last Bite, read it in one day! The plot twist was great, and it was wrapped up well. The last chapter took my breath away. My only thought is the name of the book and front cover art don't really match what I read. Thank you for the opportunity to read this story NetGalley and Inkubator books, in exchange for my honest feedback.
January 29, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★.5
Length: 280p
Source: ARC - BookInfluencers, author
Release Date: May 2024
•••••••
Wow.
My flabbers have been gasted, y’all.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘓𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘉𝘪𝘵𝘦 was a twisted, fast-paced thriller from the first page to the very last! An enthralling blend of suspense and Michelin Star level restaurant drama with a heaping dose of lies and manipulation.
I was on the fence with EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER, except maybe Luis. Every POV we get (it’s a few different ones) offers a piece of the puzzle. You like someone and then you turn your nose up at them. You think one person is horrible, and then another shows their true colors.
The ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly considering the build up but the story as a whole was SO GOOD. It’s been a while since I’ve read a strict thriller and I’m hooked. I honestly had problems putting this one down.
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
🍽️ psychological thriller
🔪 hidden identity
🍽️ restaurant setting
🔪 twists, lies, betrayals
{I received a complimentary copy of this book. All reviews are my own.}
•
•
•
Length: 280p
Source: ARC - BookInfluencers, author
Release Date: May 2024
•••••••
Wow.
My flabbers have been gasted, y’all.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘓𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘉𝘪𝘵𝘦 was a twisted, fast-paced thriller from the first page to the very last! An enthralling blend of suspense and Michelin Star level restaurant drama with a heaping dose of lies and manipulation.
I was on the fence with EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER, except maybe Luis. Every POV we get (it’s a few different ones) offers a piece of the puzzle. You like someone and then you turn your nose up at them. You think one person is horrible, and then another shows their true colors.
The ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly considering the build up but the story as a whole was SO GOOD. It’s been a while since I’ve read a strict thriller and I’m hooked. I honestly had problems putting this one down.
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
🍽️ psychological thriller
🔪 hidden identity
🍽️ restaurant setting
🔪 twists, lies, betrayals
{I received a complimentary copy of this book. All reviews are my own.}
•
•
•
May 30, 2024
The story is well written with plenty of plot twists and turns to keep you from guessing the ending.
Thank you to Leah Cupps, NetGalley and Inkubator Books for the arc of this book
Thank you to Leah Cupps, NetGalley and Inkubator Books for the arc of this book
June 4, 2024
A different but good reading experience
June 12, 2024
Not at all what I was expecting! It took a bit to hook me but I'm so glad I didn't give up on this book.
July 19, 2024
what ! this book was so much better than I expected. had a couple little twists in it. very quick read too, i highly recommend !
January 5, 2025
Very predictable for me but still a very entertaining read
February 4, 2025
This book took me right back to my days of working in a restaurant. It was fun and entertaining.
April 25, 2025
It was so so. I liked that it was set in the kitchen/restaurant
June 3, 2024
This started out so good. Lots of suspense and tension with a fast pace. But there needs to be some fact-checking done because the storyline has quite a few plot holes that yanked me right out of the story until finally, I just didn't care what happened anymore.
June 8, 2024
Title: One Last Bite
Author: Leah Cupps
Publisher: Inkubator Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pages: 276
Rating: 4/5
Book Blurb:
Sadie’s dream job is about to become her nightmare.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
Review:
I’ve actually been on a break from e-books but when this popped into my inbox, I couldn’t let the opportunity go! The title, the eye-catching front cover and the intriguing description really hooked me in. This sounded like my perfect kind of read and I’d generated so many questions from the description alone, meant I was more than eager to dive in.
What I liked about this read was that I was instantly wary of the characters, I loved that they all roused suspicion at times. I also really liked how the author drip fed you information, this meant I had to keep racing through the pages to find the answers to my questions.
I’ve read that many psychological thrillers, that I can often work out the plot, but I love how this book managed to surprise me, I didn’t see the big twists coming and I was kept on my toes throughout!
The author did a fantastic job at creating an atmosphere and the build up to the climax was perfectly executed. I through flew this book, it really was an enjoyable thriller!
Author: Leah Cupps
Publisher: Inkubator Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pages: 276
Rating: 4/5
Book Blurb:
Sadie’s dream job is about to become her nightmare.
Chef Sadie Jackson is ready to escape a troubled past, so she’s overjoyed when she’s offered the chance to work at Thistle, a new restaurant owned by her culinary heroes the legendary Devon and Norah Winthrop.
Even though she’s starting out as a dishwasher, Sadie’s willing to do whatever it takes to impress the golden couple.
But she soon discovers that something is off in the Winthrops’ seemingly perfect world. Sadie hears whispers of money troubles. Illegal activities. She sees the strange bruises on Norah’s arms.
And then there’s the mysterious cabin at the back of the property. Why is there always a light on at night? Who is staying there?
Sadie begins to understand that the Winthrops have a very dark secret. A secret which, if it’s ever revealed, will destroy their perfect lives. And that makes her wonder just how far they’ll go to protect their glowing reputation.
She’s about to find out….
Review:
I’ve actually been on a break from e-books but when this popped into my inbox, I couldn’t let the opportunity go! The title, the eye-catching front cover and the intriguing description really hooked me in. This sounded like my perfect kind of read and I’d generated so many questions from the description alone, meant I was more than eager to dive in.
What I liked about this read was that I was instantly wary of the characters, I loved that they all roused suspicion at times. I also really liked how the author drip fed you information, this meant I had to keep racing through the pages to find the answers to my questions.
I’ve read that many psychological thrillers, that I can often work out the plot, but I love how this book managed to surprise me, I didn’t see the big twists coming and I was kept on my toes throughout!
The author did a fantastic job at creating an atmosphere and the build up to the climax was perfectly executed. I through flew this book, it really was an enjoyable thriller!
June 10, 2024
Ok, so maybe I was a little peckish when I grabbed for this book...and it really didn't help me be good!
The food descriptions here are glorious and had me grabbing for the snacks throughout!
Sadie lands a job at the new restaurant, just opened by her culinary heroes Devon and Norah.
Starting at the bottom, but she's happy to be there and able to show them what she can do.
Now up so close, Sadie starts to see and hear things that make her wonder just how perfect the relationship really is - and she's determined to uncover the truth.
This appealed to me straight away with such a gorgeous cover.
I love the use of the fork and strawberry depicting our setting, but it's definitely giving sinister vibes.
This drew me in from the first page. The start giving us a hint of what's to come later.
Sadie was a great character to explore and we soon find out that she has her own secrets and flawed past.
I found the dynamics between Norah and Devon and their own history really intriguing and I had moments of real indecision over whether I could relate or not.
I hate to discuss the plot - but I was a little surprised by the storyline and that we were more focussed on the character development with the food and restaurant side being a more secondary element.
Having said that, there was a lot of food talk which I loved!
This was my first read from this author.
I found it fast-paced and exciting and just what I want from a psychological thriller.
A great read and I'm looking forward to the next one.
The food descriptions here are glorious and had me grabbing for the snacks throughout!
Sadie lands a job at the new restaurant, just opened by her culinary heroes Devon and Norah.
Starting at the bottom, but she's happy to be there and able to show them what she can do.
Now up so close, Sadie starts to see and hear things that make her wonder just how perfect the relationship really is - and she's determined to uncover the truth.
This appealed to me straight away with such a gorgeous cover.
I love the use of the fork and strawberry depicting our setting, but it's definitely giving sinister vibes.
This drew me in from the first page. The start giving us a hint of what's to come later.
Sadie was a great character to explore and we soon find out that she has her own secrets and flawed past.
I found the dynamics between Norah and Devon and their own history really intriguing and I had moments of real indecision over whether I could relate or not.
I hate to discuss the plot - but I was a little surprised by the storyline and that we were more focussed on the character development with the food and restaurant side being a more secondary element.
Having said that, there was a lot of food talk which I loved!
This was my first read from this author.
I found it fast-paced and exciting and just what I want from a psychological thriller.
A great read and I'm looking forward to the next one.
June 9, 2024
This book was pretty slow up until about halfway through, but builds the storyline up for a twist of an ending. If you're a foodie, you'll love all of the descriptive way the food is talked about. I found Sadie kind of unlikeable and not having a ton of common sense, and the mafia-like angle wasn't exactly necessary. However, this was a fun and quick read and I enjoyed twists and multiple POVs toward the end.
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