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Tasting Temptation
A forbidden taste. An irresistible attraction.Young, headstrong chef Slade has talent to spare but a chip on her shoulder. When she loses her job after clashing with a tyrannical boss, she reluctantly takes a private chef gig for a group of wealthy women at a lavish retreat. Little does she expect to meet Marissa Guzman, a glamorous TV personality on the brink of forty wrestling with complacency. Though on paper they have little in common, the sparks between them are instant and undeniable.
As Marissa encourages Slade to embrace her dreams of opening her own restaurant, Slade coaxes Marissa to rediscover her adventurous spirit. The future seems bright until their idyllic fling nears its end date. Can Slade focus on her second chance while still holding onto the woman who saw her potential? Or will playing it safe leave them both unsatisfied?
Dive into this steamy, sapphic age-gap that tastes too good for self-control.
As Marissa encourages Slade to embrace her dreams of opening her own restaurant, Slade coaxes Marissa to rediscover her adventurous spirit. The future seems bright until their idyllic fling nears its end date. Can Slade focus on her second chance while still holding onto the woman who saw her potential? Or will playing it safe leave them both unsatisfied?
Dive into this steamy, sapphic age-gap that tastes too good for self-control.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2024
542 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Arias
36 books1,231 followersHello! And thank you for finding me!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 19, 2024
3.5
I typically love J.J Arias’s books but this one just didn’t do it for me unfortunately. The language was repetitive, why were all the grown women starting every other one of their sentences with “girl” or “bitch?” And the romance just fell short for me. Slade and Marissa made a sweet couple but I just couldn’t feel the love like I can between Arias’s other characters. The angst between them that caused them to be apart for the majority of the book would be such a non issue in the real world that it was just hard to get into the story because it just didn’t feel believable.
I typically love J.J Arias’s books but this one just didn’t do it for me unfortunately. The language was repetitive, why were all the grown women starting every other one of their sentences with “girl” or “bitch?” And the romance just fell short for me. Slade and Marissa made a sweet couple but I just couldn’t feel the love like I can between Arias’s other characters. The angst between them that caused them to be apart for the majority of the book would be such a non issue in the real world that it was just hard to get into the story because it just didn’t feel believable.
August 10, 2024
JJ Arias's book is a guarantee to have a good time, and this one is no exception. Slade and Marissa's story is further proof that Arias is a master of chemistry and longing. The first part of the book centers on the retreat trip and the steamy connection these two share. You truly feel like you are in a bubble of lust and tenderness. It's intense, and you wonder with the characters if that can be real. While the physical connection is undeniable, what made them develop feelings and yearn for more than a vacation fling was a bit abstract to me. It is indeed said that they talked a lot and felt a deep emotional connection, but I am more of a "prove me your feelings by your actions" kind of girl. Though, I do understand that they feel alive with each other.The second part of the book took a direction I wasn't expecting, and I could understand why Slade fell for Marissa. This second part is about them in real life and how much they are willing to sacrifice for their dreams. Arias is very good at creating hardships around the main characters rather than between them, for them to earn their love.
Tasting temptation is a delicious book that fed my gay soul. I loved the four women crew and I am wishing very hard for a book centered on Felicity. Something about her is intriguing and makes me desperate for her to find happiness after losing her soulmate.
Tasting temptation is a delicious book that fed my gay soul. I loved the four women crew and I am wishing very hard for a book centered on Felicity. Something about her is intriguing and makes me desperate for her to find happiness after losing her soulmate.
August 12, 2024
I usually don't give 5-star ratings because few books have had an impact on my reading emotions
I really don't know what it is about this book, but it had something different... considering that, at the beginning, I struggled with the author's writing style (purely a personal issue).
P.S.: A fleeting wish to know what happened with the lives of Felicity, Cristy, and Ruby. They seemed so interesting to me.
I really don't know what it is about this book, but it had something different... considering that, at the beginning, I struggled with the author's writing style (purely a personal issue).
P.S.: A fleeting wish to know what happened with the lives of Felicity, Cristy, and Ruby. They seemed so interesting to me.
August 19, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
August 5, 2024
Tasting Temptation by JJ Arias is an irresistible blend of culinary delights, steamy romance, and heartfelt character development that had me hooked from the very first page. This age-gap romance between the headstrong young chef Slade and the glamorous TV personality Marissa Guzman is a tantalizing journey of self-discovery, passion, and the courage to embrace the unknown.
The culinary touches in this book kept me salivating throughout. JJ Arias’ descriptions of Slade’s culinary creations are so vivid and enticing that I wished I had an ounce of talent in the kitchen to try those recipes myself. The way food is woven into the narrative not only adds depth to the story but also serves as a metaphor for the sizzling chemistry between Slade and Marissa. And let me tell you, their chemistry is off the charts! I could absolutely stand the heat in their kitchen and was completely here for it.
Slade is a character that leaps off the page, and I’m dying for her husky voice to come alive in an audiobook. Her drive, focus, and undeniable connection to Marissa were captivating, and let’s not forget that ice cream tattoo—OMG, hot! Marissa Guzman, on the brink of forty, is a beautifully crafted character—level-headed, kind, selfless, and full-figured. I adored how Arias celebrated Marissa's beauty with lush, descriptive language that truly honored the full-figured woman. Marissa's journey of rediscovering her adventurous spirit through her connection with Slade was both inspiring and relatable.
The patience and understanding these characters showed each other is wonderful. It was refreshing to see a romance where communication and mutual respect were at the forefront.
I also loved the supporting cast of characters, who added depth and richness to the story. Arias has a knack for writing found family, which is one of my favorite elements of her work. The way she portrays powerful women who are still able to make themselves vulnerable is a beautiful example of the many facets women carry with them every day. The found family in this book is true ride-or-die with a good dose of hype girl energy. These are the friends we need in real life—women that support each other, lift each other up, and want to see you succeed.
Tasting Temptation is not just a romance; it’s a celebration of love, food, and the courage to chase your dreams. JJ Arias has delivered another 5-star perfection, offering a wonderfully unique storyline that breaks trope stereotypes and gives us amazing WLW characters. So much sapphic goodness—this is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
The culinary touches in this book kept me salivating throughout. JJ Arias’ descriptions of Slade’s culinary creations are so vivid and enticing that I wished I had an ounce of talent in the kitchen to try those recipes myself. The way food is woven into the narrative not only adds depth to the story but also serves as a metaphor for the sizzling chemistry between Slade and Marissa. And let me tell you, their chemistry is off the charts! I could absolutely stand the heat in their kitchen and was completely here for it.
Slade is a character that leaps off the page, and I’m dying for her husky voice to come alive in an audiobook. Her drive, focus, and undeniable connection to Marissa were captivating, and let’s not forget that ice cream tattoo—OMG, hot! Marissa Guzman, on the brink of forty, is a beautifully crafted character—level-headed, kind, selfless, and full-figured. I adored how Arias celebrated Marissa's beauty with lush, descriptive language that truly honored the full-figured woman. Marissa's journey of rediscovering her adventurous spirit through her connection with Slade was both inspiring and relatable.
The patience and understanding these characters showed each other is wonderful. It was refreshing to see a romance where communication and mutual respect were at the forefront.
I also loved the supporting cast of characters, who added depth and richness to the story. Arias has a knack for writing found family, which is one of my favorite elements of her work. The way she portrays powerful women who are still able to make themselves vulnerable is a beautiful example of the many facets women carry with them every day. The found family in this book is true ride-or-die with a good dose of hype girl energy. These are the friends we need in real life—women that support each other, lift each other up, and want to see you succeed.
Tasting Temptation is not just a romance; it’s a celebration of love, food, and the courage to chase your dreams. JJ Arias has delivered another 5-star perfection, offering a wonderfully unique storyline that breaks trope stereotypes and gives us amazing WLW characters. So much sapphic goodness—this is a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
August 16, 2024
I’m a big fan of JJ Arias. I think she writes tension, chemistry, and steam really well. Unfortunately this one missed the mark for me. I liked all the characters and loved the descriptions of food - I wish this came with the recipes! Everything was really creative - it felt like a chef had written it. Unfortunately, I didn’t connect with the romance, and their conflict and the timeline felt forced. It wasn’t for me, but the author will still be an autobuy!
Short summary: When Chef Slade is handed a cushy job catering to four women on an exclusive retreat, she never expects one of them to light a fire in her heart hotter than the heat of her kitchen.
Short summary: When Chef Slade is handed a cushy job catering to four women on an exclusive retreat, she never expects one of them to light a fire in her heart hotter than the heat of her kitchen.
March 10, 2025
This novel was a mixed bag of an experience. There was good, and although there wasn’t really any “bad” there was certainly a lot of……. Something. Or a lack of something?
This novel had great characters and a great premise. All through the page count, there were great scenes. It was however, missing ~something~. I felt like there wasn’t an overarching plotline, or throughline that tied the novel together. Events happened, and they all flowed and made sense, but that was about all I can say; I was along for the ride and not particularly engaged, waiting for things to happen and then for the novel to end.
The writing was wonderful. I am immediately picking up another by this author, and I have liked the prior novels of theirs I have read. I think that with this novel they just got a little lost in the plotting.
There were a million little details that I didn’t like, which took away from the novel. The central plotline didn’t really make sense (which is a huge problem) and the eventual resolution came from….the characters deciding it should? This isn’t uncommon, but its always underwhelming.
Overall, this novel was fine. 3-stars isn’t a bad rating, but its also not a recommendation.
This novel had great characters and a great premise. All through the page count, there were great scenes. It was however, missing ~something~. I felt like there wasn’t an overarching plotline, or throughline that tied the novel together. Events happened, and they all flowed and made sense, but that was about all I can say; I was along for the ride and not particularly engaged, waiting for things to happen and then for the novel to end.
The writing was wonderful. I am immediately picking up another by this author, and I have liked the prior novels of theirs I have read. I think that with this novel they just got a little lost in the plotting.
There were a million little details that I didn’t like, which took away from the novel. The central plotline didn’t really make sense (which is a huge problem) and the eventual resolution came from….the characters deciding it should? This isn’t uncommon, but its always underwhelming.
Overall, this novel was fine. 3-stars isn’t a bad rating, but its also not a recommendation.
December 13, 2024
I’m conflicted about this book. For the most part, I really enjoyed it, especially the author’s ability to hook me in and create a believable chemistry between the two main characters. I have no complaints in that regard. However, like some other reviewers, I did find the reason for their separation a bit weak and unconvincing. Despite that, I still enjoyed the story overall, and the author’s usual strong pacing and storytelling were definitely present.
July 20, 2025
Love JJ Arias ❤️
August 6, 2024
A connection so strong not even a lifelong ambition can put that fire out. All that combined with delectable dishes that’ll make your mouth water and your heart soar. Take J.J. Arias up on this dinner invitation and be ready to melt into a puddle of want and desire.
Chef Slade was born to be a chef, but her career ended up in the dumpster through an unfortunate twist of fate. Working her ass off for one of the most despicable male chefs in the industry, Slade has had enough. With no job and no money, she’s lucky her best friend Tina hooks her up with a two week gig as a private chef for a bunch of wealthy women. The group of friends get together for a retreat in a fancy villa because one of them is going through a divorce. Slade arrives and intends to do her absolute best to impress the women with her food. What she didn’t expect was her instant pull to one of her guests, Marissa. That woman is sex on legs, but she proves to be so much more than that. Two weeks with her is way too short, but it can’t work can it? Not with Slade getting the opportunity of her dreams at the same time.
Marissa Guzman is not looking forward to this two week retreat with her best friends. This time Ruby is the one that needs their support but Marissa is tired of her friend complaining about her douchebag of a husband. Felicity has organized the retreat to be a rekindling of their womanly power with activities such as goat yoga and emotional painting. Marissa can’t help but sneak away to the kitchen. Chef Slade is producing dishes that are out of this world, but she also sends Marissa’s desire raging. It has been so long since Marissa felt alive. So what if it’s just a two week fling? That’s all it can be right?
J.J. Arias is the queen of desire. This story is no exception. It’s is filled to the brink with sexual tension and delicious flirting. Slade is brazen and Marissa is much more subtle, but the instant chemistry between them drips of the page. It’s all you can do to hang on and ride those fiery waves.
I love the combination of food and desire. Good food can tell so many stories and that is exactly the way Slade communicates. Marissa sees right through her bravado and deep into her soul. She turns out to be exactly what Slade needs and vice versa.
If you’ve never picked up a J.J. Arias book, you have to make it a priority to remedy that immediately. And why not start with this one?
Chef Slade was born to be a chef, but her career ended up in the dumpster through an unfortunate twist of fate. Working her ass off for one of the most despicable male chefs in the industry, Slade has had enough. With no job and no money, she’s lucky her best friend Tina hooks her up with a two week gig as a private chef for a bunch of wealthy women. The group of friends get together for a retreat in a fancy villa because one of them is going through a divorce. Slade arrives and intends to do her absolute best to impress the women with her food. What she didn’t expect was her instant pull to one of her guests, Marissa. That woman is sex on legs, but she proves to be so much more than that. Two weeks with her is way too short, but it can’t work can it? Not with Slade getting the opportunity of her dreams at the same time.
Marissa Guzman is not looking forward to this two week retreat with her best friends. This time Ruby is the one that needs their support but Marissa is tired of her friend complaining about her douchebag of a husband. Felicity has organized the retreat to be a rekindling of their womanly power with activities such as goat yoga and emotional painting. Marissa can’t help but sneak away to the kitchen. Chef Slade is producing dishes that are out of this world, but she also sends Marissa’s desire raging. It has been so long since Marissa felt alive. So what if it’s just a two week fling? That’s all it can be right?
J.J. Arias is the queen of desire. This story is no exception. It’s is filled to the brink with sexual tension and delicious flirting. Slade is brazen and Marissa is much more subtle, but the instant chemistry between them drips of the page. It’s all you can do to hang on and ride those fiery waves.
I love the combination of food and desire. Good food can tell so many stories and that is exactly the way Slade communicates. Marissa sees right through her bravado and deep into her soul. She turns out to be exactly what Slade needs and vice versa.
If you’ve never picked up a J.J. Arias book, you have to make it a priority to remedy that immediately. And why not start with this one?
August 14, 2025
this is why we need a lesbian in The Bear
August 5, 2024
This is the most inspired book i read this summer so far. The characters are lovely yet imperfect. The story unfold beautifully, there is little angst but no miscommunication trope (even if i wanted to shake a certain chef from time to time !)
There is chemistry from the get go, but life got in the way and there are real-life conversations happening. I really loved the secondary characters : Ruby, Crissy, Felicity and Tina, they really served the story, and i want to know more about them. I hope JJ Arias will write somes good sapphic stories for them !
There is chemistry from the get go, but life got in the way and there are real-life conversations happening. I really loved the secondary characters : Ruby, Crissy, Felicity and Tina, they really served the story, and i want to know more about them. I hope JJ Arias will write somes good sapphic stories for them !
July 10, 2025
It honestly shocks me how little I see people talk about or recommend this book because it’s soooo good! It’s one of my favourites by JJ (and if you haven’t listened to the audio for this one, you’re missing out, Kingsley Rose does such a fantastic job).
The tension, lust and passion between these two is unreal!! Ahhh, just read it or tandem with audio 😂😈
And that F-ing ice cream cone tattoo on her finger!? Holy. Hell!! 🫠🥵🍦
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Age Gap (12 years), Chef and TV Personality, Tattooed FMC, Forced Proximity. 5x Spicy Scenes.
The tension, lust and passion between these two is unreal!! Ahhh, just read it or tandem with audio 😂😈
And that F-ing ice cream cone tattoo on her finger!? Holy. Hell!! 🫠🥵🍦
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Age Gap (12 years), Chef and TV Personality, Tattooed FMC, Forced Proximity. 5x Spicy Scenes.
August 20, 2024
It feels like a crime to rate a J.J. book 2 stars but here I am. This novel was just ok, it’s billed as an age gap romance and technically all those words are true on paper but felt different after completion. There is a 12 year age difference between the two protags but it’s only mentioned a few times and has very little impact or challenges on their attraction or coupling. On the romance part, I wasn’t really feeling it. Lust, yes (all of it pretty much immediately) but the romantic connection felt stilted and “going thru the motions”. One of my favorite parts about J.J.’s romance novels is the chemistry and connection between the two mains and it just really wasn’t in this one to me.
July 30, 2024
Let’s just say their first interaction had we actually screaming. Not only was the chemistry explosive but its also full of humor. Its effortlessly flirty and ohhh so delicious. (Pun intended)
Their plot is a lot different from any other JJ Arias book I’ve read which was a fun switch up! I absolutely love how their journey went. It was so unique and logical to their characters.
I absolutely loved Slade and Marissa. They are both so mature (especially with the age gap). Marissa is so understanding and Slade is so driven.
Plus theres flirting over cooking lessons HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE
PS i need a drawing of Slade so i can have her and Delilah and the tattooed arms side by side please.
Their plot is a lot different from any other JJ Arias book I’ve read which was a fun switch up! I absolutely love how their journey went. It was so unique and logical to their characters.
I absolutely loved Slade and Marissa. They are both so mature (especially with the age gap). Marissa is so understanding and Slade is so driven.
Plus theres flirting over cooking lessons HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE
PS i need a drawing of Slade so i can have her and Delilah and the tattooed arms side by side please.
March 25, 2025
This age gap sizzling sapphic romance was so good it hooked me from start to finish! This is the second book iv listened to by this author now and I’m certainly longing for more!
The moment Slade and Marissa meet at a retreat their chemistry is undeniable! What follows is a passionate two week love affair that neither one of them wants to end! Then an incredible offer is presented to Slade which means their love affair is halted!
What I liked about this one was there was no big dramatic reason from their break up, but it was done out of concern and love! Definitely want to try more from this author going forward and the narration was great!
The moment Slade and Marissa meet at a retreat their chemistry is undeniable! What follows is a passionate two week love affair that neither one of them wants to end! Then an incredible offer is presented to Slade which means their love affair is halted!
What I liked about this one was there was no big dramatic reason from their break up, but it was done out of concern and love! Definitely want to try more from this author going forward and the narration was great!
August 1, 2024
A slow-burn, low angst, age gap novel with heat that burns up the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. Marissa and Slade are such wonderful characters and you feel like you are part of the friends group with Felicity, Cristy and Ruby. Icing on a delicious novel.
December 29, 2024
Well written and spicy.
February 1, 2025
I need Marissa in my life
September 12, 2024
Gah this was one big edge fest
August 20, 2024
Hum… too rushed , not enough character development… too fairytale like .. not believable.. unnecessary break up to make up …
August 8, 2024
What happened here??
When I saw that JJ Arias was releasing a new age-gap romance, I was very excited as I had really enjoyed both Destination You and The Love Conspiracy. I immediately bought a copy as soon as it was available on Amazon. Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed with the book.
The first issue for me was the writing. Although Arias' later novels such as the ones I mentioned earlier had the occasional typo, the writing itself was pretty solid and never broke my suspension of disbelief. However, the writing in Tasting Temptation was very stilted and unnatural, primarily due to the overwhelming number of sentence fragments. For those not aware, sentence fragments are incomplete sentences missing their subject or main verb. A few scattered throughout the novel for dramatic effect would have been fine, but when they're included so often, it gets very jarring.
Similarly, the structure of the narrative also left a lot to be desired, especially when considering how it impacted Slade and Marissa's relationship. It is lust at first sight when they meet, leading to them spending the next week and a half pretty much only having sex. This would be fine if they then spent the nexgt while getting to know each other emotionally, so the romance would be believeable. However, this doesn't happen. Slade and Marissa spend the next six-ish months apart barely talking to each other, so their reunion doesn't have a payoff at all. I struggled to tell what the characters felt for each other outside of their physicality. It doesn't help that their split and reunion was for paper-thin reasons, either.
Additionally, some of the plot points really didn't work for me. The aforementioned time apart was because Slade gets the opportunity to open her own restaurant, which she didn't think was possible after getting . This minor twist didn't have enough time spent on it for it to have any emotional impact, in my opinion. To be honest I felt this way about most of the culinary elements in the novel. The opening of Slade's restaurant went far too smoothly, which posed no real challenges or moments for reflection for her. Also, the multi-course meal with deconstructed cheese platter at the end to represent their split? What? It just felt soooo shoehorned-in.
Also, this is probably just a nitpick but I cringed at how Marissa's admiration of Slade's tattoos was written. Aside from the Aries tattoo that's mentioned like twice, the only one that gets any attention is the tiny ice cream tattoo on her finger. If she is so heavily tattooed then talk about her tatto0s!! What does she have? What style are they in? What are their meanings? Don't just bring up the same tiny tattoo over and over again...
On top of this, the age difference between Slade and Marissa has just about no impact at all. In both of Arias' other novels I mentioned, the characters have issues to work through because of the different life stages they are at. In this one, it's mentioned one and a half times and never brought up again. Both characters could have been the same age and it would have made zero difference to the plot, which isn't something that could be said for any of Arias' other books. As someone who loves this trope and bought the book specifically because of it, this issue is what ticked me off the most.
All in all I was pretty disappointed with Tasting Temptation. As I said I bought it on the release day, but I'm only posting the review now because it was just a slog to get through. I'm not sure what happened here, but I hope I'll enjoy Arias' next age-gap novel more.
When I saw that JJ Arias was releasing a new age-gap romance, I was very excited as I had really enjoyed both Destination You and The Love Conspiracy. I immediately bought a copy as soon as it was available on Amazon. Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed with the book.
The first issue for me was the writing. Although Arias' later novels such as the ones I mentioned earlier had the occasional typo, the writing itself was pretty solid and never broke my suspension of disbelief. However, the writing in Tasting Temptation was very stilted and unnatural, primarily due to the overwhelming number of sentence fragments. For those not aware, sentence fragments are incomplete sentences missing their subject or main verb. A few scattered throughout the novel for dramatic effect would have been fine, but when they're included so often, it gets very jarring.
Similarly, the structure of the narrative also left a lot to be desired, especially when considering how it impacted Slade and Marissa's relationship. It is lust at first sight when they meet, leading to them spending the next week and a half pretty much only having sex. This would be fine if they then spent the nexgt while getting to know each other emotionally, so the romance would be believeable. However, this doesn't happen. Slade and Marissa spend the next six-ish months apart barely talking to each other, so their reunion doesn't have a payoff at all. I struggled to tell what the characters felt for each other outside of their physicality. It doesn't help that their split and reunion was for paper-thin reasons, either.
Additionally, some of the plot points really didn't work for me. The aforementioned time apart was because Slade gets the opportunity to open her own restaurant, which she didn't think was possible after getting . This minor twist didn't have enough time spent on it for it to have any emotional impact, in my opinion. To be honest I felt this way about most of the culinary elements in the novel. The opening of Slade's restaurant went far too smoothly, which posed no real challenges or moments for reflection for her. Also, the multi-course meal with deconstructed cheese platter at the end to represent their split? What? It just felt soooo shoehorned-in.
Also, this is probably just a nitpick but I cringed at how Marissa's admiration of Slade's tattoos was written. Aside from the Aries tattoo that's mentioned like twice, the only one that gets any attention is the tiny ice cream tattoo on her finger. If she is so heavily tattooed then talk about her tatto0s!! What does she have? What style are they in? What are their meanings? Don't just bring up the same tiny tattoo over and over again...
On top of this, the age difference between Slade and Marissa has just about no impact at all. In both of Arias' other novels I mentioned, the characters have issues to work through because of the different life stages they are at. In this one, it's mentioned one and a half times and never brought up again. Both characters could have been the same age and it would have made zero difference to the plot, which isn't something that could be said for any of Arias' other books. As someone who loves this trope and bought the book specifically because of it, this issue is what ticked me off the most.
All in all I was pretty disappointed with Tasting Temptation. As I said I bought it on the release day, but I'm only posting the review now because it was just a slog to get through. I'm not sure what happened here, but I hope I'll enjoy Arias' next age-gap novel more.
December 27, 2024
If you've read Arias' book first, you'll know what I'm talking about when I say, with absolute confidence, that when you hear J.J. Arias' partner-in-crime, Kingsley Rose, lather her words, written and unwritten, in her sultry, husky voice that oozes insatiable playfulness and seduction that will leave you wanting more. Just when I thought this book was going to be Arias’ lighthearted, purely fun story, hence my sense of emotional engagement wasn’t that deep, which, uncannily, was how Rose portrayed it with her vocal interpretation.
Let me just take a moment here to say that Arias and Rose’s dynamic collaboration is so perfect, it’s a book-to-voice marriage made in heaven, hands down! It’s like Arias was meant to write for Rose to perform and Rose was meant to be Arias’ vocal muse. So, I can’t see anyone but Rose giving voice to this story, this absolutely delish dish that becomes a thought-provokingly heartfelt MEAL that leaves you with a long fully-sated sigh of satisfaction by your last bite of it! I realised quickly that Act 1 was just the appetiser, always light, fun, and playful, just a taste, a palette cleanser, if you will.
Then came Act 2, the main course - I was deep into tasting the whole dish that was filled with dramatic flavours mixed with a dose of dry humour that were so perfectly spread out that by the end of it, I wanted seconds! All the longing, the desires, the sacrifice…oh, the emotions! The emotions representing these states of mind were captured with such resonance by Arias’ always-richly expressed words that they spoke volumes, reverberated with fervour by Rose’s embodiment of those emotional sounds and nuances with her signature close-to-tears voice, the subtle shakiness in her husky whispers that just tugs at your heart (at least for me!), immediately creating this 3-dimensional depth of realism and authenticity in the characters. Rose literally brought Marissa to life, amongst others, obvs. But Marissa. Yes, she’s my favourite in the story…in writing when I first read the book, then exponentially affirmed when she came to life courtesy of Rose’s captivating personification that divulged her character into an even deeper emotional level, using only her voice!
So it came as no surprise what was to come in the 3rd and final act. After tasting some fun appetizers and the absolutely scrumptious entreé laced with dramatic and supremely sensual flavours that simply explode in your mouth with every bite you consume, the 3rd and final act was presented with an emotionally satisfying dessert filled with a promise of endearing, age-defying love that endured. Rest assured, the last bite will be the one that will leave you fully satisfied with bells ringing as the 2 sensual characters ride together into the sunset, with their body, mind, soul, fully sated.
The Arias/Rose collaboration has once again hit the nail with this deliciously fun and entertaining, TASTY (food-wise, in this context!), and always, always endearing to the heart, thought-provoking to the mind, and resonating to the soul. The best thing? Rose brings all of it to exquisite life.
LISTEN to it. READ it.
Let me just take a moment here to say that Arias and Rose’s dynamic collaboration is so perfect, it’s a book-to-voice marriage made in heaven, hands down! It’s like Arias was meant to write for Rose to perform and Rose was meant to be Arias’ vocal muse. So, I can’t see anyone but Rose giving voice to this story, this absolutely delish dish that becomes a thought-provokingly heartfelt MEAL that leaves you with a long fully-sated sigh of satisfaction by your last bite of it! I realised quickly that Act 1 was just the appetiser, always light, fun, and playful, just a taste, a palette cleanser, if you will.
Then came Act 2, the main course - I was deep into tasting the whole dish that was filled with dramatic flavours mixed with a dose of dry humour that were so perfectly spread out that by the end of it, I wanted seconds! All the longing, the desires, the sacrifice…oh, the emotions! The emotions representing these states of mind were captured with such resonance by Arias’ always-richly expressed words that they spoke volumes, reverberated with fervour by Rose’s embodiment of those emotional sounds and nuances with her signature close-to-tears voice, the subtle shakiness in her husky whispers that just tugs at your heart (at least for me!), immediately creating this 3-dimensional depth of realism and authenticity in the characters. Rose literally brought Marissa to life, amongst others, obvs. But Marissa. Yes, she’s my favourite in the story…in writing when I first read the book, then exponentially affirmed when she came to life courtesy of Rose’s captivating personification that divulged her character into an even deeper emotional level, using only her voice!
So it came as no surprise what was to come in the 3rd and final act. After tasting some fun appetizers and the absolutely scrumptious entreé laced with dramatic and supremely sensual flavours that simply explode in your mouth with every bite you consume, the 3rd and final act was presented with an emotionally satisfying dessert filled with a promise of endearing, age-defying love that endured. Rest assured, the last bite will be the one that will leave you fully satisfied with bells ringing as the 2 sensual characters ride together into the sunset, with their body, mind, soul, fully sated.
The Arias/Rose collaboration has once again hit the nail with this deliciously fun and entertaining, TASTY (food-wise, in this context!), and always, always endearing to the heart, thought-provoking to the mind, and resonating to the soul. The best thing? Rose brings all of it to exquisite life.
LISTEN to it. READ it.
September 1, 2024
3.75*
I liked the first half of the story it was fast paced and romantic, but the second half dragger for me a little bit, it revolved around Slade and her restaurant too much.
Thera are some great side characters and I love Marrisa, she was mature, sweet and understanding woman, Slade was younger, ambitious, lovely, but sometimes made me think like cooking was her entire personality. She believed that owning and working in a restaurant is so time consuming it makes it imposible to have a relationship even though the woman she likes lives close to the restaurant and is one of the investors so they would see each other often. She acted like she was opening a restaurant on the moon and would be the only employee. I know it's challenging, but not to the point of shuting of the outside world, especialy if you have a partner willing to help and compromise.
Also (and that is just my personal opinion or a pet peeve if you will) I'm not a huge fan of books with cooking in them, because mostly I want to read the romance and the funny dialogues and not how to cook sea scallop or read detailed descriptions of deserts or conffesions of feelings through eleborate meals.
Let me tell you if I was Marrisa I would never in my life get the reference that braised oxtail and rosemary toast with bone marrow reflects the deep, rich decadence of falling in love. Or that sacchettoni stuffed with champagne-poached heirloom pears represents the mystery of getting to know someone. Of having no idea what you’re going to find on the inside. Of the rare sweetness she’d found when she’d gotten to know Marissa. No sane person would ever understand those references no matter how in love their are...or maybe it's just me.
To sum it up, I love the writing style of J.J. Arias and I will be on a look out for anoher book. For anyone who enjoys books with cooking and romance this will be an absolute winner. For me it was a good read with some steam and lovely side characters, I could just live without the cooking aspect. My favourite book is still Fighting for Control from Dominion series.
I liked the first half of the story it was fast paced and romantic, but the second half dragger for me a little bit, it revolved around Slade and her restaurant too much.
Thera are some great side characters and I love Marrisa, she was mature, sweet and understanding woman, Slade was younger, ambitious, lovely, but sometimes made me think like cooking was her entire personality. She believed that owning and working in a restaurant is so time consuming it makes it imposible to have a relationship even though the woman she likes lives close to the restaurant and is one of the investors so they would see each other often. She acted like she was opening a restaurant on the moon and would be the only employee. I know it's challenging, but not to the point of shuting of the outside world, especialy if you have a partner willing to help and compromise.
Also (and that is just my personal opinion or a pet peeve if you will) I'm not a huge fan of books with cooking in them, because mostly I want to read the romance and the funny dialogues and not how to cook sea scallop or read detailed descriptions of deserts or conffesions of feelings through eleborate meals.
Let me tell you if I was Marrisa I would never in my life get the reference that braised oxtail and rosemary toast with bone marrow reflects the deep, rich decadence of falling in love. Or that sacchettoni stuffed with champagne-poached heirloom pears represents the mystery of getting to know someone. Of having no idea what you’re going to find on the inside. Of the rare sweetness she’d found when she’d gotten to know Marissa. No sane person would ever understand those references no matter how in love their are...or maybe it's just me.
To sum it up, I love the writing style of J.J. Arias and I will be on a look out for anoher book. For anyone who enjoys books with cooking and romance this will be an absolute winner. For me it was a good read with some steam and lovely side characters, I could just live without the cooking aspect. My favourite book is still Fighting for Control from Dominion series.
October 14, 2024
Tasting Temptation was giving The Real (Ex) Housewives of Miami meets The Bear but make it Cuban American and sapphic. It was spicy and sweet. I liked that there was a little bit of drama with low conflict. Although there was insta attraction and lust it took them time to actually come together which was realistic. The only thing that didn’t feel realistic was their conflict, like I guess, but I didn’t see why they couldn’t at least try to make it work like they planned to do originally. It seemed forced as if the characters needed an obstacle to overcome so this was it. I don't think this should have been marketed as age gap because it was only brought up a few times and added nothing to the conflict. Something about them sometimes referring to Slade as "Kid" didn't sit right with me or just like it was trying to emphasize that age gap.
I liked just about all of the characters, especially Christy who takes tough love and the things she would do for food to new heights. I did feel like I got a lot more depth and characterization for Slade than I did Marissa. They seemed to co-share the role of FMC yet we never even got to see her work or get much background outside of her divorce and failed relationship with the foot doctor. This didn’t stop me from wanting to see their relationship succeed and shipping them because i did like the feelings and emotions they brought out of each other. I just wanted a bit more. It ended satisfyingly and with 0 complaints for me. My favorite part was probably Slade speaking through her food. Although I don't know how in the hell Marissa was supposed to understand the message lol. I liked the scene, but outside of the jasmine and ice cream cone, I didn't know how realistic that was.
I'm not much of a romance reader and typically read them as palate cleansers, so as long as nothing is absurdly wrong, and I find more joy than annoyance I'm prob giving it 4 stars. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author because I’m always looking for a good, sapphic palate cleanser.
I liked just about all of the characters, especially Christy who takes tough love and the things she would do for food to new heights. I did feel like I got a lot more depth and characterization for Slade than I did Marissa. They seemed to co-share the role of FMC yet we never even got to see her work or get much background outside of her divorce and failed relationship with the foot doctor. This didn’t stop me from wanting to see their relationship succeed and shipping them because i did like the feelings and emotions they brought out of each other. I just wanted a bit more. It ended satisfyingly and with 0 complaints for me. My favorite part was probably Slade speaking through her food. Although I don't know how in the hell Marissa was supposed to understand the message lol. I liked the scene, but outside of the jasmine and ice cream cone, I didn't know how realistic that was.
I'm not much of a romance reader and typically read them as palate cleansers, so as long as nothing is absurdly wrong, and I find more joy than annoyance I'm prob giving it 4 stars. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author because I’m always looking for a good, sapphic palate cleanser.
November 1, 2024
This one, for me, is really tricky to rate. By my standards (and heaven knows, each to her own) the writing is way up there, a five. The plotting is very good, believable, relatable, and a four. The want/lust/need/desire, the slow burn actually sizzles. That's a five as well. The characters are great and I am only one of many who wonders what happens next with Felicity. Not perfect but a four.
But, but . . . I am shocked to discover that, personally speaking, there can be just too much sex between the covers, of a book at least. I've been a casual fan of DykeLit for at least forty years. My usual thought has almost always been, "Oh, don't stop there!" Not with Arias in Tasting though. Nope. Seemingly endless, repetitious pages of sex. Way more than once I found myself thinking, "Yeah, we know how that works. Maybe move along?" And not so much offended by the graphic nature as bored by the constancy.
And if I could only tap into the vocabulary of everyone who ever tried to write lesbian romance, I would immediately scrub the words 'messy' and 'smirk'! "Messy bun", my foot! We don't wear our hair any differently than straight women! And you'll never convince me that we lesbians don't have the same variety of expressions as our hetero sisters! Find another way of describing a face! The two words that elicit moans from me, and not the good kind!
So, a rating. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Guess I'll go for the average and stick on three stars, although I really think the book is better than that. I just can't give it the glowing recommendation five stars carry without feeling guilty, and even four feels like false advertising. Three point eight? Yah, 3.8 stars!
But, but . . . I am shocked to discover that, personally speaking, there can be just too much sex between the covers, of a book at least. I've been a casual fan of DykeLit for at least forty years. My usual thought has almost always been, "Oh, don't stop there!" Not with Arias in Tasting though. Nope. Seemingly endless, repetitious pages of sex. Way more than once I found myself thinking, "Yeah, we know how that works. Maybe move along?" And not so much offended by the graphic nature as bored by the constancy.
And if I could only tap into the vocabulary of everyone who ever tried to write lesbian romance, I would immediately scrub the words 'messy' and 'smirk'! "Messy bun", my foot! We don't wear our hair any differently than straight women! And you'll never convince me that we lesbians don't have the same variety of expressions as our hetero sisters! Find another way of describing a face! The two words that elicit moans from me, and not the good kind!
So, a rating. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Guess I'll go for the average and stick on three stars, although I really think the book is better than that. I just can't give it the glowing recommendation five stars carry without feeling guilty, and even four feels like false advertising. Three point eight? Yah, 3.8 stars!
July 18, 2025
3.5 stars — Light, fun, but ultimately forgettable
Tasting Temptation is a low-angst, easygoing rom-com that delivers on charm and steam but falls short of JJ Arias’s usual depth and emotional impact. If you're in the mood for something breezy and undemanding, this will do the trick—but don’t expect it to leave a lasting impression.
The characters are attractive and likable, and the chemistry is definitely there. The romance is sweet, albeit edging into corny territory—something that’s surprisingly rare for Arias. The physical intimacy is well written and steamy as always, but it feels like it takes up a bit too much space. I found myself wishing the characters spent more time connecting through meaningful conversation, not just through touch or food.
Plot-wise, this felt a bit like filler. The conflict that keeps the couple apart felt forced, a non-issue stretched into a central obstacle that only dragged the story out unnecessarily. It gave the sense that Arias might’ve been between bigger projects or simply inspired by a good vacation meal and decided to whip something up quickly.
Speaking of meals: the food theme is present and playful, and I appreciated what Arias was going for—it just didn’t really land for me. The idea of food as a metaphor or emotional anchor is lovely in theory, but here it didn’t quite resonate. Maybe it’s a personal disconnect—I enjoy eating, but I don’t associate a meal with something as symbolic as “this represents the start of our love story.”
Ultimately, Tasting Temptation isn’t a bad book—it’s just not a standout. For die-hard fans of the author, it’s a pleasant read. For newcomers, though, I’d recommend starting with something stronger from Arias’s catalogue.
Tasting Temptation is a low-angst, easygoing rom-com that delivers on charm and steam but falls short of JJ Arias’s usual depth and emotional impact. If you're in the mood for something breezy and undemanding, this will do the trick—but don’t expect it to leave a lasting impression.
The characters are attractive and likable, and the chemistry is definitely there. The romance is sweet, albeit edging into corny territory—something that’s surprisingly rare for Arias. The physical intimacy is well written and steamy as always, but it feels like it takes up a bit too much space. I found myself wishing the characters spent more time connecting through meaningful conversation, not just through touch or food.
Plot-wise, this felt a bit like filler. The conflict that keeps the couple apart felt forced, a non-issue stretched into a central obstacle that only dragged the story out unnecessarily. It gave the sense that Arias might’ve been between bigger projects or simply inspired by a good vacation meal and decided to whip something up quickly.
Speaking of meals: the food theme is present and playful, and I appreciated what Arias was going for—it just didn’t really land for me. The idea of food as a metaphor or emotional anchor is lovely in theory, but here it didn’t quite resonate. Maybe it’s a personal disconnect—I enjoy eating, but I don’t associate a meal with something as symbolic as “this represents the start of our love story.”
Ultimately, Tasting Temptation isn’t a bad book—it’s just not a standout. For die-hard fans of the author, it’s a pleasant read. For newcomers, though, I’d recommend starting with something stronger from Arias’s catalogue.
August 5, 2024
Tasting Temptation is another steamalicious story from the unstoppable J.J. Arias. Arias brings the steam yet again, but like all of her books, she also brings wonderfully developed characters and entertaining storylines.
Chef Slade is down on her luck, but a job as a private chef turns her luck around, in more ways than one. Marissa Guzman has a successful career as a tv personality, but her personal life has been nonexistent for far too long.
The chemistry between the two is immediate but what really makes this story soar are those intimate moments when Slade and Marissa share their stories, their failings and their hopes for the future. This was a book I couldn't put down and I love everything about these characters.
And kudos to Arias for again featuring a full figured woman. I always love to see different body types represented in our books. Tasting Temptation is a wonderfully steamy summer read that I highly recommend!
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
Chef Slade is down on her luck, but a job as a private chef turns her luck around, in more ways than one. Marissa Guzman has a successful career as a tv personality, but her personal life has been nonexistent for far too long.
The chemistry between the two is immediate but what really makes this story soar are those intimate moments when Slade and Marissa share their stories, their failings and their hopes for the future. This was a book I couldn't put down and I love everything about these characters.
And kudos to Arias for again featuring a full figured woman. I always love to see different body types represented in our books. Tasting Temptation is a wonderfully steamy summer read that I highly recommend!
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
September 2, 2024
A Sweet & Sexy Tasting Temptation!
J.J. Arias can weave a tale. There is something in her storytelling that captures you and holds you until its completion. Here is a story about a Chef who expresses herself through her food. Slade, thanks to her best friend helping her out after she quit her last cooking job, got a job as a private chef. Four women were doing a get together to help out one of their own who is going through a divorce. So an exclusive mansion was rented for two weeks and Slade was going to make this experience the best she could. When Slade meets Marissa, there is some serious eye connection going on. J.J. takes us on an all girl/women adventure through cleansing and healing and finding something that was not expected. The women were all cool. The chemistry between Slade and Melissa is off the charts. It is feel good book with a loving HEA.
J.J. Arias can weave a tale. There is something in her storytelling that captures you and holds you until its completion. Here is a story about a Chef who expresses herself through her food. Slade, thanks to her best friend helping her out after she quit her last cooking job, got a job as a private chef. Four women were doing a get together to help out one of their own who is going through a divorce. So an exclusive mansion was rented for two weeks and Slade was going to make this experience the best she could. When Slade meets Marissa, there is some serious eye connection going on. J.J. takes us on an all girl/women adventure through cleansing and healing and finding something that was not expected. The women were all cool. The chemistry between Slade and Melissa is off the charts. It is feel good book with a loving HEA.
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