What do you think?
Rate this book
The Connoisseur's Christmas Courtship: A Holiday Novella
McKenna Washington's heart is as burnt as her attempts at cooking, thanks to a recent painful breakup.
Enter Brette, charcuterie expert and owner of a smile that could melt the iciest of hearts. As McKenna reluctantly navigates her friends' awkward attempts at matchmaking, farmers' markets, and gourmet tastings, she wonders if Brette's expertly curated flavors might be the perfect recipe to help her trust in love again.
Savor this hilarious and heartwarming holiday tale of new beginnings, witty banter, and the art of perfectly paired meats and cheeses.
Enter Brette, charcuterie expert and owner of a smile that could melt the iciest of hearts. As McKenna reluctantly navigates her friends' awkward attempts at matchmaking, farmers' markets, and gourmet tastings, she wonders if Brette's expertly curated flavors might be the perfect recipe to help her trust in love again.
Savor this hilarious and heartwarming holiday tale of new beginnings, witty banter, and the art of perfectly paired meats and cheeses.
- GenresRomance
133 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2024
28 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 16, 2024
Hallmark Could Never…💅
I love Christmas and I love the idea of being in love during Christmas even more.
McKenna is an endearing character, self deprecating and sarcastic with a tinge of people pleasing…but I might be projecting. 🤔 And who wouldn’t fall for a Brette. Their connection was instant and had me cheesing the entire time.
They fell in love before they made love and that’s always nice to see in sapphic stories. This one is also centered around food and anyone who knows me, knows that’s how to lure me into a trap. So long as you feed me, I’ll cooperate.
More than anything, I love LM’s stories, but I love the way she tells them even more. This one is no exception. She paints vivid pictures with her play with words. I would sign up for a class. Also love the way she delves into the details of her character’s work. When we do work we love, it can feel just as passionate as romantic love…mostly.
Low on the angst, high on the heart, put this quick read on your wish list. You’re welcome. 😌
I love Christmas and I love the idea of being in love during Christmas even more.
McKenna is an endearing character, self deprecating and sarcastic with a tinge of people pleasing…but I might be projecting. 🤔 And who wouldn’t fall for a Brette. Their connection was instant and had me cheesing the entire time.
They fell in love before they made love and that’s always nice to see in sapphic stories. This one is also centered around food and anyone who knows me, knows that’s how to lure me into a trap. So long as you feed me, I’ll cooperate.
More than anything, I love LM’s stories, but I love the way she tells them even more. This one is no exception. She paints vivid pictures with her play with words. I would sign up for a class. Also love the way she delves into the details of her character’s work. When we do work we love, it can feel just as passionate as romantic love…mostly.
Low on the angst, high on the heart, put this quick read on your wish list. You’re welcome. 😌
September 26, 2024
This book is truly remarkable. Its rapid pacing and effortless readability make it an absolute delight to delve into. The author's exquisite storytelling captivates the reader, making it nearly impossible to set the book aside. I found myself completely engrossed in the captivating narrative from beginning to end.
The connection between McKenna and Brette was immediate and undeniable. I thoroughly enjoyed the development of their relationship. With minimal angst, this is an extremely cosy Christmas romantic comedy that is a continuous source of enjoyment. Indeed, it is a delightful read.
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it.
The connection between McKenna and Brette was immediate and undeniable. I thoroughly enjoyed the development of their relationship. With minimal angst, this is an extremely cosy Christmas romantic comedy that is a continuous source of enjoyment. Indeed, it is a delightful read.
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it.
October 25, 2024
nothing like a good ole rom com ✨
This book was funny lol It’s been a while since I laughed so much while reading a books but it was refreshing and I loved the chemistry between McKenna and Brette. They’re really cute and just might be one of my fav book couples.
This book was funny lol It’s been a while since I laughed so much while reading a books but it was refreshing and I loved the chemistry between McKenna and Brette. They’re really cute and just might be one of my fav book couples.
September 28, 2024
It's the festive season, the time of year when a spotlight appears on McKenna's very single status.
Not only is she reminded at every turn by festivities filled with her coupled-up friends, but those very same well-intentioned friends keep trying to set McKenna up on blind dates.
Add to this her cheating ex appearing everywhere like a ghost from Christmas Past, and McKenna is ready to grab comfort food and hide away from the seemingly tiny dating pool in her flat with her cat.
However, karma has else in store!
At her friend Serena's Christmas party, Serena tries to set her up with a professor acquaintance. While Lex is good-looking and clearly very intelligent, McKenna's attention is drawn across the room to the most attractive woman she's ever seen.
Leaving the party without even finding out the mysterious woman's name... don't worry, karma has McKenna's back!
On her first date with Lex, the mystery woman from the party is there, and turns out to be Brette. Top chef and owner of the charcuterie and sandwich shop the date is taking place in.
Follow McKenna's dating adventures in this easy to read page-turner that's packed full of witty lines, great food, hilarious situations, Christmas cuteness, spicy hotness, and a judgemental cat...
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
Not only is she reminded at every turn by festivities filled with her coupled-up friends, but those very same well-intentioned friends keep trying to set McKenna up on blind dates.
Add to this her cheating ex appearing everywhere like a ghost from Christmas Past, and McKenna is ready to grab comfort food and hide away from the seemingly tiny dating pool in her flat with her cat.
However, karma has else in store!
At her friend Serena's Christmas party, Serena tries to set her up with a professor acquaintance. While Lex is good-looking and clearly very intelligent, McKenna's attention is drawn across the room to the most attractive woman she's ever seen.
Leaving the party without even finding out the mysterious woman's name... don't worry, karma has McKenna's back!
On her first date with Lex, the mystery woman from the party is there, and turns out to be Brette. Top chef and owner of the charcuterie and sandwich shop the date is taking place in.
Follow McKenna's dating adventures in this easy to read page-turner that's packed full of witty lines, great food, hilarious situations, Christmas cuteness, spicy hotness, and a judgemental cat...
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
September 29, 2024
McKenna “Kenna” Washington is as disastrous in the kitchen as she is in her love life. And her best friend, Serena, playing matchmaker isn’t exactly helping. Serena invites Kenna to her and her partner Yetunde’s Christmas party ready with her latest set up - but neglects to let Kenna know her cheating ex will also be in attendance with her replacement, who just so happens to work with Yetunde.
Even though there isn’t the slightest spark with Serena’s setup Lex, Kenna pushes herself to agree to at least one date - right before she catches the eye of another beautiful stranger at the party.
Committed to the one date - and so she can show Serena she IS trying before she lets both Lex and Serena know she just isn’t feeling it - she let’s Lex surprise her with…dun, dun, duh! A charcuterie class! Probably not the best idea for someone with Kenna’s kitchen skills. But the bigger shock, is that the instructor, Chef Brette, is the beautiful stranger from the party.
Maybe all Kenna needs is a culinary adventure to solve both her kitchen and love-life woes…?
The MCs are likable and relatable with plenty of self-deprecating humor. Kenna’s friends are given enough substance and play a vital part of the overall storytelling. It doesn’t quite feel like a Christmas story as the timeline goes from. Christmas, to New Year’s Eve and culminating with at least the hint of Valentine’s. But if you are looking for an easy read, some spice and a HEA, this book is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Even though there isn’t the slightest spark with Serena’s setup Lex, Kenna pushes herself to agree to at least one date - right before she catches the eye of another beautiful stranger at the party.
Committed to the one date - and so she can show Serena she IS trying before she lets both Lex and Serena know she just isn’t feeling it - she let’s Lex surprise her with…dun, dun, duh! A charcuterie class! Probably not the best idea for someone with Kenna’s kitchen skills. But the bigger shock, is that the instructor, Chef Brette, is the beautiful stranger from the party.
Maybe all Kenna needs is a culinary adventure to solve both her kitchen and love-life woes…?
The MCs are likable and relatable with plenty of self-deprecating humor. Kenna’s friends are given enough substance and play a vital part of the overall storytelling. It doesn’t quite feel like a Christmas story as the timeline goes from. Christmas, to New Year’s Eve and culminating with at least the hint of Valentine’s. But if you are looking for an easy read, some spice and a HEA, this book is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2024
A quick and fun holiday romance full of funny quips that left me rolling with laughter. McKenna Washington believes that she is well on her way to earning a Ph.D in Awkward Encounters and Failed Connections. Her heart is burned and she's tired of her friend's constant attempts to set her up with potential dates. Brette Hunt is the owner and manager of the Hunt & Gaze sandwich shop who but has a true passion for crafting experiences. She therefore runs charcuterie classes and food market tours on the side.
The Connosseur''s Christmas Courtship is a wonderful, at times snort-laugh funny story of new beginnings and courtship as the foodie world of perfectly paired meats and cheeses parallels the journey of two perfectly paired women.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Connosseur''s Christmas Courtship is a wonderful, at times snort-laugh funny story of new beginnings and courtship as the foodie world of perfectly paired meats and cheeses parallels the journey of two perfectly paired women.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2025
✔Sapphic Book Bingo Challenge 2025 🌈✨: Main Board - Set During Your Favorite Season
4.5 stars. Brette, my love. My thirst for this character knows no bounds. McKenna is one lucky lady my goodness. This was wonderful. It was funny, light hearted, romantic as hell, and the spice at the end was the cherry on top of it all. Fantastic and lovable characters and they all felt real. The chemistry between Brette and McKenna was great and I loved how flustered McKenna would get around her. She was awkward as hell and it was so cute. I don't blame her though. Brette is so smooth and charming. This was definitely my favorite book that I've read from Bennett thus far. I adored this and would totally read it again.
4.5 stars. Brette, my love. My thirst for this character knows no bounds. McKenna is one lucky lady my goodness. This was wonderful. It was funny, light hearted, romantic as hell, and the spice at the end was the cherry on top of it all. Fantastic and lovable characters and they all felt real. The chemistry between Brette and McKenna was great and I loved how flustered McKenna would get around her. She was awkward as hell and it was so cute. I don't blame her though. Brette is so smooth and charming. This was definitely my favorite book that I've read from Bennett thus far. I adored this and would totally read it again.
October 1, 2024
Love this lovely feel-good book . Who doesn’t love the perfect food pairings . Is this the new concept in finding the perfect date too? Mckenna Washington has no skills in the kitchen . So what does her matchmaking friend set her up with? Charcuterie ! Well actually he ain’t half bad this Charcuterie expert name of Brette. Is he a safe bet? Witty banter and who doesn’t like meat n cheese . Doesn’t take much to appease whe he looks this hot why not? Yes please….Great writing and witty banter….
September 26, 2024
Part of the Love Cynics Anonymous, and the first book I have read in this series. McKenna Washington and Brette Hunt's short Christmas story is a entertaining well written story that held my interest until the end. This is a new Author to me, I want to read more by her. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2024
Cozy story about finding a romantic connection around the holidays. I really enjoyed this book. The characters were charming and witty, and the writing was good. A good holiday read for whatever time of the year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2024
A story of a female seeking her happy ever after in the arms of another female and feeling that she is always falling short. The dreaded Xmas party season looms and being single she expects the usual match making. But she surprisingly finds just what she is looking for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2025
I wish these type of books were on screen. This would make a great Hallmark Christmas movie. I love McKenna. Would love to be friends with someone like her in real life. The way Brette talks about food made me want to learn more about charcuterie too. This book could honestly be longer or have a sequel.
October 6, 2024
A love lesson of sorts
This was a beautiful written story of mixing wine, cheese and romance. Loved the characters and the challenges of stepping out on faith to find the right person. There is someone for everyone. Brett’s and Kenya were a perfect pair and waited to make it happen.
This was a beautiful written story of mixing wine, cheese and romance. Loved the characters and the challenges of stepping out on faith to find the right person. There is someone for everyone. Brett’s and Kenya were a perfect pair and waited to make it happen.
December 30, 2024
I love how L.M writes, truly paints a vivid story loved both of these short stories!
March 23, 2025
Being alone for Christmas just won't do for McKenna friends. One particular friend decides to introduce her to someone. However, McKenna notices Brette across the room. McKenna sees Brette while on a date with someone else. A Christmas charcuterie class has never been so interesting. Can friendship and love be found while sampling cheese, and ginger jelly?🤗☺️
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews