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Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget
She's a good girl trying to rebuild her restaurant.
He's a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.
For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.
With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.
Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is a spicy, fast-paced romance you can read in one sitting.
He's a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.
For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.
With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.
Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is a spicy, fast-paced romance you can read in one sitting.
288 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2025
13 people are currently reading
5077 people want to read
About the author
Zuri Day
96 books275 followersZuri Day is a hopeful romantic. She believes in happy endings, half-full glasses and dreams coming true. That's why she's thrilled to be a contributing writer to this genre...one of her favorites!
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
December 2, 2025
Thank you to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for this ALC. This is my personal review.
I snagged this ALC because the premise was super intriguing. An independent, headstrong entrepreneur with a struggle business falls for a sexy chef just released from prison. This book has a lot going for it, but unfortunately, it wasn't a good fit for me.
What Worked:
-The premise is super interesting!
-It's spicy! From the beginning, Jamilah is into Rashad, and we get all her fantasies.
-The book does a good job of addressing how all humans, regardless of their past, are worthy of respect, second chances, and love.
What Was Hit or Miss:
-The writing was interesting to me. It alternates between character's use of slang and more formal language. But while the characters spoke in slang, their internal thoughts and narration were in more formal language. This created a disconnect for me. But it could work for others.
What Didn't Work for Me:
-This book makes a lot of comments on women's bodies regarding their size. Within the first 10% of the book, the narrator refers to herself as a curvy, plus size, size 10. And then another character later refers to her "size 18 ass" as fat. To which another character says she's not fat, but thick. The fmc also states she's wearing a dress that "insinuates she should skip dessert". All of the comments about weight/size made me uncomfortable.
-One of the main tensions between the mc's is the mmc's rough history with police (as a black man in an urban area) and the fmc's love for her police officer father. While this is an interesting part of the plot, I thought it was a weird conversation to have in a contemporary romance given our current political climate.
All in all, while this wasn't for me, I'm sure there are some readers out there who will absolutely love this book. It's set in Kansas City, which immediately gave it bonus points in my book too. So if you're a midwestern romance loving foodie, definitely give this a shot.
I snagged this ALC because the premise was super intriguing. An independent, headstrong entrepreneur with a struggle business falls for a sexy chef just released from prison. This book has a lot going for it, but unfortunately, it wasn't a good fit for me.
What Worked:
-The premise is super interesting!
-It's spicy! From the beginning, Jamilah is into Rashad, and we get all her fantasies.
-The book does a good job of addressing how all humans, regardless of their past, are worthy of respect, second chances, and love.
What Was Hit or Miss:
-The writing was interesting to me. It alternates between character's use of slang and more formal language. But while the characters spoke in slang, their internal thoughts and narration were in more formal language. This created a disconnect for me. But it could work for others.
What Didn't Work for Me:
-This book makes a lot of comments on women's bodies regarding their size. Within the first 10% of the book, the narrator refers to herself as a curvy, plus size, size 10. And then another character later refers to her "size 18 ass" as fat. To which another character says she's not fat, but thick. The fmc also states she's wearing a dress that "insinuates she should skip dessert". All of the comments about weight/size made me uncomfortable.
-One of the main tensions between the mc's is the mmc's rough history with police (as a black man in an urban area) and the fmc's love for her police officer father. While this is an interesting part of the plot, I thought it was a weird conversation to have in a contemporary romance given our current political climate.
All in all, while this wasn't for me, I'm sure there are some readers out there who will absolutely love this book. It's set in Kansas City, which immediately gave it bonus points in my book too. So if you're a midwestern romance loving foodie, definitely give this a shot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
"Your dad is a cop ... Good thing I'm only trying to be your cook and not your man." - Rashad to Jamilah
5/5 Stars ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Delightful read about an ex-con on parole trying to improve his life and successful business woman Jamilah. Her protective father works for the cops and forbids her from working with Rashad. However, he is legitimately a stellar chef who will take her restaurant to new heights. Not to mention, he's reforming his ways and terribly charismatic. Why should she resist?
Thank you @hqn_shamelessromantics and @netgalley for the #gifted ebook in exchange for my honest review.
5/5 Stars ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Delightful read about an ex-con on parole trying to improve his life and successful business woman Jamilah. Her protective father works for the cops and forbids her from working with Rashad. However, he is legitimately a stellar chef who will take her restaurant to new heights. Not to mention, he's reforming his ways and terribly charismatic. Why should she resist?
Thank you @hqn_shamelessromantics and @netgalley for the #gifted ebook in exchange for my honest review.
December 9, 2025
ALC review from Netgalley
Zuri Day has always been a favorite of mine, and I’m so glad to see a new release that not only entertains but also shines a light on real social issues. This audiobook was a surprisingly powerful listen equal parts romance, redemption, and resilience.
✨ Highlights
- Rashad’s Journey: Recently released from jail after youthful mistakes and unfair circumstances, Rashad is determined to rebuild his life. His passion for cooking developed before and sharpened during his time inside makes him an exceptional chef. Yet society continues to judge him by his past, reluctant to give him a fair chance.
- Jamilah’s Conflict: As the daughter of a retired detective, Jamilah has grown up with her father’s strong opinions about criminals and felons. When she hires Rashad out of necessity for her restaurant, she finds herself caught between her father’s prejudices and her own growing admiration for Rashad’s talent and integrity.
- Themes of Prejudice & Perseverance: The novel doesn’t shy away from showing how Rashad is still accused of things tied to his past, despite his efforts to move forward. The head chef and restaurant owner embody society’s preconceived notions, creating tension that feels both real and relevant.
💕 The Romance
This isn’t a whirlwind love story it’s a slow burn, tender and complicated. Rashad and Jamilah’s relationship is hard-fought and deeply earned. Watching Jamilah stand up to her father’s biases adds another layer of emotional depth, making the romance feel all the more powerful.
🎙️ Audiobook
The narration captures Rashad’s resilience and Jamilah’s inner conflict beautifully. The pacing matches the slow-burn romance, allowing listeners to savor the emotional beats and the social commentary woven throughout.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is more than just a love story it’s about second chances, breaking free from stereotypes, and the courage to fight for love and dignity. Zuri Day delivers a heartfelt, socially conscious romance that feels both timely and timeless.
Zuri Day has always been a favorite of mine, and I’m so glad to see a new release that not only entertains but also shines a light on real social issues. This audiobook was a surprisingly powerful listen equal parts romance, redemption, and resilience.
✨ Highlights
- Rashad’s Journey: Recently released from jail after youthful mistakes and unfair circumstances, Rashad is determined to rebuild his life. His passion for cooking developed before and sharpened during his time inside makes him an exceptional chef. Yet society continues to judge him by his past, reluctant to give him a fair chance.
- Jamilah’s Conflict: As the daughter of a retired detective, Jamilah has grown up with her father’s strong opinions about criminals and felons. When she hires Rashad out of necessity for her restaurant, she finds herself caught between her father’s prejudices and her own growing admiration for Rashad’s talent and integrity.
- Themes of Prejudice & Perseverance: The novel doesn’t shy away from showing how Rashad is still accused of things tied to his past, despite his efforts to move forward. The head chef and restaurant owner embody society’s preconceived notions, creating tension that feels both real and relevant.
💕 The Romance
This isn’t a whirlwind love story it’s a slow burn, tender and complicated. Rashad and Jamilah’s relationship is hard-fought and deeply earned. Watching Jamilah stand up to her father’s biases adds another layer of emotional depth, making the romance feel all the more powerful.
🎙️ Audiobook
The narration captures Rashad’s resilience and Jamilah’s inner conflict beautifully. The pacing matches the slow-burn romance, allowing listeners to savor the emotional beats and the social commentary woven throughout.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is more than just a love story it’s about second chances, breaking free from stereotypes, and the courage to fight for love and dignity. Zuri Day delivers a heartfelt, socially conscious romance that feels both timely and timeless.
January 7, 2026
thank you netgalley & HarperCollins for a free copy of this audiobook! i would give this a 2.75/5. i wasn’t a fan of the main character having little to no understanding of the criminal justice system and how it impacts black ppl. it makes sense for the story and its like an opposites attract thing but it was just annoying to me like she was overly naive. overall though i did enjoy the writing!
November 25, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC. Unfortunately, this one wasn’t a match for me. The premise had promise, but the execution felt dated, especially in tone and language. The heroine is 29, yet her voice reads much older—using phrases like “young man” and self-descriptions that don’t reflect how most women in their twenties speak or see themselves today.
While I can appreciate the author’s effort to balance humor and sensuality, the story’s energy and dialogue felt more suited to a midlife romance audience rather than a contemporary younger demographic. The outdated body image references (such as calling a size 10 “plus size”) further reinforced the generational gap.
Ultimately, I couldn’t connect with the characters or voice enough to continue, but I recognize that longtime fans of Zuri Day’s earlier works may still enjoy her signature style and perspective.
While I can appreciate the author’s effort to balance humor and sensuality, the story’s energy and dialogue felt more suited to a midlife romance audience rather than a contemporary younger demographic. The outdated body image references (such as calling a size 10 “plus size”) further reinforced the generational gap.
Ultimately, I couldn’t connect with the characters or voice enough to continue, but I recognize that longtime fans of Zuri Day’s earlier works may still enjoy her signature style and perspective.
January 1, 2026
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget was such a fun, heartfelt, and satisfying read. I loved the contrast between Jamilah’s polished, by-the-book personality and Rashad’s rough-around-the-edges, rule-breaking energy. Their banter was great, their chemistry felt natural, and watching them clash, grow, and slowly come together made the story impossible to put down.
I really connected with Jamilah. Her drive, her refined tastes, and the pressure of carrying a dream that feels like it’s slipping away all felt incredibly real to me. Her struggle to keep her restaurant alive while trying to do everything “right” was relatable, emotional, and inspiring. Rashad was such a compelling love interest—talented, guarded, and determined to prove he’s more than his past—and the kitchen setting added so much warmth and heart to the story.
What I learned from this book is that it’s okay to ask for help, loosen control, and trust the process, even when things don’t go according to plan. Your past or current struggles don’t define your worth, and sometimes growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and letting someone meet you where you are. This story beautifully shows that fresh starts, healing, and love can come from the most unexpected places.
If you enjoy opposites-attract romance, second chances, strong character growth, and stories with heart and heat, this book is absolutely worth the read.
I really connected with Jamilah. Her drive, her refined tastes, and the pressure of carrying a dream that feels like it’s slipping away all felt incredibly real to me. Her struggle to keep her restaurant alive while trying to do everything “right” was relatable, emotional, and inspiring. Rashad was such a compelling love interest—talented, guarded, and determined to prove he’s more than his past—and the kitchen setting added so much warmth and heart to the story.
What I learned from this book is that it’s okay to ask for help, loosen control, and trust the process, even when things don’t go according to plan. Your past or current struggles don’t define your worth, and sometimes growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and letting someone meet you where you are. This story beautifully shows that fresh starts, healing, and love can come from the most unexpected places.
If you enjoy opposites-attract romance, second chances, strong character growth, and stories with heart and heat, this book is absolutely worth the read.
December 30, 2025
3.5 rounded up.
A fun, quick steamy weekend read.
Rashad is a reformed bad boy with dreams of opening his own restaurant (and rap 🙃) On paper, he’s no one’s dream guy. Jobless, lives in a basement and a self-proclaimed alpha male with a rap sheet longer than the book itself, I am amazed Zuri was able to make this character likable. However, he was probably my fave out of the book, he turned out to be a teddy bear, self-righteous at times but his determination is admirable.
Jamilah is a restaurant owner drowning in debt and a risk of losing her business. Against her judgement, heavily influenced by her cop father, takes a chance on Rashad as her head chef and they turn up the heat in the kitchen and the bedroom. Jamilah is sheltered maybe a little too much (she didn’t know what melanated was 🥴) and a Daddy’s Girl to the core that obviously complicates her relationship professionally with the bad boy.
The book was overall enjoyable, but the rapping was throwing me off and felt like such an unnecessary part of Rashad’s story. I received an ALC from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and each time the narrator began rapping, I just couldn’t take it!
A fun, quick steamy weekend read.
Rashad is a reformed bad boy with dreams of opening his own restaurant (and rap 🙃) On paper, he’s no one’s dream guy. Jobless, lives in a basement and a self-proclaimed alpha male with a rap sheet longer than the book itself, I am amazed Zuri was able to make this character likable. However, he was probably my fave out of the book, he turned out to be a teddy bear, self-righteous at times but his determination is admirable.
Jamilah is a restaurant owner drowning in debt and a risk of losing her business. Against her judgement, heavily influenced by her cop father, takes a chance on Rashad as her head chef and they turn up the heat in the kitchen and the bedroom. Jamilah is sheltered maybe a little too much (she didn’t know what melanated was 🥴) and a Daddy’s Girl to the core that obviously complicates her relationship professionally with the bad boy.
The book was overall enjoyable, but the rapping was throwing me off and felt like such an unnecessary part of Rashad’s story. I received an ALC from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and each time the narrator began rapping, I just couldn’t take it!
January 10, 2026
I really liked the premise of this one. A “good girl” restaurant owner with a cop for a father and a “bad boy” felon who is looking for his second chance. Also thought the cover was super cute so I was quick to request the ALC of this one.
I really enjoy Rashad’s “redemption” and how he proved his worth is not deterred by what someone sees on paper.
I have to admit I wasn’t completely sold on the romance between the Rashad and Jamilah. To me it felt more like they were just acting upon their lust rather than having actually feelings for one another. I still found the entire story enjoyable though and the narrator did a great job.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC
I really enjoy Rashad’s “redemption” and how he proved his worth is not deterred by what someone sees on paper.
I have to admit I wasn’t completely sold on the romance between the Rashad and Jamilah. To me it felt more like they were just acting upon their lust rather than having actually feelings for one another. I still found the entire story enjoyable though and the narrator did a great job.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC
December 25, 2025
I enjoyed this book
Perfect for fans of:
☯️ Opposites attract
👔 Workplace romance
🌶️ Spicy
Perfect for fans of:
☯️ Opposites attract
👔 Workplace romance
🌶️ Spicy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑 (One scene kind of cut off the ending but overall there were decent details and foreplay, etc)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥 (I could be way off on this because I didn’t take notes – but I think there’s only 2 full scenes. There’s some mentions of sex, kisses, etc)
Humor: A bit
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in – chapter 3
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily for now for the mains
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in audiobook form
Why I chose this book: Title sounded fun!
Mains: Rashad White and Jamilah Carver – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I think this stands alone
Basic plot:
Jamilah is trying to make her restaurant succeed and she’s in desperate need for a chef – enter Rashad, a former convict looking to start a new life in Missouri.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- Missouri setting
- restaurant owner heroine
- chef hero
- he’s a former convict and her father is a cop with some prejudices to work through
- slower burn – it takes awhile for them to fall into a relationship, but there’s decent tension building in the first half!
- medium steam – don’t quote me because I didn’t take notes this time but I think there was 2 full scenes along with some kisses and mentions of evenings together
Ages:
- oof I meant to note this because I know the heroine was said – I want to say she’s like 29? close to 30. Didn’t catch hero but would guess a bit older?
First line:
Jamilah turned up the volume on the r&b streaming channel, and bobbed her head to the upbeat music as she crossed the kitchen floor.
My thoughts:
I was really excited to read this one – the title and cover and the synopsis sounded really fun. And there was still a lot I liked about this novel – I really loved both mains and was rooting for them the whole book. I loved how everything seemed to pull together by the end, even things that I thought were just minor came back in to wrap up by the end (like his one night stand).
I think maybe I struggled a bit because I had in my head this book was going to be a bit different? Maybe it was more...like somber than I was expecting? I don’t know. I loved how real they were with each other and the vulnerable factors that came in. Rashad with his boundaries about people making assumptions about him and teaching Jamilah about respect and Jamilah had a lot of work to do with some of her biases and wanting to control the outcome of every situation. I loved that this was showcased as a part of their relationship – but it also had a really slow start and then I felt like Jamilah was repeatedly asking for fogiveness and towards the end still had similar doubts so I found that frustrationg.
I really loved the ending of the story and how they both were succeeding even with everything stacked up against them. The book did feel long to me and I was surprised when I looked at the page count that it was like 100 pages longer...maybe it was my interest waning. But overall I really liked Day’s writing and would try again!
I LOVED J Shani Michaels narration. It’s rare that I am like ‘they did every voice perfect’ as well as a good general narration but I felt like that with her. Would love to listen to more audiobooks with them narrating – it was a treat!
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑 (One scene kind of cut off the ending but overall there were decent details and foreplay, etc)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥 (I could be way off on this because I didn’t take notes – but I think there’s only 2 full scenes. There’s some mentions of sex, kisses, etc)
Humor: A bit
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in – chapter 3
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily for now for the mains
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in audiobook form
Why I chose this book: Title sounded fun!
Mains: Rashad White and Jamilah Carver – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I think this stands alone
Basic plot:
Jamilah is trying to make her restaurant succeed and she’s in desperate need for a chef – enter Rashad, a former convict looking to start a new life in Missouri.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- Missouri setting
- restaurant owner heroine
- chef hero
- he’s a former convict and her father is a cop with some prejudices to work through
- slower burn – it takes awhile for them to fall into a relationship, but there’s decent tension building in the first half!
- medium steam – don’t quote me because I didn’t take notes this time but I think there was 2 full scenes along with some kisses and mentions of evenings together
Ages:
- oof I meant to note this because I know the heroine was said – I want to say she’s like 29? close to 30. Didn’t catch hero but would guess a bit older?
First line:
Jamilah turned up the volume on the r&b streaming channel, and bobbed her head to the upbeat music as she crossed the kitchen floor.
My thoughts:
I was really excited to read this one – the title and cover and the synopsis sounded really fun. And there was still a lot I liked about this novel – I really loved both mains and was rooting for them the whole book. I loved how everything seemed to pull together by the end, even things that I thought were just minor came back in to wrap up by the end (like his one night stand).
I think maybe I struggled a bit because I had in my head this book was going to be a bit different? Maybe it was more...like somber than I was expecting? I don’t know. I loved how real they were with each other and the vulnerable factors that came in. Rashad with his boundaries about people making assumptions about him and teaching Jamilah about respect and Jamilah had a lot of work to do with some of her biases and wanting to control the outcome of every situation. I loved that this was showcased as a part of their relationship – but it also had a really slow start and then I felt like Jamilah was repeatedly asking for fogiveness and towards the end still had similar doubts so I found that frustrationg.
I really loved the ending of the story and how they both were succeeding even with everything stacked up against them. The book did feel long to me and I was surprised when I looked at the page count that it was like 100 pages longer...maybe it was my interest waning. But overall I really liked Day’s writing and would try again!
I LOVED J Shani Michaels narration. It’s rare that I am like ‘they did every voice perfect’ as well as a good general narration but I felt like that with her. Would love to listen to more audiobooks with them narrating – it was a treat!
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
2.5 ⭐️
The best part of this book was Rashad, hands down. I listened to the audiobook and for the most part, I did enjoy it. Jamilah, though? She kinda worked my nerves. First off, I really thought she was like 37, then halfway through she says she’s not even 30. I was confused. I get that her dad sheltered her and he’s a cop, but when Rashad said something like “beautifully melanated” and she was like “huh?” I had to side-eye that. Like girl… how do you not know what melanated means? I definitely had a few side-eye moments reading this. Honestly, Rashad deserved better.
The best part of this book was Rashad, hands down. I listened to the audiobook and for the most part, I did enjoy it. Jamilah, though? She kinda worked my nerves. First off, I really thought she was like 37, then halfway through she says she’s not even 30. I was confused. I get that her dad sheltered her and he’s a cop, but when Rashad said something like “beautifully melanated” and she was like “huh?” I had to side-eye that. Like girl… how do you not know what melanated means? I definitely had a few side-eye moments reading this. Honestly, Rashad deserved better.
December 29, 2025
ARC & ALC Review
📚 Book Title: Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget
✍🏽Author: Zuri Day
🎙️Narrator: J. Shani Michaels
📕 Format: 📱&🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 = 3.5
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Jamila Carver is a restaurateur of Side Chic’ks and is in the process of revamping her restaurant and finding a new chef.
Rashad White is on parole, recently released from prison. He is an emerging, talented chef with unconventional training.
They come from opposite sides of the tracks, but their shared passion for creating perfect cuisines might be what brings them together.
✨ Tropes:
Workplace Romance
Forbidden Romance
Good Girl X Bad Boy
Opposites Attract
🎭 Narration:
J. Shani Michaels delivered an excellent performance for this novel. She consistently brought each character to life.
⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content warnings):
Controlling Parent
Childhood Parental Abandonment
💭Final Thoughts:
This was a cute story. I appreciated how it highlighted post-prison rehabilitation and efforts to reduce recidivism. The FMC’s father, James Carver, was insufferable! Jamila was also somewhat annoying and bratty at times, and seemed younger than thirty. However, they both demonstrated great character development. On the other hand, I admired Rashad's desire to reinvent himself through rehabilitation and entrepreneurial pursuits! Overall, this was a solid read.
Thanks Net Galley, Harlequin, and Harlequin Audio for the ARC and ALC!
📚 Book Title: Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget
✍🏽Author: Zuri Day
🎙️Narrator: J. Shani Michaels
📕 Format: 📱&🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 = 3.5
🌶 Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
🕑Quick Take:
Jamila Carver is a restaurateur of Side Chic’ks and is in the process of revamping her restaurant and finding a new chef.
Rashad White is on parole, recently released from prison. He is an emerging, talented chef with unconventional training.
They come from opposite sides of the tracks, but their shared passion for creating perfect cuisines might be what brings them together.
✨ Tropes:
Workplace Romance
Forbidden Romance
Good Girl X Bad Boy
Opposites Attract
🎭 Narration:
J. Shani Michaels delivered an excellent performance for this novel. She consistently brought each character to life.
⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content warnings):
Controlling Parent
Childhood Parental Abandonment
💭Final Thoughts:
This was a cute story. I appreciated how it highlighted post-prison rehabilitation and efforts to reduce recidivism. The FMC’s father, James Carver, was insufferable! Jamila was also somewhat annoying and bratty at times, and seemed younger than thirty. However, they both demonstrated great character development. On the other hand, I admired Rashad's desire to reinvent himself through rehabilitation and entrepreneurial pursuits! Overall, this was a solid read.
Thanks Net Galley, Harlequin, and Harlequin Audio for the ARC and ALC!
November 29, 2025
This was a very uniquely written romance from what I’m used to reading. However I have enjoyed reading about Jamilah & Rashad. Their story was nice to read not exactly my style but jamilah was so refreshing in who she was as a person and Rashad also had a nice personality too I liked seeing him aim for better and do better. I just wished we knew what happened with the stalker. That left a little bit of a cliff hanger there but otherwise that really good story and I loved the spicy scenes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2025
This was a fun, cozy romance. I liked the characters and the overall storyline. I feel like there wasn’t enough relationship development for the romance part, that could have been expanded on a bit more to create a better connection.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did an excellent job!
Thank you Net Galley for letting me listen to this arc!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did an excellent job!
Thank you Net Galley for letting me listen to this arc!
January 15, 2026
The sparks were not sparkling. Their romance wasn’t really romantic or swoon worthy. It felt superficial and ambiguous. It made me cringe more than it made me feel connection.
December 30, 2025
This book was full of romance and spice. I appreciate that the FMC and MMC communicate well and after cooling off from misunderstandings, they are able to talk it out and not let issues linger too long. I enjoyed reading the audiobook advanced copy from NetGalley and look forward to reading more books by Zuri Day!
December 10, 2025
ARC REVIEW! Zuri Day absolutely delivers with this one. This is the first book I have read by her in years under this pen name, so I was excited to dive back in and she definitely did not disappoint.
At its core, this story is a workplace romance between a restaurant owner and her chef with clear boss and employee tension. We have strait laced, sheltered Jamilah and reformed ex con Rashad. Rashad leaves the West Coast and moves to the Midwest to truly start over after being released from prison for the second time. One more strike and he is locked up for good. While incarcerated, he discovers his love for cooking and is now trying to build a legitimate life as a chef.
Meanwhile, Jamilah is barely holding things together. Her longtime chef and friend quits on her, her restaurant is already struggling because new competition moves in next door, and business is slowly declining. She is overwhelmed, desperate, and running out of options which is exactly how Rashad ends up in her kitchen. She needs help. He needs a chance.
This is truly an opposites attract romance. And I will be honest. I really was not a fan of Jamilah for most of the book. She often came off entitled and judgmental. She was raised only by her father, who works in law enforcement, and she is very much a sheltered daddy’s girl who moves in ways that center pleasing him. Even though there is instant attraction between her and Rashad and it is clear she would not mind getting physical with him, she lacks trust and faith in him for the majority of the story. Because this is told in third person, we know her thoughts and that honestly made it even harder for me to fully support her. For most of the book, she lacked real character growth in my opinion.
Her father is also incredibly controlling and repeatedly threatens to pull his funding and financial support if she keeps Rashad on staff which adds another heavy layer of pressure. Rashad, on the other hand, completely stole the show for me. Despite everything he has been through, he never lets doubt or fear stop him from dreaming or moving forward. He refuses to go backward, stays determined, and ultimately it is his consistency, work ethic, and connection that end up saving Jamilah’s business. His character growth was very clear and really satisfying to watch.
Another layer I loved was his passion for rap. I appreciated that Zuri Day did not make this a competing priority or let it overshadow the main romance. Instead, it felt like an authentic form of expression for a man like Rashad, someone who is often overlooked, underestimated, and not fully appreciated. That detail added real depth to his character.
This is also an open door romance, so yes, there is spice. The story has its fair share of heat and drama, but overall it is actually a pretty smooth, well balanced read. I also really enjoyed the supporting cast because they helped make the story feel more fleshed out and layered beyond just the main couple.
Beyond the romance, this book definitely had me thinking and reevaluating how we as a society view men and women who go through the system. Sometimes people are truly dealt a bad deck of cards, yet they are forever held to their biggest mistakes. Rashad’s story in particular really highlighted that.
Overall, this was a truly good read for me. The story worked, Rashad carried the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and for the advance reading copy.
At its core, this story is a workplace romance between a restaurant owner and her chef with clear boss and employee tension. We have strait laced, sheltered Jamilah and reformed ex con Rashad. Rashad leaves the West Coast and moves to the Midwest to truly start over after being released from prison for the second time. One more strike and he is locked up for good. While incarcerated, he discovers his love for cooking and is now trying to build a legitimate life as a chef.
Meanwhile, Jamilah is barely holding things together. Her longtime chef and friend quits on her, her restaurant is already struggling because new competition moves in next door, and business is slowly declining. She is overwhelmed, desperate, and running out of options which is exactly how Rashad ends up in her kitchen. She needs help. He needs a chance.
This is truly an opposites attract romance. And I will be honest. I really was not a fan of Jamilah for most of the book. She often came off entitled and judgmental. She was raised only by her father, who works in law enforcement, and she is very much a sheltered daddy’s girl who moves in ways that center pleasing him. Even though there is instant attraction between her and Rashad and it is clear she would not mind getting physical with him, she lacks trust and faith in him for the majority of the story. Because this is told in third person, we know her thoughts and that honestly made it even harder for me to fully support her. For most of the book, she lacked real character growth in my opinion.
Her father is also incredibly controlling and repeatedly threatens to pull his funding and financial support if she keeps Rashad on staff which adds another heavy layer of pressure. Rashad, on the other hand, completely stole the show for me. Despite everything he has been through, he never lets doubt or fear stop him from dreaming or moving forward. He refuses to go backward, stays determined, and ultimately it is his consistency, work ethic, and connection that end up saving Jamilah’s business. His character growth was very clear and really satisfying to watch.
Another layer I loved was his passion for rap. I appreciated that Zuri Day did not make this a competing priority or let it overshadow the main romance. Instead, it felt like an authentic form of expression for a man like Rashad, someone who is often overlooked, underestimated, and not fully appreciated. That detail added real depth to his character.
This is also an open door romance, so yes, there is spice. The story has its fair share of heat and drama, but overall it is actually a pretty smooth, well balanced read. I also really enjoyed the supporting cast because they helped make the story feel more fleshed out and layered beyond just the main couple.
Beyond the romance, this book definitely had me thinking and reevaluating how we as a society view men and women who go through the system. Sometimes people are truly dealt a bad deck of cards, yet they are forever held to their biggest mistakes. Rashad’s story in particular really highlighted that.
Overall, this was a truly good read for me. The story worked, Rashad carried the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and for the advance reading copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much Harlequin Romance and Netgalley for this e-arc copy of Champagne taste on a Bad Boys Budget!
This story had all the Slow burn opposite attract goodness that you could want plus banter for days! It wasn't just a typical workplace Romance for me either, to me it felt like it highlighted how quick we are to judge people based on our own experiences and ignore theirs. As well as how important it is to have a dream and not give up until you reach your goals!
I love that both Jamilah and Rashad had to learn to check this own egos and also think twice about each other's life experience when balancing working together and being together.
Jamilah is so used to running a tight ship, and Rashad has dealt with being ordered around and is officially over it. He pushes back against her and it's so new for her she has to completely reevaluate everything.
Rashad was such a fun character and I liked how quickly he was able to switch from his street smart personality to someone whose more than a rap sheet, he's deep and thoughtful and thinks before he moves. And I appreciated the way Jamilah was willing to open her views on things and not let her fathers jilted view of Rashad to get in the way of their relationship and actually acknowledged where she was wrong on judging him..
Favorite Quotes:
A hot pot like this could only simmer so long before it boiled all the way over.
“So she’s a chic side chick.”
“You got it.”
“I’d say that’s false advertising.”
“Why?”
“Because I can’t see you ever playing second fiddle in anybody’s band.”
Heart Whipped. Mind Stripped. Life Ripped. I’m like wow. No Fear. False Evidence. It’s not Real. I know that now. What’s on my mind is a sign what I’m thinkin ‘bout Your forever man, time to meet the fam, let’s plan a trip to Granny’s house.”
This story had all the Slow burn opposite attract goodness that you could want plus banter for days! It wasn't just a typical workplace Romance for me either, to me it felt like it highlighted how quick we are to judge people based on our own experiences and ignore theirs. As well as how important it is to have a dream and not give up until you reach your goals!
I love that both Jamilah and Rashad had to learn to check this own egos and also think twice about each other's life experience when balancing working together and being together.
Jamilah is so used to running a tight ship, and Rashad has dealt with being ordered around and is officially over it. He pushes back against her and it's so new for her she has to completely reevaluate everything.
Rashad was such a fun character and I liked how quickly he was able to switch from his street smart personality to someone whose more than a rap sheet, he's deep and thoughtful and thinks before he moves. And I appreciated the way Jamilah was willing to open her views on things and not let her fathers jilted view of Rashad to get in the way of their relationship and actually acknowledged where she was wrong on judging him..
Favorite Quotes:
A hot pot like this could only simmer so long before it boiled all the way over.
“So she’s a chic side chick.”
“You got it.”
“I’d say that’s false advertising.”
“Why?”
“Because I can’t see you ever playing second fiddle in anybody’s band.”
Heart Whipped. Mind Stripped. Life Ripped. I’m like wow. No Fear. False Evidence. It’s not Real. I know that now. What’s on my mind is a sign what I’m thinkin ‘bout Your forever man, time to meet the fam, let’s plan a trip to Granny’s house.”
December 21, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and Afterglow Books by Harlequin, for the advance reader copy.
"He was good enough to work for her, but not to work with her, peer to peer."
This quote from the book pretty much sums up the book. This was a very stereotypical read. You have a Jamilah, a sheltered woman, who's struggling to keep her business open. When her head cook quits suddenly, she finds herself in dire straits. Rashad, a talented, unconventional, trained chef, served three years in prison for a crime that wasn't his fault. They meet at a dinner party, and this is where our story begins.
From the beginning, even before Jamilah knew his past, she judged him and refused to give him credit for the work. She thought his food was amazing, but instead would tell him it ok, in an effort to deflate his ego. She also grew up with an overprotective and judgmental father. Which caused her to be that way. Despite her upbringing and her father's protest, she decides to take a chance on Rashad anyway. However, she didn't make it easy, constantly challenged him and his ability, and wanted to sleep with him. At times during the book, it seemed like all she wanted to do was sleep with him.
Reading how out of touch Jamilah was with her Blackness was uncomfortable to read. I will say that after Rashad constantly proved himself, she did start to believe in him. I was proud of her for standing her ground with her dad and making decisions that were good for her and her business.
Overall, I thought this book was ok. There were some really good highlights and themes in the book. This was an easy read for me, and once I picked it up, I didn't put it down. I wasn't overwhelmingly impressed, but I wasn't bored to tears.
"He was good enough to work for her, but not to work with her, peer to peer."
This quote from the book pretty much sums up the book. This was a very stereotypical read. You have a Jamilah, a sheltered woman, who's struggling to keep her business open. When her head cook quits suddenly, she finds herself in dire straits. Rashad, a talented, unconventional, trained chef, served three years in prison for a crime that wasn't his fault. They meet at a dinner party, and this is where our story begins.
From the beginning, even before Jamilah knew his past, she judged him and refused to give him credit for the work. She thought his food was amazing, but instead would tell him it ok, in an effort to deflate his ego. She also grew up with an overprotective and judgmental father. Which caused her to be that way. Despite her upbringing and her father's protest, she decides to take a chance on Rashad anyway. However, she didn't make it easy, constantly challenged him and his ability, and wanted to sleep with him. At times during the book, it seemed like all she wanted to do was sleep with him.
Reading how out of touch Jamilah was with her Blackness was uncomfortable to read. I will say that after Rashad constantly proved himself, she did start to believe in him. I was proud of her for standing her ground with her dad and making decisions that were good for her and her business.
Overall, I thought this book was ok. There were some really good highlights and themes in the book. This was an easy read for me, and once I picked it up, I didn't put it down. I wasn't overwhelmingly impressed, but I wasn't bored to tears.
December 12, 2025
many thanks and gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher, Harper Collins/Harper Audio, for providing me with an early audiobook copy of Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget by Zuri Day in exchange for my thoughts and honest review.
this was a charming, thoughtful, and spicy romance! excellently narrated by J. Shani Michaels, this story follows Jamilah Carver, a restaurant owner who is faced with potentially losing the dream she has worked hard to establish. after her chef resigns, Jamilah is desperate to find a replacement. enter Rashad, a man who wants his release from prison to be the fresh start toward his own dreams of being a professional chef. when he is given the opportunity to cater a birthday dinner, he not only wows the guests but also lands a job…
i enjoyed this audiobook! not only was the story engaging and filled with delicious sounding dishes, but it was also a slow burn romance with themes of second chances and taking risks. i love that Rashad made the choice to leave his old life in California behind to pursue a life that he knew he was capable of living. unfortunately, the world isn’t always so kind to people who have served time in prison; i appreciate how this issue was woven into the story, without being heavy handed. i also love that Jamilah was able to learn more about herself and her own biases. both characters develop and grow as individuals and their romantic relationship subsequently follows. i do think this aspect of the story could have been stronger, but overall, i was happy with how it all turned out.
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget will be published on December 30, 2025.
this was a charming, thoughtful, and spicy romance! excellently narrated by J. Shani Michaels, this story follows Jamilah Carver, a restaurant owner who is faced with potentially losing the dream she has worked hard to establish. after her chef resigns, Jamilah is desperate to find a replacement. enter Rashad, a man who wants his release from prison to be the fresh start toward his own dreams of being a professional chef. when he is given the opportunity to cater a birthday dinner, he not only wows the guests but also lands a job…
i enjoyed this audiobook! not only was the story engaging and filled with delicious sounding dishes, but it was also a slow burn romance with themes of second chances and taking risks. i love that Rashad made the choice to leave his old life in California behind to pursue a life that he knew he was capable of living. unfortunately, the world isn’t always so kind to people who have served time in prison; i appreciate how this issue was woven into the story, without being heavy handed. i also love that Jamilah was able to learn more about herself and her own biases. both characters develop and grow as individuals and their romantic relationship subsequently follows. i do think this aspect of the story could have been stronger, but overall, i was happy with how it all turned out.
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget will be published on December 30, 2025.
January 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars) Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget unfolds like a slow, deliberate simmer—never rushed, never careless, allowing emotion, tension, and connection to build in layers. Zuri Day’s writing is warm and assured, grounding the romance in lived-in realities while still delivering banter, heat, and heart. Jamilah and Rashad are shaped by very different histories, and the story honors that divide rather than smoothing it over; his life after incarceration and her entanglement with a controlling, fear-driven father create a quiet but persistent pressure that informs every choice they make. Rashad’s arc is especially resonant, capturing both the exhaustion and resolve of someone determined to be more than his past, while Jamilah’s journey toward self-trust and autonomy feels messy, frustrating, and ultimately earned. The restaurant setting becomes more than a backdrop—it’s a shared language, a place where creativity, trust, and intimacy take root, and where their chemistry ignites with a natural, unforced heat. The audiobook experience deepens that intimacy, with J. Shani Michaels delivering a fluid, expressive performance that carries the emotional undercurrents just as effectively as the dialogue, drawing out the tenderness, the longing, and the simmering desire between the characters. While a duet narration might have added an extra layer to Rashad’s perspective, the strength of the writing and the immersive quality of the performance made this a compelling, cinematic listen from start to finish. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the advance listener copy—this was a romance that lingered, thoughtful and sensual, long after the final chapter.
November 14, 2025
Thank you to Zuri Day, NetGalley, and Harlequin for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First off, the cover is adorable! It’s definitely one that would catch my eye while browsing.
Jamilah and Rashad couldn’t be more opposite: she’s a buttoned-up, sheltered do-gooder, while he’s a misunderstood ex-con trying to rebuild his life. What ultimately brings them together is food — and that shared passion sparks something stronger than either expected.
Rashad has big dreams, and Jamilah has immediate needs. She needs his help to save her restaurant on the verge of closing, and he needs a steady job to satisfy his parole requirements. It’s a win-win… or is it? Especially when her father, a police officer, makes things even more complicated.
Rashad helps Jamilah see beyond her privilege and knocks down her walls of scrutiny. Their kitchen chemistry quickly heats up, but the story also dives into forgiveness and growth, with Rashad learning to forgive Jamilah.
In the end, they do get their happily ever after, though some parts of the story felt a bit flat and didn’t always flow smoothly. Still, I enjoyed this quick, heartfelt read about love, redemption, and chasing what sets your soul on fire. While this isn’t written in my usual format of romance, it’s still very much my kind of story, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys an opposites-attract journey with a meaningful message.
This was my first Zuri Day book, and I look forward to reading more from her!
First off, the cover is adorable! It’s definitely one that would catch my eye while browsing.
Jamilah and Rashad couldn’t be more opposite: she’s a buttoned-up, sheltered do-gooder, while he’s a misunderstood ex-con trying to rebuild his life. What ultimately brings them together is food — and that shared passion sparks something stronger than either expected.
Rashad has big dreams, and Jamilah has immediate needs. She needs his help to save her restaurant on the verge of closing, and he needs a steady job to satisfy his parole requirements. It’s a win-win… or is it? Especially when her father, a police officer, makes things even more complicated.
Rashad helps Jamilah see beyond her privilege and knocks down her walls of scrutiny. Their kitchen chemistry quickly heats up, but the story also dives into forgiveness and growth, with Rashad learning to forgive Jamilah.
In the end, they do get their happily ever after, though some parts of the story felt a bit flat and didn’t always flow smoothly. Still, I enjoyed this quick, heartfelt read about love, redemption, and chasing what sets your soul on fire. While this isn’t written in my usual format of romance, it’s still very much my kind of story, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys an opposites-attract journey with a meaningful message.
This was my first Zuri Day book, and I look forward to reading more from her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2025
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget has a lot of good ideas, but fell rather flat in execution. The characters are strong, but as a romance, it never really comes together.
When I saw Rashad was an ex-con, I was intrigued, and while his background isn’t super fleshed out in that regard, I respect the way he was treated more or less with respect, with a focus on him getting back on his feet.
I had more mixed feelings about Jamilah. She was fine as a character, and the relationship with her cop dad due to her mom’s passing provided an interesting complicating factor for the romance and working relationship, which ended up coming into play in the third-act conflict.
And the romance overall just fell very flat. I didn’t really feel much in the way of chemistry between the two, so I struggled to really care about them together.
And I feel like, with their backgrounds as opposing purposes with one another, fleshing them out in a longer story would have been beneficial. However, I would also really need to see a sense that their chemistry together could persist in spite of that, and as it is, the one thing that got me through it was it being shorter and faster paced.
While I wasn’t wowed by it, and it seems others weren’t either, that’s not shocking to me as the Afterglow line has been very hit-or-miss for me. But if you tend to come to the line for a fun short read, and don’t expect much more than that, perhaps you might enjoy it more than I did.
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget has a lot of good ideas, but fell rather flat in execution. The characters are strong, but as a romance, it never really comes together.
When I saw Rashad was an ex-con, I was intrigued, and while his background isn’t super fleshed out in that regard, I respect the way he was treated more or less with respect, with a focus on him getting back on his feet.
I had more mixed feelings about Jamilah. She was fine as a character, and the relationship with her cop dad due to her mom’s passing provided an interesting complicating factor for the romance and working relationship, which ended up coming into play in the third-act conflict.
And the romance overall just fell very flat. I didn’t really feel much in the way of chemistry between the two, so I struggled to really care about them together.
And I feel like, with their backgrounds as opposing purposes with one another, fleshing them out in a longer story would have been beneficial. However, I would also really need to see a sense that their chemistry together could persist in spite of that, and as it is, the one thing that got me through it was it being shorter and faster paced.
While I wasn’t wowed by it, and it seems others weren’t either, that’s not shocking to me as the Afterglow line has been very hit-or-miss for me. But if you tend to come to the line for a fun short read, and don’t expect much more than that, perhaps you might enjoy it more than I did.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
💜 Blurb -
She's a good girl trying to rebuild her restaurant.
He's a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.
For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.
With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.
Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?
💛 Review -
This was such a cute and easy to follow read. I loved the restaurant place setting in the story. I found the story fun and easy to follow with good pacing and short chapters which made for easy reading. I loved Jamilha and Rashad's slow burn spicy chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Blogger HQ/ HQ Stories and the author Zuri Day for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
She's a good girl trying to rebuild her restaurant.
He's a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.
For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.
With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.
Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?
💛 Review -
This was such a cute and easy to follow read. I loved the restaurant place setting in the story. I found the story fun and easy to follow with good pacing and short chapters which made for easy reading. I loved Jamilha and Rashad's slow burn spicy chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Blogger HQ/ HQ Stories and the author Zuri Day for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jamilah has been hustling to make her restaurant dreams come true but when her cook suddenly leaves her in a lurch, she’s hard pressed to find the perfect replacement on short notice. Then Rashad White comes along like the hot answer to her prayers. But her cop daddy isn’t a fan of the ex-con and their mutual attraction is highly inconvenient for the play by the books Jamilah. Can she turn her back on her dad’s prejudices and her own preconceived notions?
This was my first listen from Zuri Day and it won’t be my last. I really loved the fmc as the hustling entrepreneur stuck between a rock and a hard place. Her heart was in the right place and I was cheering her on when she stood up to her dad.
Rashad was such a nuanced mmc and I’m glad we got to see so much of the book from his perspective. It’s one thing to know intellectually how difficult it can be for ex-cons to get a fair shake in the world, it’s another thing to see it all go down through his eyes. It would have been so easy for him to give up but he kept on his hustle and dreamed big which helped level up his life and Jamilah’s too.
And food isn’t the only thing spicy in the kitchen. There’s plenty of spicy scenes turning up the heat in this one.
The only thing I didn’t love was the OW drama and how all that went down. At least we didn’t have to sit through an OW spicy scene but the aftermath still gave me the icks. But that’s really just a personal issue for me.
You should pick this one up if you love a strong fmc who comes into her own, an underdog mmc who you will fall and root for in equal measures, a restaurant you wish you could visit in real life and some seriously hot spicy scenes.
Thanks so much to @htpbooks_audio and @haveazuriday for providing my with an ALC via @netgalley 💕
December 30, 2025
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is a romance story where we meet Jamilah Carver, a restaurant owner, struggling to find a chef and work to get her establishment out of mounting debt. Enter ex-con Rashad White, who has the culinary skills to rival some of the best chefs in the state. As these two interact, they continue but heads except when it comes to their love of food. They also cannot help the “attraction” that simmers between them every time they are in a room together. However, with her family and his record, drama will arise that will cause conflict and miscommunication in this budding relationship.
Zuri Day continues to weave stories by creating characters that readers can relate to that are either likeable or not. Day has done a great job with character development. Jamilah was portrayed as an independent woman, however when she faced challenges she would go immediately fallback to her failsafe and that was not always to her advantage. Rashad was determined to not allow his past to shape his future and worked hard to build avenues to ensure he stayed focused. He also realized he wanted to help Jamilah as well as pursue more with her. I felt this story was more a slow-burn romance.
Note: I received an advanced copy from NetGalley
Audio version Review:
J. Shani Michaels did a good job narrating this unabridged version. She was able to change her voice to clearly distinguish between primary and secondary characters. The story flowed and there were no grammatical errors or pauses.
Note: I received an advanced audio copy from NetGalley
Zuri Day continues to weave stories by creating characters that readers can relate to that are either likeable or not. Day has done a great job with character development. Jamilah was portrayed as an independent woman, however when she faced challenges she would go immediately fallback to her failsafe and that was not always to her advantage. Rashad was determined to not allow his past to shape his future and worked hard to build avenues to ensure he stayed focused. He also realized he wanted to help Jamilah as well as pursue more with her. I felt this story was more a slow-burn romance.
Note: I received an advanced copy from NetGalley
Audio version Review:
J. Shani Michaels did a good job narrating this unabridged version. She was able to change her voice to clearly distinguish between primary and secondary characters. The story flowed and there were no grammatical errors or pauses.
Note: I received an advanced audio copy from NetGalley
December 30, 2025
CHAMPAGNE TASTE ON A BAD BOY BUDGET (REVIEW): Meaningful, creative, and such a relaxing read!
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget
by Zuri Day
MY Synopsis: Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget by Zuri Day is a bit of a handful of a title, but the book most definitely isn't! The book is a standalone and a great read when you need to unwind. Following Jamilah Carver and Rashad White the book explores the struggles of a newly released ex con and making a life after lock up. Additionally, the FMC Jamilah comes from a cop dad, who she struggles to gain independence from. Jamilah and Rashad have great banter and a bond, contributing to insane chemistry. How will the two juggle their new relationship, but working relationship? Only way to find out is to read on! The oil on the pan isn't the only thing these two cooks have sizzling.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5.0)
- Great premise. Super unique, never read anything like it. It has depth and brings a new vibe to romance.
- Good balance of exploring real world issues and being a relaxing read.
- Felt like REAL people. Authentic language and behaviors. No one feels perfect like most authors write their characters. And lines didn't stand out as trying too hard.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️(2/3)
- Even the fantasying is spicy!
- Emotional depth, tender relationship.
- Instant attraction in the best way.
ACCESS: Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC <3
CLOSING COMMENTS:
- This is my first read by Zuri Day, but it most definitely won't be my last!
*You can find me on Instagram @rhiannonreads24.7*
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget
by Zuri Day
MY Synopsis: Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget by Zuri Day is a bit of a handful of a title, but the book most definitely isn't! The book is a standalone and a great read when you need to unwind. Following Jamilah Carver and Rashad White the book explores the struggles of a newly released ex con and making a life after lock up. Additionally, the FMC Jamilah comes from a cop dad, who she struggles to gain independence from. Jamilah and Rashad have great banter and a bond, contributing to insane chemistry. How will the two juggle their new relationship, but working relationship? Only way to find out is to read on! The oil on the pan isn't the only thing these two cooks have sizzling.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5.0)
- Great premise. Super unique, never read anything like it. It has depth and brings a new vibe to romance.
- Good balance of exploring real world issues and being a relaxing read.
- Felt like REAL people. Authentic language and behaviors. No one feels perfect like most authors write their characters. And lines didn't stand out as trying too hard.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️(2/3)
- Even the fantasying is spicy!
- Emotional depth, tender relationship.
- Instant attraction in the best way.
ACCESS: Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC <3
CLOSING COMMENTS:
- This is my first read by Zuri Day, but it most definitely won't be my last!
*You can find me on Instagram @rhiannonreads24.7*
September 26, 2025
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is such a fun, messy, and sweet romance. Jamilah is this ambitious, by the book restaurant owner whose dream is crumbling fast because she has debt piling up, her chef gone, and everything is on the line. Enter Rashad, a freshly released ex con who just happens to be ridiculously talented in the kitchen… and absolutely terrible at following rules.
From the jump, their dynamic is fire. They bicker, clash, and push each other’s buttons nonstop, but underneath all that tension is undeniable chemistry. What I loved most is how their relationship isn’t just about attraction, but I felt like it was about growth, for both of them in different ways. Jamilah has to loosen her grip on control, and Rashad has to prove he’s more than his past. Together, they find this beautiful middle ground that feels very real and the payoff is worth it.
The food details are such a treat too! You can practically smell the spices and hear the pans sizzling. The kitchen becomes their battleground and their love language, which made the whole story feel alive. As a big foodie, I loved these details because I felt my love for food and my love for romance coming together in such a unique and special way.
This book isn’t just good girl meets bad boy, but it’s about second chances, taking risks, and finding love where you least expect it. I really enjoyed this book!
Thank you to NetGalley, Zuri Day, and Afterglow Books for the eARC of this book.
From the jump, their dynamic is fire. They bicker, clash, and push each other’s buttons nonstop, but underneath all that tension is undeniable chemistry. What I loved most is how their relationship isn’t just about attraction, but I felt like it was about growth, for both of them in different ways. Jamilah has to loosen her grip on control, and Rashad has to prove he’s more than his past. Together, they find this beautiful middle ground that feels very real and the payoff is worth it.
The food details are such a treat too! You can practically smell the spices and hear the pans sizzling. The kitchen becomes their battleground and their love language, which made the whole story feel alive. As a big foodie, I loved these details because I felt my love for food and my love for romance coming together in such a unique and special way.
This book isn’t just good girl meets bad boy, but it’s about second chances, taking risks, and finding love where you least expect it. I really enjoyed this book!
Thank you to NetGalley, Zuri Day, and Afterglow Books for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Champagne Taste on a Bad Boy Budget is the story of Jamilah and Rashad, and is an opposites-attract spicy workplace romance. Jamilah is thrilled to own her own restaurant, but is facing financial issues and has lost her head chef. Enter Rashad, an ex-con trying to start over and find professional success using his extensive culinary skills. Jamilah needs a chef, and he needs a job.
Jamilah and Rashad are like oil and water. They have physical chemistry, but I had a hard time with the rest of their relationship. Jamilah doesn’t treat Rashad as her equal. She is judgmental and I just did not feel a connection between these two characters. I also had a hard time getting to “know” the main characters, as the author’s voice was not consistent throughout the story. It didn’t feel like these characters had a cohesive story arc -almost like she was describing different people.
I enjoyed Rashad’s story of redemption, and his fight to start over after being in prison as a young man. This is not a character type that we see often in romance, and I really appreciated how respectfully the author handles Rashad’s story. The slow burn nature of Jamilah and Rashad’s relationship did add some tension, but overall their romance fell flat for me.
Thank you to Zuri Day, Afterglow Books by Harlequin, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Jamilah and Rashad are like oil and water. They have physical chemistry, but I had a hard time with the rest of their relationship. Jamilah doesn’t treat Rashad as her equal. She is judgmental and I just did not feel a connection between these two characters. I also had a hard time getting to “know” the main characters, as the author’s voice was not consistent throughout the story. It didn’t feel like these characters had a cohesive story arc -almost like she was describing different people.
I enjoyed Rashad’s story of redemption, and his fight to start over after being in prison as a young man. This is not a character type that we see often in romance, and I really appreciated how respectfully the author handles Rashad’s story. The slow burn nature of Jamilah and Rashad’s relationship did add some tension, but overall their romance fell flat for me.
Thank you to Zuri Day, Afterglow Books by Harlequin, and NetGalley for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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