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Hawthorne Brothers #3
How to Kiss Your Enemy
How is it possible for the chemistry between two chefs to be hotter than a ghost pepper yet colder than liquid nitrogen?
When THE Tatum Elliott shows up to run the catering kitchen at my family’s farm and event center, I don’t trust her anymore than I did back in culinary school.
But like it or not, she’s here. On my territory. My turf. In the kitchen that shares a building with my farm-to-table restaurant.
And she can’t seem to keep her hands off my parmesan.
Our old rivalry flares to life faster than a flambé, but there’s something else flaming between us too. And it’s heating up quicker than anything we’re making in the kitchen.
But I can’t forget that Tatum is the daughter of Gordon Elliott—America’s most famous chef. She belongs in a big city, in a restaurant with her name on it. Not running the catering arm of Stonebrook Farm.
Whatever her reasons for being here now, I can’t see her permanently walking away from the fame and fortune her father can offer her, no matter how well she fits in on the farm—how well she fits with me.
She’ll leave eventually—I’m sure of it. I just have to make sure that when she does, she doesn’t take my heart with her.
It’s enemies to lovers foodie edition in this fast-paced, banter-filled romcom from bestselling author, Jenny Proctor.
How to Kiss Your Enemy is a sweet romantic comedy with all the crackling chemistry and sizzling kisses you want in a closed-door romance but no explicit scenes.
When THE Tatum Elliott shows up to run the catering kitchen at my family’s farm and event center, I don’t trust her anymore than I did back in culinary school.
But like it or not, she’s here. On my territory. My turf. In the kitchen that shares a building with my farm-to-table restaurant.
And she can’t seem to keep her hands off my parmesan.
Our old rivalry flares to life faster than a flambé, but there’s something else flaming between us too. And it’s heating up quicker than anything we’re making in the kitchen.
But I can’t forget that Tatum is the daughter of Gordon Elliott—America’s most famous chef. She belongs in a big city, in a restaurant with her name on it. Not running the catering arm of Stonebrook Farm.
Whatever her reasons for being here now, I can’t see her permanently walking away from the fame and fortune her father can offer her, no matter how well she fits in on the farm—how well she fits with me.
She’ll leave eventually—I’m sure of it. I just have to make sure that when she does, she doesn’t take my heart with her.
It’s enemies to lovers foodie edition in this fast-paced, banter-filled romcom from bestselling author, Jenny Proctor.
How to Kiss Your Enemy is a sweet romantic comedy with all the crackling chemistry and sizzling kisses you want in a closed-door romance but no explicit scenes.
Audiobook
First published May 2, 2023
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About the author
Jenny Proctor
39 books2,164 followersJenny Proctor is an award-winning author of more than fourteen romantic comedies and an Amazon bestseller. She began her career in publishing in 2013; her writing has been a constant since then, but she's also spent time as the owner and managing editor of Midnight Owl Editors and the chair of the Storymakers Conference. Wired for relationships, Jenny loves public speaking, teaching, and building lasting connections.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 787 reviews
December 9, 2025
4.5 Stars!!
Warning. This is seriously rated G to the max and tho it’s a lot unbelievable in this day and age of sexual freedom and expression, and though I would’ve greatly appreciated some explicit, I didn’t really miss it. Much. Proctor has richly drawn this group of brothers so well that it’s hard not to fall for each of them as they appeal on their own merits in very different, very sexy ways.
Here, Lennox grapples with his sworn enemy from culinary school working at his family’s classy farm and event center. He and Tatum were hardcore rivals, and animosity runs high on both ends but close quarters definitely shines a light on aspects of the other that neither have ever seen before. Competitive resentment slowly turns into grudging respect, fueled by some yummy palpable attraction.
What I appreciate so much about this series so far are the female characters. They’re not shrill or stupid or petty or wishy washy or run from their problems. They’re strong in their own right but have real insecurities and hang ups like we all do and each tries to find their way through life and love. Tatum has only lived in the shadow of her famous father, and she must decide if she should support his ambition or move onto cultivating her own.
What I don’t want you to think is that just because this is a closed door romance, that this is a boring read. For me, the chemistry’s wonderful, the humor’s spot on, the swoon’s pitch perfect. Lennox is confident sexy charming but caring and considerate, all tangled with his own worries and vulnerabilities. It doesn’t hurt that this also appealed to my foodie alter ego with all the tasty descriptions you could ask for, and the fabulous supporting cast continues to love each other while also doling out entertaining reality checks to those who need it, especially when they don’t want it.
What also made this book so fabulous is that there’s no 3rd act break up at 80% because I absolutely hate when that happens. Just know that these Hawthorne brothers are amazing, and Lennox here just nudged his brother Brody (from How to Kiss Your Best Friend) out of first place. It remains to be seen if younger bro, Hollywood heartthrob Flint, can claim the gold medal in the upcoming last book. I can’t wait!
Hawthorne Brothers Series
1. How to Kiss Your Best Friend - 4 Stars
2. How to Kiss Your Grumpy Boss - 4 Stars
3. How to Kiss Your Enemy - 4. 5 Stars
4. How to Kiss a Movie Star - 4 Stars
How to Kiss on Christmas Morning - 3.5 Stars
Love Off Limits (sister Olivia’s story) - 3.5 Stars
Warning. This is seriously rated G to the max and tho it’s a lot unbelievable in this day and age of sexual freedom and expression, and though I would’ve greatly appreciated some explicit, I didn’t really miss it. Much. Proctor has richly drawn this group of brothers so well that it’s hard not to fall for each of them as they appeal on their own merits in very different, very sexy ways.
Here, Lennox grapples with his sworn enemy from culinary school working at his family’s classy farm and event center. He and Tatum were hardcore rivals, and animosity runs high on both ends but close quarters definitely shines a light on aspects of the other that neither have ever seen before. Competitive resentment slowly turns into grudging respect, fueled by some yummy palpable attraction.
What I appreciate so much about this series so far are the female characters. They’re not shrill or stupid or petty or wishy washy or run from their problems. They’re strong in their own right but have real insecurities and hang ups like we all do and each tries to find their way through life and love. Tatum has only lived in the shadow of her famous father, and she must decide if she should support his ambition or move onto cultivating her own.
What I don’t want you to think is that just because this is a closed door romance, that this is a boring read. For me, the chemistry’s wonderful, the humor’s spot on, the swoon’s pitch perfect. Lennox is confident sexy charming but caring and considerate, all tangled with his own worries and vulnerabilities. It doesn’t hurt that this also appealed to my foodie alter ego with all the tasty descriptions you could ask for, and the fabulous supporting cast continues to love each other while also doling out entertaining reality checks to those who need it, especially when they don’t want it.
What also made this book so fabulous is that there’s no 3rd act break up at 80% because I absolutely hate when that happens. Just know that these Hawthorne brothers are amazing, and Lennox here just nudged his brother Brody (from How to Kiss Your Best Friend) out of first place. It remains to be seen if younger bro, Hollywood heartthrob Flint, can claim the gold medal in the upcoming last book. I can’t wait!
Hawthorne Brothers Series
1. How to Kiss Your Best Friend - 4 Stars
2. How to Kiss Your Grumpy Boss - 4 Stars
3. How to Kiss Your Enemy - 4. 5 Stars
4. How to Kiss a Movie Star - 4 Stars
How to Kiss on Christmas Morning - 3.5 Stars
Love Off Limits (sister Olivia’s story) - 3.5 Stars
April 15, 2024
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
How am I giving an enemies to lovers trope 5 stars? It has hilarious banter and humble compliments.
Lennox and Tatum are rivals from culinary school and then she shows up at his family-owned restaurant as the new hire. They banter, throw some insults, but also think the other is pretty cute and maybe they want to help each other in their roles.
Truly, this is a slam dunk. Enemies to Lovers done right in Contemporary fiction. I didn't think it was possible. Dare I say that I got in my feels at the end?! I'm so attached to the Hawthorne family!!
There's no language and they make out but it doesn't lead anywhere.
Highly recommend and now Jenny Proctor is on my must read list.
How am I giving an enemies to lovers trope 5 stars? It has hilarious banter and humble compliments.
Lennox and Tatum are rivals from culinary school and then she shows up at his family-owned restaurant as the new hire. They banter, throw some insults, but also think the other is pretty cute and maybe they want to help each other in their roles.
Truly, this is a slam dunk. Enemies to Lovers done right in Contemporary fiction. I didn't think it was possible. Dare I say that I got in my feels at the end?! I'm so attached to the Hawthorne family!!
There's no language and they make out but it doesn't lead anywhere.
Highly recommend and now Jenny Proctor is on my must read list.
April 22, 2024
”If she’s dreaming, I’m glad it’s about me. Because whether she remembers it or not, my first kiss with Tatum Elliot is something I’m never going to forget.”
Tatum and Lennox went to culinary school together, where they had a rivalry with each other trying to out do each other and be the best in the class. Tatum gets a job to be a cater at Stonebrooke Farm, which turns out Lennox family own the place and Lennox is the head chef of there restaurant.
I love Tatum and Lennox together starting out as enemies and the rivalry from school still playing strong. Until they start to get to know each other and find out what they thought was true wasn't the case and there is more that meets the eye for both of them. I loved the chemistry between the two and you can see just how much they have grown. I liked that there wasn't a break up and that Tatum and Lennox both spoke to each other and had an actual conversation when they were struggling. I just thought their love story was beautifully done.
I loved everything about this book, when I first started I didn't realise it was part of a series (book number 3), I will definitely be going back to read the other books to find out more about the other brothers. You don't have to read in order but I think it definitely helps for more of a backstory.
I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
Tatum and Lennox went to culinary school together, where they had a rivalry with each other trying to out do each other and be the best in the class. Tatum gets a job to be a cater at Stonebrooke Farm, which turns out Lennox family own the place and Lennox is the head chef of there restaurant.
I love Tatum and Lennox together starting out as enemies and the rivalry from school still playing strong. Until they start to get to know each other and find out what they thought was true wasn't the case and there is more that meets the eye for both of them. I loved the chemistry between the two and you can see just how much they have grown. I liked that there wasn't a break up and that Tatum and Lennox both spoke to each other and had an actual conversation when they were struggling. I just thought their love story was beautifully done.
I loved everything about this book, when I first started I didn't realise it was part of a series (book number 3), I will definitely be going back to read the other books to find out more about the other brothers. You don't have to read in order but I think it definitely helps for more of a backstory.
I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
May 23, 2023
It’s been a few millenia since I actually finish a contemporary read, and I blew through this one in the best happy-swoony-romance-reader way!
My first read from this author, and this is definitely the kind of sweet romcom I can get behind: no monologuish telling-not-showing/ cringey forced dialogue, but great, straightforward dual POVs. My expectations were low on the “Enemy” title alluding to an actual Enemies to Love trope, and, yep, it’s actually former academic rivals that squabble over first pick of produce and prick each other’s pride for the first 15%, but it was great. As a historical romance reader always needing some form of escapism, I expected to lean on the farm/restaurant setting and the competence of two talented chefs to help me hang on, and so it was. Loved the setting, loved the professional kitchen dynamic, plus we get a hero who can simultaneously be Mr. Sophisticated Restaurant Owner, Mr. Cooks from His Heart for Family and Mr. Scares off Wild Predators and Hauls off Logs. He’s also Mr. Emotional Maturity so, yeah, Lennox Hawthorne and his mascarpone hot chocolate are keepers.
I stay in the Kissing Only romance lane and prefer heated interactions as longing stares across ballrooms, so my threshold for mentions of physical attraction and use of the term “sexy” is pretty low. There were some instances were this could easily have gone pre-marital closed-door, but, though they are very physically into each other, and it does take up a good chunk of their stream of consciousness, this sticks to non-descriptive make-out sessions, and I found it well balanced with their emotional progression and substantiated feelings. Also they make a great chefy team! Tatum’s crossroads situation arc was so well balanced in finding her own path but also learning to lean on a partner for support and mind-blowing Bolognese. And, speaking of a great team, though I chaos jumped into this third book, the Hawthorne family is great, and there’s nothing like a brothers’ group chat.
I would definitely read more from this author and recommend this for whenever one feels the pull to enter the 21st century and swoon in the present.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Content notes: kissing only, no inappropriate language beyond “freaking”, on page toxic parent, mention of parent loss grief.
My first read from this author, and this is definitely the kind of sweet romcom I can get behind: no monologuish telling-not-showing/ cringey forced dialogue, but great, straightforward dual POVs. My expectations were low on the “Enemy” title alluding to an actual Enemies to Love trope, and, yep, it’s actually former academic rivals that squabble over first pick of produce and prick each other’s pride for the first 15%, but it was great. As a historical romance reader always needing some form of escapism, I expected to lean on the farm/restaurant setting and the competence of two talented chefs to help me hang on, and so it was. Loved the setting, loved the professional kitchen dynamic, plus we get a hero who can simultaneously be Mr. Sophisticated Restaurant Owner, Mr. Cooks from His Heart for Family and Mr. Scares off Wild Predators and Hauls off Logs. He’s also Mr. Emotional Maturity so, yeah, Lennox Hawthorne and his mascarpone hot chocolate are keepers.
I stay in the Kissing Only romance lane and prefer heated interactions as longing stares across ballrooms, so my threshold for mentions of physical attraction and use of the term “sexy” is pretty low. There were some instances were this could easily have gone pre-marital closed-door, but, though they are very physically into each other, and it does take up a good chunk of their stream of consciousness, this sticks to non-descriptive make-out sessions, and I found it well balanced with their emotional progression and substantiated feelings. Also they make a great chefy team! Tatum’s crossroads situation arc was so well balanced in finding her own path but also learning to lean on a partner for support and mind-blowing Bolognese. And, speaking of a great team, though I chaos jumped into this third book, the Hawthorne family is great, and there’s nothing like a brothers’ group chat.
I would definitely read more from this author and recommend this for whenever one feels the pull to enter the 21st century and swoon in the present.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Content notes: kissing only, no inappropriate language beyond “freaking”, on page toxic parent, mention of parent loss grief.
May 12, 2023
Tatum and Lennox attended culinary school together, where they developed a rivalry between themselves in an effort to outperform one another and take first place in the class. Tatum is hired as a caterer at Stonebrooke Farm, which the Lennox family owns and where Lennox is the restaurant's executive chef.
I adore strong character development, and Tatum's story in particular was outstanding, her relationship with Lennox felt authentic and true, and Toby? God he was so cute!
It was really light and quick to read, no major plot twist only swoony moments and good banter. There's nothing I didn't love!!
I would absolutely go back and read the other novels to learn more about the other brothers because I didn't realize it was book number 3 in a series when I first started.
WHAT I LOVED THE MOST:
- The banter
- The FMC has curly hair
- The Group messages between the Hawthorne brothers.
- The friendship/ familial/ and love bonds
I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
I adore strong character development, and Tatum's story in particular was outstanding, her relationship with Lennox felt authentic and true, and Toby? God he was so cute!
It was really light and quick to read, no major plot twist only swoony moments and good banter. There's nothing I didn't love!!
I would absolutely go back and read the other novels to learn more about the other brothers because I didn't realize it was book number 3 in a series when I first started.
WHAT I LOVED THE MOST:
- The banter
- The FMC has curly hair
- The Group messages between the Hawthorne brothers.
- The friendship/ familial/ and love bonds
I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
June 13, 2023
3.5 stars
How to Kiss Your Enemy is the third book in the Hawthorne brothers series! While you can read them all as standalones, its been fun to read them in order and see the familial relationships and interactions build and grow between the characters!
This was a cute quick read with two enemies who are more like rivals, a foodie/chef trope, a quaint family run farm, and competitive energy that turns more into attraction. It was fun to follow these characters as they decide what they want out of life and how to go grab it!
Its got a food filled atmosphere set in the Carolina woods, its got some forced proximity moments with some tender heart to hearts. Low spice, cute and quick to read! If you liked the others in this series I can't see why you wouldn't enjoy this third installment.
Thank you Jenny for my copy! I can't wait to see what you do with the rest of the series!
**no language, kissing only
How to Kiss Your Enemy is the third book in the Hawthorne brothers series! While you can read them all as standalones, its been fun to read them in order and see the familial relationships and interactions build and grow between the characters!
This was a cute quick read with two enemies who are more like rivals, a foodie/chef trope, a quaint family run farm, and competitive energy that turns more into attraction. It was fun to follow these characters as they decide what they want out of life and how to go grab it!
Its got a food filled atmosphere set in the Carolina woods, its got some forced proximity moments with some tender heart to hearts. Low spice, cute and quick to read! If you liked the others in this series I can't see why you wouldn't enjoy this third installment.
Thank you Jenny for my copy! I can't wait to see what you do with the rest of the series!
**no language, kissing only
August 20, 2024
Can I be friends with the Hawthorne’s
Read
September 8, 2025these books just delight me
May 9, 2023
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
WHAT A GEM.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Another wonderful read from one of my favorite go-to closed door romance authors. I loved this!! Lennox and Tatum had this subtle enemy/angst vibe that grew into a beautiful romance and I loved every page.
Forced proximity is my kryptonite so I loved that Lennox and Tatum both worked near each other. It caused moment after moment of them meeting, reconnecting, and both coming to some realizations about how they’ve grown up since knowing each other in culinary school. I love great character growth and Tatum’s story especially was fantastic. I LOVELOVELOVE that she found a way to stand on her own and Lennox supported every step. This is another case of we’re having an argument but not breaking up third act and I am here for it x1000.
There’s plenty of swoony moments. Cooking for each other, snow storms without power, kisses in the office. ALL THERE. I just really loved how this relationship came together. It felt authentic and true. I adored the sweet dog. And I am absolutely IN LOVE with this family!! The conversations and text messages and the way the support is always there.
Another amazing installment in the Hawthorne brother’s series. This had a cozier vibe that I can’t quite nail down but know I FELT that had me snuggled up in a blanket devouring the pages. And now I am STOKED for Flint’s story!!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of loss of a mother, strained father/daughter relationship, gaslighting (not b/t main couple), mentions of past cheating
WHAT A GEM.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Another wonderful read from one of my favorite go-to closed door romance authors. I loved this!! Lennox and Tatum had this subtle enemy/angst vibe that grew into a beautiful romance and I loved every page.
Forced proximity is my kryptonite so I loved that Lennox and Tatum both worked near each other. It caused moment after moment of them meeting, reconnecting, and both coming to some realizations about how they’ve grown up since knowing each other in culinary school. I love great character growth and Tatum’s story especially was fantastic. I LOVELOVELOVE that she found a way to stand on her own and Lennox supported every step. This is another case of we’re having an argument but not breaking up third act and I am here for it x1000.
There’s plenty of swoony moments. Cooking for each other, snow storms without power, kisses in the office. ALL THERE. I just really loved how this relationship came together. It felt authentic and true. I adored the sweet dog. And I am absolutely IN LOVE with this family!! The conversations and text messages and the way the support is always there.
Another amazing installment in the Hawthorne brother’s series. This had a cozier vibe that I can’t quite nail down but know I FELT that had me snuggled up in a blanket devouring the pages. And now I am STOKED for Flint’s story!!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: mentions of loss of a mother, strained father/daughter relationship, gaslighting (not b/t main couple), mentions of past cheating
December 28, 2023
Loved this one so much! 💛
Adding this to "will write review later" pile 🙂👍
Adding this to "will write review later" pile 🙂👍
December 31, 2023
**Loved the second time through. I listened to the audio.**
Lennox and Tatum had a very competitive and almost hateful relationship in college and now when she comes to work as the caterer on his family's farm, things take a turn for entertaining.
"You know what they say about he link between love and hate," Brody says.
"True," Perry adds. "Imagine channeling all the passion you guys put into arguing into something else."
Channel away! This book is all I could've hoped for in a RomCom. The wit and banter is present in every single chapter and had me swooning; The underlying romantic tension was sizzling in a saute pan; and the humor and sweetness was almost better than dessert! Jenny Proctor has created a relatable family with wonderful characters and charisma. I loved everything about this story, but especially:
🍝Toby the golden doodle
🍝 the food descriptions
🍝 the bear scene
🍝 the shift in feelings
🍝 the sleep kiss
Why can't they make movies like this book anymore? It was soooo good!
Content: mild romance (kissing, very light innuendo)
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Lennox and Tatum had a very competitive and almost hateful relationship in college and now when she comes to work as the caterer on his family's farm, things take a turn for entertaining.
"You know what they say about he link between love and hate," Brody says.
"True," Perry adds. "Imagine channeling all the passion you guys put into arguing into something else."
Channel away! This book is all I could've hoped for in a RomCom. The wit and banter is present in every single chapter and had me swooning; The underlying romantic tension was sizzling in a saute pan; and the humor and sweetness was almost better than dessert! Jenny Proctor has created a relatable family with wonderful characters and charisma. I loved everything about this story, but especially:
🍝Toby the golden doodle
🍝 the food descriptions
🍝 the bear scene
🍝 the shift in feelings
🍝 the sleep kiss
Why can't they make movies like this book anymore? It was soooo good!
Content: mild romance (kissing, very light innuendo)
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
June 8, 2023
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and the Hawthorne Brothers series is a favorite so I had high expectations for this one and Jenny Proctor did not disappoint! I've been waiting for Lennox's story and right now he's my favorite brother!
Of all the people Olivia could have hired to help with the catering she had to hire Tatum Elliott? Tatum and Lennox were rivals in culinary school and that has not changed. These two had sparks from the beginning and I loved watching those sparks change from ones of irritation with each other to something else. Can we say they had chemistry in the kitchen?
There's so much I loved about this book:
The scene of Lennox helping move Tatum into her apartment that turns into something hilarious!
Penelope the goat is back!!
The food descriptions! This book made me hungry!
Close proximity
Teasing and banter
Hawthorne brother text thread!!
Swoony kisses!!
The epilogue!!
These two were fun together from the start of the book. I loved all of their interactions and learning about Tatum's background and why she left a prominent position to work in the catering kitchen. I love the Hawthorne family and can't wait to get the next story!
I received a complimentary copy but also bought an ebook for my personal library. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Of all the people Olivia could have hired to help with the catering she had to hire Tatum Elliott? Tatum and Lennox were rivals in culinary school and that has not changed. These two had sparks from the beginning and I loved watching those sparks change from ones of irritation with each other to something else. Can we say they had chemistry in the kitchen?
There's so much I loved about this book:
The scene of Lennox helping move Tatum into her apartment that turns into something hilarious!
Penelope the goat is back!!
The food descriptions! This book made me hungry!
Close proximity
Teasing and banter
Hawthorne brother text thread!!
Swoony kisses!!
The epilogue!!
These two were fun together from the start of the book. I loved all of their interactions and learning about Tatum's background and why she left a prominent position to work in the catering kitchen. I love the Hawthorne family and can't wait to get the next story!
I received a complimentary copy but also bought an ebook for my personal library. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 14, 2024
A super sweet rivals to lovers, dual POV, small town romance involving two chefs forced to work together who find they have stronger feelings than they first thought for one another. Good on audio and another fantastic addition to the Hawthorn Brothers series!
Steam level: kissing only
Steam level: kissing only
May 19, 2023
Arc Review
The third instalment to the Hawthorne Brothers series. (This book can be read as a standalone)
This was such a cute wholesome academic rivals/ enemies to lovers romcom story.
Tatum, the daughter of a famous chef comes to work at the farm to table venue owned by Chef Lennox Hawthorne, the two had been rivals since culinary school and this meeting reignites some of that competitive passion.
Low level spice, very cute and wholesome characters, the writing was great. I would definitely recommend this book as a palette cleanser if you are wanting a light low stakes romcom novel to get you out of a slump.
Was it revolutionary? No. Was it a good time? Yes.
The third instalment to the Hawthorne Brothers series. (This book can be read as a standalone)
This was such a cute wholesome academic rivals/ enemies to lovers romcom story.
Tatum, the daughter of a famous chef comes to work at the farm to table venue owned by Chef Lennox Hawthorne, the two had been rivals since culinary school and this meeting reignites some of that competitive passion.
Low level spice, very cute and wholesome characters, the writing was great. I would definitely recommend this book as a palette cleanser if you are wanting a light low stakes romcom novel to get you out of a slump.
Was it revolutionary? No. Was it a good time? Yes.
May 8, 2023
I loved it! It was a great enemies to lovers romcom. I enjoy reading the family dynamic of the Hawthorne brothers and the family farm is such a great book setting.
May 15, 2023
I love the Hawthorne Brothers series. This book was no exception. Can't wait to read Flint's story.
August 12, 2024
“Tatum snuck in on the sly. I was so busy, pretending to be annoyed by her presence, I missed how quickly that annoyance turned into something else entirely. And now it’s too late to do anything about it because there’s no way I’m walking away now.”
Tatum and Lennox are such an adorable couple and I loved everything about their story!
Years ago they were rivals at culinary school, now Tatum is hired to work for the Hawthorne’s as their new catering chef. Initially there is some rivalry and tension between them again, but that quickly changes to a strong mutual attraction and admiration.
I really loved—
💛 enemies to lovers
💛 forced proximity
💛 dual pov
💛 open & mature communication
💛 verbal sparring, banter, and flirting
💛 first and second kiss
💛 supportive Hawthorne family
💛 food & cooking
💛 clean and sizzling chemistry
💛 sweet, funny, feel good story
💛 epilogue
I loved being back at Stonebrook Farm, and this book was a fabulous addition to this excellent series! Highly recommended for anyone who loves sweet romcoms!
Many thanks to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
Tatum and Lennox are such an adorable couple and I loved everything about their story!
Years ago they were rivals at culinary school, now Tatum is hired to work for the Hawthorne’s as their new catering chef. Initially there is some rivalry and tension between them again, but that quickly changes to a strong mutual attraction and admiration.
I really loved—
💛 enemies to lovers
💛 forced proximity
💛 dual pov
💛 open & mature communication
💛 verbal sparring, banter, and flirting
💛 first and second kiss
💛 supportive Hawthorne family
💛 food & cooking
💛 clean and sizzling chemistry
💛 sweet, funny, feel good story
💛 epilogue
I loved being back at Stonebrook Farm, and this book was a fabulous addition to this excellent series! Highly recommended for anyone who loves sweet romcoms!
Many thanks to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
July 17, 2023
Thank you @jennyproctorbooks for sending me your books! 💕
This series is ADORABLE with such great humor! They're all fairly light, easy reads, and Proctor's characters are all so well-developed. The Hawthorne family is the most tight-knit, loveable, supportive family on the planet. 💕 Proctor's work is clean and wholesome, without being outdated or too Hallmarky.
𝟯- 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗞𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗺𝘆
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Chefs Tatum and Lennox met at culinary school, and they're rivals. So when Tatum is hired for a catering position at Lennox's family's business, sharing a building with HIS restaurant, they're not sure how they're going to survive the close proximity.
This slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, foodie romcom was such a blast! Lennox and Tatum's chemistry is sizzling - and not just in the kitchen. I loved seeing so many past books' characters. It was like catching up with old friends🥰
Another great read from Jenny Proctor! Can't wait for the next one!
📌This series is available on Kindle Unlimited.
This series is ADORABLE with such great humor! They're all fairly light, easy reads, and Proctor's characters are all so well-developed. The Hawthorne family is the most tight-knit, loveable, supportive family on the planet. 💕 Proctor's work is clean and wholesome, without being outdated or too Hallmarky.
𝟯- 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗞𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗺𝘆
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Chefs Tatum and Lennox met at culinary school, and they're rivals. So when Tatum is hired for a catering position at Lennox's family's business, sharing a building with HIS restaurant, they're not sure how they're going to survive the close proximity.
This slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, foodie romcom was such a blast! Lennox and Tatum's chemistry is sizzling - and not just in the kitchen. I loved seeing so many past books' characters. It was like catching up with old friends🥰
Another great read from Jenny Proctor! Can't wait for the next one!
📌This series is available on Kindle Unlimited.
July 4, 2023
he’s a GOOD MAN SAVANNAH! A GOOD MAN! she tried not to pero she wore her heart on her sleeve y se me chotio inmediatamente la amo porque i would do the same for that man env JAJAJAJ the way que he let her handle her dad’s shit without demanding anything of her and putting an ultimatum was very important 2 me (the bar is in hell)
also que su birth control no haya funcionado…. my bIGGEST FEAR pero bien por ella porque lo ama so todo cuadra JAJAJJAJAJA
also que su birth control no haya funcionado…. my bIGGEST FEAR pero bien por ella porque lo ama so todo cuadra JAJAJJAJAJA
April 7, 2024
Rivals who were very mature and respectful of each other. Love that they properly communicated.
October 23, 2023
thank you to victory editing and netgalley for access to this title! now available as of may 9th, 2023!
lennox hawthorne can’t believe his old culinary school rival, tatum elliot, is moving to his family’s estate, stonebrook farm, to run the catering side of their kitchens. owner and head chef of the farm-to-table restaurant only feet away from the catering kitchens, lennox thinks he knows what’s in store for her arrival. tatum has been living in her father’s shadow for as long as she can remember. on a whim, she decides to apply for the job at stonebrook farm, finally wanting to make her own path with a big decision looming over her.
when she finally arrives, although it’s been years since culinary school, the rivalry is alive as ever… but with a new element hiding just below the surface?
this was so CUTE! i wasn’t sure what to expect going into this but it blew away my expectations! i love that it centers on cooking and running a restaurant, it made me reminisce on the times i’ve worked in restaurants (the good times, at least lol).
my favorite part of all is there’s NO miscommunication! they were open and honest with each other, and the banter and tension were amazing.
this is definitely a palate cleanser, a clean and fluffy, heartwarming read. tatum finding family in the hawthornes was so nice to see.
there is very little conflict -next to none between the MCs- but it’s believable to a certain extent. it doesn’t take much for them to get their HEA.
i so wish i read the other books in the series before this, the family and characters are very intertwined, and at three books into the series the previous MCs are very established in their relationships. at least i can look forward to seeing how it all started with them!
lennox hawthorne can’t believe his old culinary school rival, tatum elliot, is moving to his family’s estate, stonebrook farm, to run the catering side of their kitchens. owner and head chef of the farm-to-table restaurant only feet away from the catering kitchens, lennox thinks he knows what’s in store for her arrival. tatum has been living in her father’s shadow for as long as she can remember. on a whim, she decides to apply for the job at stonebrook farm, finally wanting to make her own path with a big decision looming over her.
when she finally arrives, although it’s been years since culinary school, the rivalry is alive as ever… but with a new element hiding just below the surface?
this was so CUTE! i wasn’t sure what to expect going into this but it blew away my expectations! i love that it centers on cooking and running a restaurant, it made me reminisce on the times i’ve worked in restaurants (the good times, at least lol).
my favorite part of all is there’s NO miscommunication! they were open and honest with each other, and the banter and tension were amazing.
this is definitely a palate cleanser, a clean and fluffy, heartwarming read. tatum finding family in the hawthornes was so nice to see.
there is very little conflict -next to none between the MCs- but it’s believable to a certain extent. it doesn’t take much for them to get their HEA.
i so wish i read the other books in the series before this, the family and characters are very intertwined, and at three books into the series the previous MCs are very established in their relationships. at least i can look forward to seeing how it all started with them!
January 20, 2024
page 215 is my absolute favorite 🤩 i literally was hysterical over this page for 5 minutes!! and that is not an easy feat because i’ve read over five hundred books in my life and i’ve never done that before! I could NOT put this book down. five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
this is a wonderful clean rom com and lots of good character growth. funny family moments and dynamics and very wholesome. ❤️
this is a wonderful clean rom com and lots of good character growth. funny family moments and dynamics and very wholesome. ❤️
May 9, 2023
➳ arc rating: 4.5 ★
First of all, I want to thank the author, Victory Editing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. How To Kiss Your Enemy by Jenny Proctor will be coming out on May 9th, 2023.
Jenny Proctor is a YA rom-com author. Her best-seller novel, Eloise and the Grump Next Door was released in 2022.
How To Kiss Your Enemy is book 3 in the How To Kiss A Hawthorne Brother Series, but it can be read as a stand-alone.
What is the book about?
In this story, the chemistry between two chefs, whose rivalry dates back to culinary school, takes center stage. When Tatum Elliott (FMC), daughter of the famous chef Christopher Elliott, arrives to run the catering kitchen at Lennox Hawthorne’s (MMC) family farm and event center, tensions arise.
Lennox, while distrustful of Tatum, finds himself drawn to her. Their heated rivalry resurfaces, but there's also an undeniable attraction simmering between them, growing faster than any dish they create in the kitchen. However, Lennox can't forget that Tatum's future lies in the glamorous culinary world, not on a farm.
Determined to protect his heart, he must ensure that when Tatum eventually leaves, she doesn't take his heart with her.
The story explores the complexities of love, ambition, and finding a place where one truly belongs.
Tropes and themes: • Rivals to lovers
• Second chance
• HEA
My review:
How To Kiss Your Enemy is a YA rom-com with Harry Styles references that will make you fall in love with all its characters.
This novel is captivating to the point that I couldn’t put the book down not a single second —i literally fully read it in an afternoon. It was a really easy and quick read.
Lennox and his family deserve all the goodness. I loved their relationships with Tatum and how kindly and close they all were with her since the beginning.
Both main characters have so much chemistry throughout the whole book and worked so well together. This is a must-read if you are into culinary romances and soft rom-coms in general!
My favourite quotes:
”If she’s dreaming, I’m glad it’s about me. Because whether she remembers it or not, my first kiss with Tatum Elliot is something I’m never going to forget.”
“For the first time, maybe in forever, I feel free.”
Who I recommend this book to?
• People who look for an easy and quick read.
#HowToKissYourEnemy #NetGalley
First of all, I want to thank the author, Victory Editing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. How To Kiss Your Enemy by Jenny Proctor will be coming out on May 9th, 2023.
Jenny Proctor is a YA rom-com author. Her best-seller novel, Eloise and the Grump Next Door was released in 2022.
How To Kiss Your Enemy is book 3 in the How To Kiss A Hawthorne Brother Series, but it can be read as a stand-alone.
What is the book about?
In this story, the chemistry between two chefs, whose rivalry dates back to culinary school, takes center stage. When Tatum Elliott (FMC), daughter of the famous chef Christopher Elliott, arrives to run the catering kitchen at Lennox Hawthorne’s (MMC) family farm and event center, tensions arise.
Lennox, while distrustful of Tatum, finds himself drawn to her. Their heated rivalry resurfaces, but there's also an undeniable attraction simmering between them, growing faster than any dish they create in the kitchen. However, Lennox can't forget that Tatum's future lies in the glamorous culinary world, not on a farm.
Determined to protect his heart, he must ensure that when Tatum eventually leaves, she doesn't take his heart with her.
The story explores the complexities of love, ambition, and finding a place where one truly belongs.
Tropes and themes: • Rivals to lovers
• Second chance
• HEA
My review:
How To Kiss Your Enemy is a YA rom-com with Harry Styles references that will make you fall in love with all its characters.
This novel is captivating to the point that I couldn’t put the book down not a single second —i literally fully read it in an afternoon. It was a really easy and quick read.
Lennox and his family deserve all the goodness. I loved their relationships with Tatum and how kindly and close they all were with her since the beginning.
Both main characters have so much chemistry throughout the whole book and worked so well together. This is a must-read if you are into culinary romances and soft rom-coms in general!
My favourite quotes:
”If she’s dreaming, I’m glad it’s about me. Because whether she remembers it or not, my first kiss with Tatum Elliot is something I’m never going to forget.”
“For the first time, maybe in forever, I feel free.”
Who I recommend this book to?
• People who look for an easy and quick read.
#HowToKissYourEnemy #NetGalley
August 18, 2023
Rating: 3.5/5
Read it for the:
-Rivals to lovers
-Fun food-centered plot
-Work place romance
-Hawthorne family cameos
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
TW: mention of death of a parent (past)
Romance: clean - kissing only
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
A fun new addition to the Hawthorne brothers series, How to kiss your enemy is the story of two competitive chefs with a years long rivalry, falling in love.
I enjoyed Lennox and Tatum’s story! While it was easy to spot why they would be considered enemies in their early years in culinary school, a strong rivalry kept up between them as they reconnected again after Tatum was hired to work as a chef for the Hawthorne family. They had great chemistry and it was fun to watch them come to terms with the fact they no longer hated each other, but felt attraction.
I liked the conflict Tatum’s relationship with her famous father added to the plot. It was good to see her struggle to separate herself from her fathers shadow and coming to terms with what she wanted in life. Lennox also had some development, going from renown playboy to settling down in a committed relationship.
Overall, How to kiss your enemy was a sweet, quick read, that’s perfect for Foodies and closed door readers alike. While this can be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading in series order.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Read it for the:
-Rivals to lovers
-Fun food-centered plot
-Work place romance
-Hawthorne family cameos
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭:
TW: mention of death of a parent (past)
Romance: clean - kissing only
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
A fun new addition to the Hawthorne brothers series, How to kiss your enemy is the story of two competitive chefs with a years long rivalry, falling in love.
I enjoyed Lennox and Tatum’s story! While it was easy to spot why they would be considered enemies in their early years in culinary school, a strong rivalry kept up between them as they reconnected again after Tatum was hired to work as a chef for the Hawthorne family. They had great chemistry and it was fun to watch them come to terms with the fact they no longer hated each other, but felt attraction.
I liked the conflict Tatum’s relationship with her famous father added to the plot. It was good to see her struggle to separate herself from her fathers shadow and coming to terms with what she wanted in life. Lennox also had some development, going from renown playboy to settling down in a committed relationship.
Overall, How to kiss your enemy was a sweet, quick read, that’s perfect for Foodies and closed door readers alike. While this can be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading in series order.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
June 13, 2024
- closed door romance
- dual POV
- enemies to lovers
- he made a burrito for her dog
- small town romance
- HEA
- witty banter to the max
- brothers group chat
- forced proximity (both chefs)
fav quotes:
“Careful, Tatum,” he says as he comes up behind me, the heavier box in his hands. “You’re sounding a little flirty.”
Because I am definitely not thinking about kissing Tatum Elliott. Kissing her would be madness. Ridiculous. Reckless.
“I know I promised,” he fires back, “but I saved you, didn’t I? I’m here. I won’t let anything hurt you.”
A little herby, with hints of citrus and sandalwood. I could breathe this in all day and never get tired of it.
She smells like Carolina jasmine in spring, which is now, officially, my new favorite scent.
I want to know it all. Everything there is to know about Tatum Elliott. How she works. What she likes. What makes her happy and sad and excited. I want to see the different pieces of her and understand how they all fit together.
But Tatum freaking Elliott is my future. And I couldn’t be happier.
- dual POV
- enemies to lovers
- he made a burrito for her dog
- small town romance
- HEA
- witty banter to the max
- brothers group chat
- forced proximity (both chefs)
fav quotes:
“Careful, Tatum,” he says as he comes up behind me, the heavier box in his hands. “You’re sounding a little flirty.”
Because I am definitely not thinking about kissing Tatum Elliott. Kissing her would be madness. Ridiculous. Reckless.
“I know I promised,” he fires back, “but I saved you, didn’t I? I’m here. I won’t let anything hurt you.”
A little herby, with hints of citrus and sandalwood. I could breathe this in all day and never get tired of it.
She smells like Carolina jasmine in spring, which is now, officially, my new favorite scent.
I want to know it all. Everything there is to know about Tatum Elliott. How she works. What she likes. What makes her happy and sad and excited. I want to see the different pieces of her and understand how they all fit together.
But Tatum freaking Elliott is my future. And I couldn’t be happier.
June 9, 2023
How to Kiss Your Enemy by Jenny Proctor is a contemporary romantic comedy about two chefs who have an old rivalry from when they were in culinary school. Lennox has had to work hard and he is now the chef of his own restaurant. Tatum is the daughter of renowned chef Christopher Elliot and it seems like she’s been handed every opportunity for her entire life. Lennox isn’t sure why she’s leaving her fancy French restaurant in LA to come and work for his family, but he’s sure that it’s going to complicate his life—and it does. Their competitive spirits flare up immediately and sparks are flying. But underneath the animosity, there is a thread of something more and when that starts to unravel, things really heat up.
See the rest of my review at https://latterdaysaintmag.com/book-ch...
See the rest of my review at https://latterdaysaintmag.com/book-ch...
April 28, 2024
An enemies to lovers between two rival chefs? Say no more. If you're not usually a fan of this trope, but are willing to read the one that will make you a believer, do not pass this one up!! It is soooooo good!!!! SO good!. The amount of times I laughed out loud, squealed, and/or kicked my feet is just a testament to how stinkin’ good it is. The progression of Lennox and Tatum's relationship is just so perfect and so incredibly sweet. Jenny Proctor knocked it out of the park with this one.
September 19, 2024
This was so sweet. Super cute. Definitely rivals to lovers not enemies to lovers but that actually was better since this is supposed to be the real world.
I love all the time skips; the fact that they didn’t just fall in love overnight was way more realistic than many other romances. It was still super cheesy but a perfect little palate cleanser. By far my favorite of the Hawthorne brother books so far.
I liked that there wasn’t a lot of the miscommunication problems that most other romance novels rely on to move the plot forward.
I love all the time skips; the fact that they didn’t just fall in love overnight was way more realistic than many other romances. It was still super cheesy but a perfect little palate cleanser. By far my favorite of the Hawthorne brother books so far.
I liked that there wasn’t a lot of the miscommunication problems that most other romance novels rely on to move the plot forward.
November 16, 2025
I wish we'd gotten more of their bickering and the backstory behind all of it and more on why she decided she'd want to work with him other than it was away from her dad.
I didn't love love this, but I didn't hate anything about it either, but I do think the couple coulda spent a lot more time with one another rather than just spending so much of the book in the head of one character thinking about the other
I didn't love love this, but I didn't hate anything about it either, but I do think the couple coulda spent a lot more time with one another rather than just spending so much of the book in the head of one character thinking about the other
May 31, 2023
Tatum and Lennox are old rivals from culinary school. With her father being food royalty, Tatum has had her career served to her on a silver platter, while Lennox has worked hard to make a name for his new restaurant on his family's farm. When Tatum takes a job as the catering chef, the pair are thrust together, even if they can't stand the sight of each other.
It is so good to be back in the world of the Hawthorne brothers! I adore this family and the farm. How to Kiss Your Enemy is the third installment in the series and the books just keep getting better. There are so many hilarious moments, including an insta-famous goat prancing around a kitchen. Reading this book made me incredibly hungry too!
I loved Tatum and Lennox together. With a shared history, their relationship developed naturally. The enemies to lovers was done so well, especially with the forced proximity of the pair working in close quarters. Their bickering was hilarious and helped grow the tension. It was sweet how Lennox tried to help Tatum find her way in the world. These two just made me smile!
Of course I can't forget about the fantastic Hawthorne family dynamic, complete with meddling siblings. I am excited to see where the series goes next! Jenny Proctor will forever be an auto-buy author for me.
It is so good to be back in the world of the Hawthorne brothers! I adore this family and the farm. How to Kiss Your Enemy is the third installment in the series and the books just keep getting better. There are so many hilarious moments, including an insta-famous goat prancing around a kitchen. Reading this book made me incredibly hungry too!
I loved Tatum and Lennox together. With a shared history, their relationship developed naturally. The enemies to lovers was done so well, especially with the forced proximity of the pair working in close quarters. Their bickering was hilarious and helped grow the tension. It was sweet how Lennox tried to help Tatum find her way in the world. These two just made me smile!
Of course I can't forget about the fantastic Hawthorne family dynamic, complete with meddling siblings. I am excited to see where the series goes next! Jenny Proctor will forever be an auto-buy author for me.
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