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Friction and Fries: Cooking up Feelings they can't ignore
“Why don’t we just kiss and get it over with?” Luke proposed, his tone teasing.
Kelsey immediately coughed in surprise at his boldness, her eyes widening. “Are you crazy?” she replied, incredulity lacing her voice.
“No, I’m not,” Luke insisted, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. “I overheard that you’ve never been kissed. Let me do it; you don’t need a date for that.”
“You are really full of it,” Kelsey shot back, trying to keep her composure.
“Come on, I know you can’t resist,” Luke teased, his playful grin growing wider as he stepped a little closer… “what do you say? Just one little kiss to see what it’s like?”
*****
Luke, a 21-year-old heir poised to take over his family's renowned burger chain, faces an unexpected his father insists he start as a part-time employee at a bustling location to learn the business from the ground up.
Kelsey, a feisty 19-year-old with a no-nonsense attitude, who works at the very store where Luke is to begin his reluctant journey. Unlike Luke's polished exterior, Kelsey embodies raw authenticity, often overlooked due to her plain appearance.
Their paths clash in a rivalry fuelled by Luke's arrogance and Kelsey's disdain for it. Tension brews as they engage in petty fights and sabotage. However, amidst the chaos, an undeniable chemistry begins to form, forcing them to confront feelings they never expected.
As Luke struggles to step down from his privileged life and Kelsey fights her growing attraction to him, the line between love and hate blurs. In this tumultuous journey, can they embrace their complex emotions, or will their animosity drive them apart?
Kelsey immediately coughed in surprise at his boldness, her eyes widening. “Are you crazy?” she replied, incredulity lacing her voice.
“No, I’m not,” Luke insisted, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. “I overheard that you’ve never been kissed. Let me do it; you don’t need a date for that.”
“You are really full of it,” Kelsey shot back, trying to keep her composure.
“Come on, I know you can’t resist,” Luke teased, his playful grin growing wider as he stepped a little closer… “what do you say? Just one little kiss to see what it’s like?”
*****
Luke, a 21-year-old heir poised to take over his family's renowned burger chain, faces an unexpected his father insists he start as a part-time employee at a bustling location to learn the business from the ground up.
Kelsey, a feisty 19-year-old with a no-nonsense attitude, who works at the very store where Luke is to begin his reluctant journey. Unlike Luke's polished exterior, Kelsey embodies raw authenticity, often overlooked due to her plain appearance.
Their paths clash in a rivalry fuelled by Luke's arrogance and Kelsey's disdain for it. Tension brews as they engage in petty fights and sabotage. However, amidst the chaos, an undeniable chemistry begins to form, forcing them to confront feelings they never expected.
As Luke struggles to step down from his privileged life and Kelsey fights her growing attraction to him, the line between love and hate blurs. In this tumultuous journey, can they embrace their complex emotions, or will their animosity drive them apart?
- GenresRomance
376 pages, Paperback
Published December 17, 2024
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2047 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 7, 2024
Sizzling and Delicious!
In the teen/YA romantic comedy novel, FRICTION AND FRIES, ‘The Elusive Authoress’ cooks up a wonderfully conceived and executed novel that is hard to put down for readers of any age.
The story follows the developing love life of Kelsey, a hard-working 19-year-old first year college student with a part-time job at a university town hamburger joint, part of a national chain. As the book opens, a variety of young men are beginning to pay interest in Kelsey -- a beautiful young woman but in the “never been kissed” category – which provides her with all sorts of delightful complications to her previously straightforward life as an accounting major.
There is Mike, with whom she’s been smitten since high school, who is finally reciprocating her interest and making a belated move to date her; the handsome heartthrob Luke, a 21-year-old junior year student who is scion to a wealthy family that owns the national chain of burger restaurants where Kelsey works; and Timothy, an older business school student; and so on.
The main event, though, is clearly the relationship developing with Luke. Between the two of them there is undeniable chemistry and one gets the idea that their getting together is an inevitability. And the plot thickens when Luke’s father sends him to work at the same restaurant outlet as Kelsey, to obtain a grounds-up knowledge of the family business before heading to a senior management position in the headquarters.
Daily contact ensues between the two and starts out as mutual infatuation, proceeds then to misunderstanding and conflict, but resolves into love.
But just when it looks like the happy ending is near, a huge, heartbreaking plot twist threatens everything!
This novel has all the good feelings of a heartwarming romantic comedy movie. In fact, one hopes some visionary in Hollywood spots it and takes the plunge! Four stars – would be five, except for the impression of a lot of redundancy that should be edited out . . . the same thoughts are expressed, over and over, along with many fairly unnecessary and meaningless scenes, adding nothing to advance the plot but bogging things down. Would be five stars after such edits.
In the teen/YA romantic comedy novel, FRICTION AND FRIES, ‘The Elusive Authoress’ cooks up a wonderfully conceived and executed novel that is hard to put down for readers of any age.
The story follows the developing love life of Kelsey, a hard-working 19-year-old first year college student with a part-time job at a university town hamburger joint, part of a national chain. As the book opens, a variety of young men are beginning to pay interest in Kelsey -- a beautiful young woman but in the “never been kissed” category – which provides her with all sorts of delightful complications to her previously straightforward life as an accounting major.
There is Mike, with whom she’s been smitten since high school, who is finally reciprocating her interest and making a belated move to date her; the handsome heartthrob Luke, a 21-year-old junior year student who is scion to a wealthy family that owns the national chain of burger restaurants where Kelsey works; and Timothy, an older business school student; and so on.
The main event, though, is clearly the relationship developing with Luke. Between the two of them there is undeniable chemistry and one gets the idea that their getting together is an inevitability. And the plot thickens when Luke’s father sends him to work at the same restaurant outlet as Kelsey, to obtain a grounds-up knowledge of the family business before heading to a senior management position in the headquarters.
Daily contact ensues between the two and starts out as mutual infatuation, proceeds then to misunderstanding and conflict, but resolves into love.
But just when it looks like the happy ending is near, a huge, heartbreaking plot twist threatens everything!
This novel has all the good feelings of a heartwarming romantic comedy movie. In fact, one hopes some visionary in Hollywood spots it and takes the plunge! Four stars – would be five, except for the impression of a lot of redundancy that should be edited out . . . the same thoughts are expressed, over and over, along with many fairly unnecessary and meaningless scenes, adding nothing to advance the plot but bogging things down. Would be five stars after such edits.
March 9, 2025
I don't know where all of the other reviews are coming from! I'm not the type of person to ever rate anything poorly, but this book is tough to read. The paragraphs are choppy, certain phrases are overused throughout the entire book, and there are a lot of errors (mostly some sentences missing the last half and some names being replaced with random names). This doesn't feel like reading a romance written by a human, it feels like I'm reading a middle school drama conjured up by ChatGPT. I really wanted to enjoy this book but I truly can't fathom a human writing it, unless they're much younger.
December 18, 2024
'Friction and Fries: Cooking Up Feelings They Can’t Ignore' takes a familiar trope — opposites attract — and mixes it with humor, heart and slow-burn YA romance. The dynamic between Luke and Kelsey is the heart of the book and the tension is there from the jump. The author does a really nice job of building anticipation with the romantic aspects of the story. You can feel the playfulness and awkwardness in the beginning but as the story progresses, you’re really rooting for them. It’s a familiar dynamic, but there’s a reason this trope is so popular and the author does a masterful job of building the anticipation of the relationship. The setting of the story, Whimsy Burger, is also fun and adds a lot to the book’s charm. The restaurant is not just where they work—it’s a setting for them to grow and change. People who have worked in the restaurant industry will relate. The secondary characters are also well-drawn and add some intrigue to the story. Overall, this book is a great blend of romance, humor and tension. Highly recommend it.
December 18, 2024
riction and Fries was a young adult romance between Kelsey and Luke. Luke is a rich kid trying to learn his father's business. While working at the same place, the pair clashes, but Kelsey tries to keep Luke's head out of the clouds and be real.
It is a slow-burn romance with lots of unexpected twists. No spoilers - but the twists are gut-wrenching and fist-bumping. The writing style doesn't rush the story, which I enjoyed. So many churned-out books seem to hurdle to the end to begin the next installment, but this is a relaxing story to curl up with. The dialogue and plot are really well done.
It isn't all easy-going. Luke can be possessive, a bit aggressive, and a bit dirty chasing off rivals. But he is nuts about Kelsey, and who doesn't want to be loved like that? This is a page-turning fun story.
It is a slow-burn romance with lots of unexpected twists. No spoilers - but the twists are gut-wrenching and fist-bumping. The writing style doesn't rush the story, which I enjoyed. So many churned-out books seem to hurdle to the end to begin the next installment, but this is a relaxing story to curl up with. The dialogue and plot are really well done.
It isn't all easy-going. Luke can be possessive, a bit aggressive, and a bit dirty chasing off rivals. But he is nuts about Kelsey, and who doesn't want to be loved like that? This is a page-turning fun story.
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April 17, 2025cute cute cover and enemies to lovers
This one really reads like a YA novel. It’s cute. Down to earth freshman accounting student Kelsey runs into heir apparent Luke Sterling. He insults her, skip ahead a year and they end up working at a burger joint together.
I admire the youthful exuberance of a sophomore in college girl and guy going for an ice cream date. She’s never been kissed and is too shy to pucker up for poor Timothy to distract her from the flirty friction between her and Luke.
It was cute and sweet. A great escape.
This one really reads like a YA novel. It’s cute. Down to earth freshman accounting student Kelsey runs into heir apparent Luke Sterling. He insults her, skip ahead a year and they end up working at a burger joint together.
I admire the youthful exuberance of a sophomore in college girl and guy going for an ice cream date. She’s never been kissed and is too shy to pucker up for poor Timothy to distract her from the flirty friction between her and Luke.
It was cute and sweet. A great escape.
January 29, 2025
Great romance novel
Friction and Fries is a captivating enemies-to-lovers romance that masterfully blends workplace rivalry with unexpected passion. The dynamic between Luke and Kelsey is both fiery and endearing, making this novel a delightful read for fans of heartfelt romantic comedies.
Friction and Fries is a captivating enemies-to-lovers romance that masterfully blends workplace rivalry with unexpected passion. The dynamic between Luke and Kelsey is both fiery and endearing, making this novel a delightful read for fans of heartfelt romantic comedies.
January 30, 2025
I fell in love with Kelsey and Luke. Friction and Fries is a young adult romance in which enemies-to-lovers is done just right. These two and there relationship are sweet and fiery. Sometimes I need a light book after some dark serious ones, and this gave me just what I needed for a light read.
February 25, 2025
This should be a movie!
What a crazy plot twister! In the end, all that really matters is love. Sibling love, marital love and family love- it’s all here in this book!
What a crazy plot twister! In the end, all that really matters is love. Sibling love, marital love and family love- it’s all here in this book!
January 30, 2025
"Friction and Fries: Cooking up Feelings they can't ignore," by The Elusive Authoress, is an exquisite narrative that artfully mixes elements of romance, self-discovery, and emotional growth. The story is a culinary symphony, intertwining flavors both savory and bitter, inviting readers into a world where the heart's true desires simmer just beneath the surface. Through the eyes of well-crafted characters, the reader embarks on a journey of compelling introspection and undeniable chemistry that sizzles on every page.
From the very beginning, this book grips you with an intensity born out of relatable struggles and unexpected connections. The setting—imbued with vibrant hues and comforting aromas—comes alive, inviting readers to lose themselves in a sensory feast. As the characters' lives coil around one another, their emotions crackle with unspoken words and repressed desires, leaving you yearning to uncover the depths of their entangled hearts. Yet, The Elusive Authoress deftly navigates the delicate balance between sentiment and restraint, rendering a narrative that is as poignant as it is electrifying.
Each chapter of "Friction and Fries" propels the reader deeper into the lives of its protagonists, unveiling layers of complexity that are as fulfilling as they are intriguing. As the characters grapple with love and self-identity, readers will find themselves reflecting on their own lives, challenged to confront the invisible forces that shape their own narratives. The authenticity of their struggles fosters a sense of kinship that lingers long after the book has been set down, making every twist and turn not just entertaining but profoundly meaningful.
The prose in this evocative novel is nothing short of enchanting; it flows with a musical cadence that is both refreshing and deeply evocative. The Elusive Authoress is a master at weaving emotions into each sentence, providing a raw and authentic portrayal of vulnerability and strength. It's impossible not to be swept away by the artful storytelling, as the narrative captures the heart's whispers that often go unheard in the cacophony of everyday life.
Ultimately, what elevates "Friction and Fries" to a 5 out of 5-star rating is its ability to resonate on an emotional level. It celebrates the courage to embrace one's true self, even amidst the chaos that love can bring. This book merits its accolades for its deft storytelling, richly developed characters, and the profound honesty with which it examines the human condition. It isn’t just a story; it's an experience, one that leaves readers with a longing for more and a renewed understanding of love’s intricate dance.
From the very beginning, this book grips you with an intensity born out of relatable struggles and unexpected connections. The setting—imbued with vibrant hues and comforting aromas—comes alive, inviting readers to lose themselves in a sensory feast. As the characters' lives coil around one another, their emotions crackle with unspoken words and repressed desires, leaving you yearning to uncover the depths of their entangled hearts. Yet, The Elusive Authoress deftly navigates the delicate balance between sentiment and restraint, rendering a narrative that is as poignant as it is electrifying.
Each chapter of "Friction and Fries" propels the reader deeper into the lives of its protagonists, unveiling layers of complexity that are as fulfilling as they are intriguing. As the characters grapple with love and self-identity, readers will find themselves reflecting on their own lives, challenged to confront the invisible forces that shape their own narratives. The authenticity of their struggles fosters a sense of kinship that lingers long after the book has been set down, making every twist and turn not just entertaining but profoundly meaningful.
The prose in this evocative novel is nothing short of enchanting; it flows with a musical cadence that is both refreshing and deeply evocative. The Elusive Authoress is a master at weaving emotions into each sentence, providing a raw and authentic portrayal of vulnerability and strength. It's impossible not to be swept away by the artful storytelling, as the narrative captures the heart's whispers that often go unheard in the cacophony of everyday life.
Ultimately, what elevates "Friction and Fries" to a 5 out of 5-star rating is its ability to resonate on an emotional level. It celebrates the courage to embrace one's true self, even amidst the chaos that love can bring. This book merits its accolades for its deft storytelling, richly developed characters, and the profound honesty with which it examines the human condition. It isn’t just a story; it's an experience, one that leaves readers with a longing for more and a renewed understanding of love’s intricate dance.
December 30, 2024
It was full of a perfect mix of humor, romance, and personal growth. Really, Kelsey and Luke were an appealing rival to lovers couple the tension and awkwardness were really drawn out at times with sizzling chemistry. In the dynamic, rooted by sharp banter and challenges between them, their interaction eventually sets itself toward one that will most definitely melt your heart with its honesty.
Whimsy Burger isn't just a place of employment; it is the setting for their coming of age. Restaurant life details add a bit more realism and relatability, especially to those readers who have had jobs of this nature. The romance is slow-burn and beautifully paced, filled with build-up and some real gut wrenching twists.
While the predictability of the story was comfortingly familiar, there were some sections that felt repetitive, which slightly slowed the momentum. Still, the well-drawn secondary characters and the balance of humor and drama make it an enjoyable read. Lovers of light romance combined with a hint of workplace drama will find this book very engaging.
Whimsy Burger isn't just a place of employment; it is the setting for their coming of age. Restaurant life details add a bit more realism and relatability, especially to those readers who have had jobs of this nature. The romance is slow-burn and beautifully paced, filled with build-up and some real gut wrenching twists.
While the predictability of the story was comfortingly familiar, there were some sections that felt repetitive, which slightly slowed the momentum. Still, the well-drawn secondary characters and the balance of humor and drama make it an enjoyable read. Lovers of light romance combined with a hint of workplace drama will find this book very engaging.
dnf
April 16, 2025DNF at barely 3% in. Logging so I know not to try this again.
I LOVE this cover - it's so stinking cute. However, the writing here is just... bad. There are too many exclamation points. There are too many "she said, twinkling her eyes" or "he said, curling his lips" or "she said, smiling wide" And their speak is WAY too formal for actually speaking. This is how you talk when you don't want to offend someone, not how college students talk to one another. It's so stilted. And when only two people are talking, you don't need to name the person every single sentence.
There is no way I can get through any more of this.
I LOVE this cover - it's so stinking cute. However, the writing here is just... bad. There are too many exclamation points. There are too many "she said, twinkling her eyes" or "he said, curling his lips" or "she said, smiling wide" And their speak is WAY too formal for actually speaking. This is how you talk when you don't want to offend someone, not how college students talk to one another. It's so stilted. And when only two people are talking, you don't need to name the person every single sentence.
There is no way I can get through any more of this.
April 24, 2025
Guys this book !😭 was everything the plot twist the romance the chemistry of Luke and Kelsey was everything.! The Romantic plot twist the Families plot twist the drama with the families plot twist was Yoh amazing was so intense it made me binge read till very last chapter and I didn’t even realise it !!!!😭
April 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Reading it kept me up late at night. Big fan of Luke and love Kelsey's character. The plot twist was a surprise, but satisfying. I don't want to give any spoilers. 4 stars due to minor grammar issues, which could be fixed with a proofread, Otherwise I would have given it a 5.
February 8, 2025
This was the perfect mix of sass, spice, and sweetness! This small town rom-com delivers everything I love in a romance - enemies to lovers, workplace rivalry, forced proximity, and plenty of witty banter. The push-and-pull between Callie and Jonah kept me hooked, with tension that simmered like a perfectly cooked meal. Their competitive dynamic at the diner was hilarious, and watching their relationship shift from rivalry to something deeper was chef's kiss.
What I loved most was how much this book mirrored my own experience working in a restaurant. In the beginning, Callie and Jonah couldn’t stand each other, much like the way you can hate someone you work with one day, only for everything to shift over time. The long hours, the stress, and the chaos of it all—eventually, you start seeing each other in a different light. It’s that push & pull dynamic where one minute you’re ready to tear each other’s heads off, and the next, you’re caught in a whirlwind of chemistry you can’t ignore. The way Callie and Jonah’s relationship unfolded felt so true to that, and I loved how everything worked itself out by the end. When the chaos dies down and they finally find their rhythm, it’s like you want to jump each other’s bones, and they totally do! 🔥🔥
Beyond the romance, I loved the cozy small town setting, the mouthwatering food descriptions, and the fun, meddling side characters who added so much charm. The writing was lighthearted yet emotional in all the right places, making this such an enjoyable, feel-good read. If you love a romance with humor, heart, and just the right amount of spice, this book is definitely one to pick up!
What I loved most was how much this book mirrored my own experience working in a restaurant. In the beginning, Callie and Jonah couldn’t stand each other, much like the way you can hate someone you work with one day, only for everything to shift over time. The long hours, the stress, and the chaos of it all—eventually, you start seeing each other in a different light. It’s that push & pull dynamic where one minute you’re ready to tear each other’s heads off, and the next, you’re caught in a whirlwind of chemistry you can’t ignore. The way Callie and Jonah’s relationship unfolded felt so true to that, and I loved how everything worked itself out by the end. When the chaos dies down and they finally find their rhythm, it’s like you want to jump each other’s bones, and they totally do! 🔥🔥
Beyond the romance, I loved the cozy small town setting, the mouthwatering food descriptions, and the fun, meddling side characters who added so much charm. The writing was lighthearted yet emotional in all the right places, making this such an enjoyable, feel-good read. If you love a romance with humor, heart, and just the right amount of spice, this book is definitely one to pick up!
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