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Gia, San Francisco Romances #1
Chef's Kiss: A Gia, San Francisco Romance, Book 1
Valentina Rosas has always known what she wants. Mostly. Sort of. At least, she does now. And what she wants is the coveted staging role at Gia, San Francisco. With four years at the top of her class in culinary school and enough tenacity to fuel the entire Mission, no one doubts she is about to land the job of her dreams—including the three-person cheer squad made up of her best friend and adorably overbearing parents.
Renowned chef Jenn Coleman is not a people person. Her rise to the top of the culinary industry stems from a cultivated blend of top-tier schooling—from her nonna—and bouts of carefully managed misanthropy. Owning and operating two Michelin starred restaurants doesn’t leave time for much else anyway. Just ask her ex.
When the new stage at her restaurant trips into her with all the grace of a baby giraffe, it’s a sure recipe for disaster. But for all of Jenn’s reserve, Valentina has twice the allure, and the chemistry between them is just… chef’s kiss.
If only Jenn wasn’t Valentina’s boss with nearly ten years between them.
Renowned chef Jenn Coleman is not a people person. Her rise to the top of the culinary industry stems from a cultivated blend of top-tier schooling—from her nonna—and bouts of carefully managed misanthropy. Owning and operating two Michelin starred restaurants doesn’t leave time for much else anyway. Just ask her ex.
When the new stage at her restaurant trips into her with all the grace of a baby giraffe, it’s a sure recipe for disaster. But for all of Jenn’s reserve, Valentina has twice the allure, and the chemistry between them is just… chef’s kiss.
If only Jenn wasn’t Valentina’s boss with nearly ten years between them.
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Published April 10, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 6, 2024
I’ll blame the fact that we now have so many sapphic books to choose from as the reason I hadn’t read one by Stephanie Shea until now. Chef’s Kiss was such an easy, heartwarming listen that I really look forward to more of hers.
It was also my first narration by A.J. Ferraro and it fits the tone and characters well, adding to the overall enjoyment of it all.
So, what’s Chef’s Kiss about? Valentina Rosas’s dream is very close to coming true when she’s offered a staging role at star restaurant Gia, San Francisco. Tripping in front of her idol, renowned chef Jenn Coleman, wasn’t how she imagined their first encounter, however.
Both women have wildly different personalities and they complement each other perfectly. There’s a lot of sweet tension between them as they encounter a few bumps on their journey to each other. Valentina is an extrovert, full of energy and joy, whereas Jenn is reserved, focused on her two Michelin restaurants and her teenage son. Valentina can count on the unwavering support of lovely—albeit slightly overbearing—parents in Mexico and her best friend/roommate Zoe, who’ll follow her anywhere she needs to be. Jenn, the daughter of a Black woman and an Italian man, who named her restaurants after her nonna, maintains a friendly and respectful relationship with her ex, Rachel. Her best friend (and employee) Avery also keeps an eye on her. There are no on-page villains in this story (there is in one of the MCs’ background), all the characters are endearing, flaws and all.
From what I can tell, Shea’s depiction of the restaurant kitchen energy is accurate. I could have done with a bit more detail about the food itself, first because food is life and also because I know so little about Mexican food that I had a hard time picturing what Italian-Mexican fusion would taste like. It sounds really delicious, though.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
April 6, 2022
Enjoyable read. A nine-year age gap between our 2 MCs, 37 y/o Chef Jenn and 28 y/o Valentina who is seeking the sought-after opening at the renowned Michelin restaurant, Gia, owned by none other than Jenn. Plenty of diversity in the book, one which I wasn’t expecting. I’ll call this a slow burn/insta-love romance; slow-burn given that it passed the halfway mark of the book for Jenn and Val to finally acknowledge the attraction that they have with each other and they fell in love pretty quick. No dates for the couple but enough sexy time, some angst and a trip to Mexico to meet the parents 😊
Overall - enjoyable 4 ⭐️ read
Overall - enjoyable 4 ⭐️ read
February 29, 2024
There are times when I question what I was thinking. Why did I wear blue eyeshadow well into the 90's? Why did I think I was straight when my basketball apparel was way too extensive for a straight girl? Why has it taken me so long to read a Stephanie Shea book? I have now read Chef's Kiss and will be reading everything else she writes as soon as possible. I absolutely love this book!
Valentina Rosa De Leon (Val) has just earned a stage job at San Francisco's trendy restaurant, Gia, after graduating from the culinary institute. It's Val's dream job and the reason she moved from New York to San Fran, for the opportunity to learn from famed chef Jenn Coleman. Val lives with her roommate and best friend Zoe. She is determined to use this opportunity as a springboard to a head chef position in a few years. But she is unprepared for how her heart skips a beat at the sight of her enigmatic new boss.
Jenn Coleman owns two Michelin starred restaurants. She's a workaholic and a control freak. She has a thirteen year old son, Tommy, with her ex Rachel, who she is still friendly with. Jenn was always a workaholic. Being a woman of color in an industry dominated by white men precipitated some of her workaholic tendencies. After her mother's death from breast cancer, she further threw herself into her work to keep from dealing with the pain of the loss. Those who work for her call her Chef OCD behind her back and don't feel like they have a clue who she is because she keeps everyone at arms length. Only her right hand woman, Avery, and head chef Mel are somewhat privy to what lies behind the mask.
Val begins settling into her new position but wants to improve further. She asks Jenn if she can come in early to train even more. Jenn agrees to meet her a few hours early to help her. These meetings allows them a chance to get to know each other better to Jenn's dismay. She doesn't want to like the younger woman and she certainly doesn't want to be attracted to her. Val begins seeing a different side to her boss. Her sharp sense of humor and charming personality while chatting with Val's parents on the phone and most surprising of all, her vulnerability, when Val happens upon her having a near panic attack in her car after a concerning doctor appointment. Both know that it's a bad idea but attraction isn't so easily ignored.
Where to start with my feelings on this book! It's safe to say, I'm a bit in love with Jenn. I love a woman who overcomes personal tragedy to not only success in a male dominated industry, but maintains her morals. While many around her see Jenn as an ice queen she's really put herself in a position where her career defines who she is. She is a control freak, absolutely, but not to the point that she disregards others feelings. Jenn is just a strong woman who runs a tight ship. If she were a man she would be applauded for her strength and leadership. But so many women who demonstrate the same strength are looked down upon. Like pretty much any woman in American politics who runs for any elected position. We can't appear weak but can't appear too strong either.
Jenn is wonderful and it takes someone with Val's sweetness and persistence to break down some of her well cultivated walls. Val has a lot of hero worship in the beginning. Like if I suddenly started working with Cate Blanchett. I would be lead by the pedestal I have her on as a brilliant actress until I kissed her and we moved things into a more equal setting! ;-) It doesn't take long for Val to see the woman that Jenn really is and have her admiration turn into attraction and then more.
The supporting characters are all fantastic. Avery, who sees what's happening before anyone else at the restaurant and gives Jenn some unwanted, yet necessary advice. Tommy, Rachel and Zoe and even Val's parents on video call add so much to the story with their love and insight into these characters.
I love it when I discover an author whose writing seems like she's written twenty books instead of a few novels and novellas. Stephanie Shea writes like someone who is simply made to write. Her writing flows beautifully and she paints a picture that I can visualize perfectly in my mind. My only complaint is that I wish Chef's Kiss for longer because I wanted to spend more time with my girls Jenn and Val. I adore this book and I adore Stephanie Shea as an author. She is one to watch!
https://sapphicbookreview.com/review/...
Valentina Rosa De Leon (Val) has just earned a stage job at San Francisco's trendy restaurant, Gia, after graduating from the culinary institute. It's Val's dream job and the reason she moved from New York to San Fran, for the opportunity to learn from famed chef Jenn Coleman. Val lives with her roommate and best friend Zoe. She is determined to use this opportunity as a springboard to a head chef position in a few years. But she is unprepared for how her heart skips a beat at the sight of her enigmatic new boss.
Jenn Coleman owns two Michelin starred restaurants. She's a workaholic and a control freak. She has a thirteen year old son, Tommy, with her ex Rachel, who she is still friendly with. Jenn was always a workaholic. Being a woman of color in an industry dominated by white men precipitated some of her workaholic tendencies. After her mother's death from breast cancer, she further threw herself into her work to keep from dealing with the pain of the loss. Those who work for her call her Chef OCD behind her back and don't feel like they have a clue who she is because she keeps everyone at arms length. Only her right hand woman, Avery, and head chef Mel are somewhat privy to what lies behind the mask.
Val begins settling into her new position but wants to improve further. She asks Jenn if she can come in early to train even more. Jenn agrees to meet her a few hours early to help her. These meetings allows them a chance to get to know each other better to Jenn's dismay. She doesn't want to like the younger woman and she certainly doesn't want to be attracted to her. Val begins seeing a different side to her boss. Her sharp sense of humor and charming personality while chatting with Val's parents on the phone and most surprising of all, her vulnerability, when Val happens upon her having a near panic attack in her car after a concerning doctor appointment. Both know that it's a bad idea but attraction isn't so easily ignored.
Where to start with my feelings on this book! It's safe to say, I'm a bit in love with Jenn. I love a woman who overcomes personal tragedy to not only success in a male dominated industry, but maintains her morals. While many around her see Jenn as an ice queen she's really put herself in a position where her career defines who she is. She is a control freak, absolutely, but not to the point that she disregards others feelings. Jenn is just a strong woman who runs a tight ship. If she were a man she would be applauded for her strength and leadership. But so many women who demonstrate the same strength are looked down upon. Like pretty much any woman in American politics who runs for any elected position. We can't appear weak but can't appear too strong either.
Jenn is wonderful and it takes someone with Val's sweetness and persistence to break down some of her well cultivated walls. Val has a lot of hero worship in the beginning. Like if I suddenly started working with Cate Blanchett. I would be lead by the pedestal I have her on as a brilliant actress until I kissed her and we moved things into a more equal setting! ;-) It doesn't take long for Val to see the woman that Jenn really is and have her admiration turn into attraction and then more.
The supporting characters are all fantastic. Avery, who sees what's happening before anyone else at the restaurant and gives Jenn some unwanted, yet necessary advice. Tommy, Rachel and Zoe and even Val's parents on video call add so much to the story with their love and insight into these characters.
I love it when I discover an author whose writing seems like she's written twenty books instead of a few novels and novellas. Stephanie Shea writes like someone who is simply made to write. Her writing flows beautifully and she paints a picture that I can visualize perfectly in my mind. My only complaint is that I wish Chef's Kiss for longer because I wanted to spend more time with my girls Jenn and Val. I adore this book and I adore Stephanie Shea as an author. She is one to watch!
https://sapphicbookreview.com/review/...
May 20, 2023
Somehow the first over read from Shea. Really enjoyable!
This is the best “kitchen life” book I’ve ever read, it captures the dynamics of working back of the house perfectly. Without a ton of food description flare. I cooked in a kitchen for 16 years and this was accurate. That being said, it’s not super heavy into that topic but Shea has it there. It’s a romance, funny and charming, great MCs and secondary characters.
I did feel like this could have been a longer book. Everything is there, but could be expanded. That being said, there is a ton of room for growth for Shea and I look forward to reading more from her.
This is the best “kitchen life” book I’ve ever read, it captures the dynamics of working back of the house perfectly. Without a ton of food description flare. I cooked in a kitchen for 16 years and this was accurate. That being said, it’s not super heavy into that topic but Shea has it there. It’s a romance, funny and charming, great MCs and secondary characters.
I did feel like this could have been a longer book. Everything is there, but could be expanded. That being said, there is a ton of room for growth for Shea and I look forward to reading more from her.
July 23, 2021
Such an enjoyable short story! Very entertaining! If you’re looking for something of that description then you should definitely check it out!
May 2, 2023
I am a stomach with legs so kitchen romance always attracts me. This book was way richer than a simple love at work romance thanks to its rich characters, especially Jenn. Jenn is not only a chef, she is a mother, and has a small yet strong support system with her ex and best friend. She was really intriguing. I don't know if I have ever read a character battle against their own feelings like that. She wants to keep control at all cost, to keep her anxiety at bay, but Valentina makes her loose control. So her first reflex is to fight her feelings. I was so angry at her at some point. But then, Shea totally shifts the dynamic, and seeing Jenn letting go afterwards, was quite warm to read. That's exactly the kind of trope I love and it was well written.
Cherry on the cake, I am always surprised in a positive way when authors don't take the third act fight path. It's my first book from Stephanie Shea and I really enjoyed it. Gonna dive right now in book two of Gia, a San Francisco Romance serie
Cherry on the cake, I am always surprised in a positive way when authors don't take the third act fight path. It's my first book from Stephanie Shea and I really enjoyed it. Gonna dive right now in book two of Gia, a San Francisco Romance serie
July 17, 2021
Workplace romance set in a Michelin star kitchen, delicious. I would have loved to hear more about the food, but that’s just me being too interested in food.
Jenn and Val are cute from the moment they meet and I am happy this story doesn’t follow the typical lesfic formula. I thought it would at some points, so I was happily surprised when it didn’t. The setting in San Francisco is nice as well, the city and its surroundings are on the top of the list of places to visit when this whole pandemic thing is over.
This was my first book by Shea and I found it a pleasurable read. I’ll pick up some more books by this author. It really fitted with my summer vibes and easy and comfortable reads mood.
Jenn and Val are cute from the moment they meet and I am happy this story doesn’t follow the typical lesfic formula. I thought it would at some points, so I was happily surprised when it didn’t. The setting in San Francisco is nice as well, the city and its surroundings are on the top of the list of places to visit when this whole pandemic thing is over.
This was my first book by Shea and I found it a pleasurable read. I’ll pick up some more books by this author. It really fitted with my summer vibes and easy and comfortable reads mood.
October 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this - totally lived their lives. Had enough angst to worry but never made me nervous. Recommended.
February 5, 2022
I loved everything about this book! Valentina and Jenn are both such well-rounded characters, I was rooting for them right from the start, and Jenn has just enough ice queen vibes to have me swooning. Wonderful!
March 1, 2025
Stephanie Shea’s Chef’s Kiss is an absolute delight—a decadent blend of ambition, passion, and slow-burn romance that left me completely captivated. This book delivers everything you could want in a sapphic love story: sizzling chemistry, a compelling workplace dynamic, and a grumpy/sunshine pairing that is simply irresistible.
Valentina Rosas is a force of nature, brimming with determination and raw talent as she steps into the high-pressure world of Gia, one of San Francisco’s most elite restaurants. Her energy is infectious, making her the perfect counterbalance to Jenn Coleman, the formidable and brilliant Michelin-starred chef who prefers perfecting her craft over dealing with people. The tension between them is immediate and electric—an intoxicating mix of professional respect and undeniable attraction.
Shea masterfully builds their relationship, layering it with stolen glances, heated moments in the kitchen, and just the right amount of push and pull. The age gap and boss-employee dynamic add complexity, but the romance is so well-developed that it feels organic rather than forced. And when things finally heat up? Let’s just say the steamy scenes are flawlessly executed—sensual, intense, and impossible to put down.
Adding to the experience, AJ Ferraro’s narration is chef’s kiss in its own right. Their delivery brings both Valentina and Jenn to life, capturing every bit of tension, tenderness, and heat between them. I alternated between listening and reading, and no matter how I experienced this story, I was completely hooked.
Beyond the romance, the book offers a rich and immersive look into the culinary world, with mouthwatering descriptions of food and the fast-paced energy of a professional kitchen. The side characters add warmth and depth, making Gia feel like a real, vibrant place.
From start to finish, Chef’s Kiss is a five-star experience—equal parts heartwarming, sexy, and addictive. Whether you’re here for the delicious food, the workplace tension, or the perfectly crafted romance, this book delivers in every way.
Valentina Rosas is a force of nature, brimming with determination and raw talent as she steps into the high-pressure world of Gia, one of San Francisco’s most elite restaurants. Her energy is infectious, making her the perfect counterbalance to Jenn Coleman, the formidable and brilliant Michelin-starred chef who prefers perfecting her craft over dealing with people. The tension between them is immediate and electric—an intoxicating mix of professional respect and undeniable attraction.
Shea masterfully builds their relationship, layering it with stolen glances, heated moments in the kitchen, and just the right amount of push and pull. The age gap and boss-employee dynamic add complexity, but the romance is so well-developed that it feels organic rather than forced. And when things finally heat up? Let’s just say the steamy scenes are flawlessly executed—sensual, intense, and impossible to put down.
Adding to the experience, AJ Ferraro’s narration is chef’s kiss in its own right. Their delivery brings both Valentina and Jenn to life, capturing every bit of tension, tenderness, and heat between them. I alternated between listening and reading, and no matter how I experienced this story, I was completely hooked.
Beyond the romance, the book offers a rich and immersive look into the culinary world, with mouthwatering descriptions of food and the fast-paced energy of a professional kitchen. The side characters add warmth and depth, making Gia feel like a real, vibrant place.
From start to finish, Chef’s Kiss is a five-star experience—equal parts heartwarming, sexy, and addictive. Whether you’re here for the delicious food, the workplace tension, or the perfectly crafted romance, this book delivers in every way.
May 6, 2023
Awesome
Sometimes a book either has little or no drama is just the right drink. This was really good, the chemistry between the MCs was really enticing. The story had some emotional parts that I liked even more. Mcs had really adorable and genuine interactions, I loved that.
Sometimes a book either has little or no drama is just the right drink. This was really good, the chemistry between the MCs was really enticing. The story had some emotional parts that I liked even more. Mcs had really adorable and genuine interactions, I loved that.
October 19, 2021
She just couldn’t afford to care. Then, an intern trips into her with faltering grace, patient eyes and a zeal for everything, especially a future in the kitchen, and God help her, she cared too much.
4.5 stars. Sometimes you read a book and you just become besotted with the characters and their romance, and this was that for me. I loved this!
This was a pretty short, simple f/f romance about a young chef who lands her dream job, kind of an internship, with a renowned chef who she's always admired. Valentina is a great mix of focused and relaxed and eager and super kind, and she's determined to make the best impression at the restaurant and with her new boss. Jenn is a bit older, divorced with a teenage son, not much of a people person, with an attitude that makes her seem cold/standoffish. But she and Valentina, after a bit of a rough start, end up cultivating the sweetest, sexist romance and I fell head over heels for them.
“I would show you everything about me, if you just asked.”
I loved every part of this story: Valentina's relationship with her parents and her best friend; Jenn's relationships with her ex-wife (I LOVE seeing relationships with exes in books that aren't all about jealousy and toxicity; they both handled themselves like mature adults who loved their kid, and it was so refreshing); seeing the ins and outs of life in a restaurant. Even though this is on the short side, it felt fully realised, and not really rushed at all. None of the conflict felt outsized or inappropriate for the book. I can't stress how much I adored these two women: Jenn isn't quite grumpy, but broody in a way that masks her awkwardness, and I LOVED how Valentina could make her flustered. Valentina herself is a new book crush for sure. And I also loved how this touched on being women of colour in a field that's dominated by white men.
I did feel like the author could have done more to really integrate the B-plot (which I really liked and appreciated) into the book as a whole, and I kinda wish we got more restaurant scenes, because the ones that we did get were so interesting! Otherwise, this was a complete winner for me, and I'm very glad to have found this author. I'll be checking out more of her work soon, hopefully!
Content warnings: .
“Who even are you?”
She held Jenn closer, tighter, lips against Jenn’s ear when she whispered, “Yours.”
dnf
November 22, 2022DNF 47%
Fairly well written, however, it made me really uncomfortable when Valentina decided to show up at her bosses home, unannounced to confront her after a romantic interlude when it was obvious, her boss needed some space. I don’t know why that bugs me so much but it really did , I have a feeling it probably wouldn’t be a blip on others radar so it’s probably just me being overly sensitive.
I would probably give another book by this author, a chance. This one’s just not working for me, though, so moving on!
Fairly well written, however, it made me really uncomfortable when Valentina decided to show up at her bosses home, unannounced to confront her after a romantic interlude when it was obvious, her boss needed some space. I don’t know why that bugs me so much but it really did , I have a feeling it probably wouldn’t be a blip on others radar so it’s probably just me being overly sensitive.
I would probably give another book by this author, a chance. This one’s just not working for me, though, so moving on!
September 1, 2021
"Chefs kiss" is a great story set in the world of a Michelin star kitchen in San Francisco.
This is my first book by Stephanie Shea and I love that there is so much diversity and representation in the different characters. I've actually never read a book like this.
The two main characters Valentina and Jenn are easy to like and so are most of the side characters.
They communicate well with each other and don't behave immature.
The writing style and pace of the story are great, there is not too much drama and it's an entertaining read.
This is my first book by Stephanie Shea and I love that there is so much diversity and representation in the different characters. I've actually never read a book like this.
The two main characters Valentina and Jenn are easy to like and so are most of the side characters.
They communicate well with each other and don't behave immature.
The writing style and pace of the story are great, there is not too much drama and it's an entertaining read.
October 27, 2021
As a member of Jae's Facebook group I've found so many interesting books that have been recommended by other members. This is one of them.
The premise immediately hooked me in - an up and coming chef who gets the experience of a lifetime when she's given an opportunity to work with a Michelin star chef. Add in that there is a romance that develops between her and the executive chef and I was hooked. This book was well and truly great.
The story development, let alone the romance, was fantastic. I loved following Val's experience in the kitchen and her interactions with the other staff working at Gia. Jenn was a great character, who I could've kept reading about for a lot longer than what was provided to me in this book. She was intriguing - ambitious, kind, family focussed but then also a perfectionist that had a personal drive that would be unmatched for most. I think the pairing with Val was done very well here, as she softened Jenn slightly but then also challenged her as well. I absolutely loved the power dynamics in their relationship too.
I loved reading about being in a professional kitchen, as well as working for a Michelin star establishment. I haven't read anything similar in lesfic, but its something that I've experienced on a smaller scale and would love to read more stories similar to this. (Side point: if you have any other recommendations that feature this backdrop, please let me know!). I spent 10 years working in fine dining establishments and dating an up and coming chef that worked these crazy hours so it was like stepping back in time. :)
The one part that I found difficult while reading was that at certain points I wasn't sure which 'she' the author was referring to. For instance, the 'she' that was speaking, or the 'she' that was doing an action. Small issues though in the grand scheme of things, as the story itself was exceptional.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Stephanie Shea in the future.
The premise immediately hooked me in - an up and coming chef who gets the experience of a lifetime when she's given an opportunity to work with a Michelin star chef. Add in that there is a romance that develops between her and the executive chef and I was hooked. This book was well and truly great.
The story development, let alone the romance, was fantastic. I loved following Val's experience in the kitchen and her interactions with the other staff working at Gia. Jenn was a great character, who I could've kept reading about for a lot longer than what was provided to me in this book. She was intriguing - ambitious, kind, family focussed but then also a perfectionist that had a personal drive that would be unmatched for most. I think the pairing with Val was done very well here, as she softened Jenn slightly but then also challenged her as well. I absolutely loved the power dynamics in their relationship too.
I loved reading about being in a professional kitchen, as well as working for a Michelin star establishment. I haven't read anything similar in lesfic, but its something that I've experienced on a smaller scale and would love to read more stories similar to this. (Side point: if you have any other recommendations that feature this backdrop, please let me know!). I spent 10 years working in fine dining establishments and dating an up and coming chef that worked these crazy hours so it was like stepping back in time. :)
The one part that I found difficult while reading was that at certain points I wasn't sure which 'she' the author was referring to. For instance, the 'she' that was speaking, or the 'she' that was doing an action. Small issues though in the grand scheme of things, as the story itself was exceptional.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Stephanie Shea in the future.
February 19, 2022
What an incredible read by Stephanie Shea. I have read several things by Shea from short stories to a novella. This full length novel was great.
I thought Shea did very good with the character development and background of the characters. She didn’t focus too much on the emotional connection of the main characters and that is likely the only thing I would have liked to read more about. Otherwise, the chemistry of the the MCs was of the charts.
If you are looking for an entertaining and low angst romance this is the book for you.
I am excited to read the next installment of this book coming out very soon.
I thought Shea did very good with the character development and background of the characters. She didn’t focus too much on the emotional connection of the main characters and that is likely the only thing I would have liked to read more about. Otherwise, the chemistry of the the MCs was of the charts.
If you are looking for an entertaining and low angst romance this is the book for you.
I am excited to read the next installment of this book coming out very soon.
December 20, 2023
I don’t know why I haven’t read this sooner, it has been an my tbr for ages
I loved both Val And Jenn so much, Jenn deserves the world I swear 🥺🥺
I loved both Val And Jenn so much, Jenn deserves the world I swear 🥺🥺
February 19, 2022
4.25 stars. Stephanie Shea should definitely be more well-known! This is the first book I’ve read from her, but now it’s my mission to read everything she’s written. She’s a damn good writer — from her descriptions to her characters’ thoughts and dialogues, it’s clear that she knows how to engage the reader.
Chef’s Kiss features a lovely, opposites-attract pairing between two talented chefs. Valentina Rosas de Leon (28, Mexican American) is the vivacious new stage at Gia, San Francisco, an upscale Italian-Mexican fusion restaurant. I love that she decided to take her life in a new direction in her mid-20’s, and that she embraces being both self-assured and vulnerable. Jenn Coleman (37, Black, biracial) is Val’s new boss and longtime idol/crush. Aside from being a brilliant chef, Jenn also is the mom of a thirteen-year-old son and has a good co-parenting relationship with her ex-wife. Due to past trauma, though, she’s built up a wall of stoicism and control. I ADORED the chemistry between Jenn and Val and thought they quite literally fit perfectly together. Each is confident where the other is insecure, and the balance of power in the intimate scenes is just perfection.
Basically, I thought everything about this book — including main character backstories and side characters — was stellar except for the pacing. I thought the relationship moved a bit too fast and wish we were given more of a buildup. It’s kinda both slow-burn and insta-love, which doesn’t really work for me. For a pairing with such ridiculously good chemistry, I just wanted more from the romance. On the flip side, I thought the book started off a little slow and I could have done without so much page time dedicated to Landon, the slightly himbo-ish, slightly annoying chef at Gia. I did, however, appreciate the lack of a formulaic 80% dark moment.
In short, despite my gripes, Chef’s Kiss is a wonderful romance with stellar writing and a main paring I adored. I’m excited to read the next book in the series, which will feature Avery, HR director at Gia and Jenn’s best friend!
content warnings: panic attack, graphic sex, cancer scare, death of a parent from cancer (past), parental disownment, transphobia, blood/fear of blood, medical stuff, teenage homelessness
Chef’s Kiss features a lovely, opposites-attract pairing between two talented chefs. Valentina Rosas de Leon (28, Mexican American) is the vivacious new stage at Gia, San Francisco, an upscale Italian-Mexican fusion restaurant. I love that she decided to take her life in a new direction in her mid-20’s, and that she embraces being both self-assured and vulnerable. Jenn Coleman (37, Black, biracial) is Val’s new boss and longtime idol/crush. Aside from being a brilliant chef, Jenn also is the mom of a thirteen-year-old son and has a good co-parenting relationship with her ex-wife. Due to past trauma, though, she’s built up a wall of stoicism and control. I ADORED the chemistry between Jenn and Val and thought they quite literally fit perfectly together. Each is confident where the other is insecure, and the balance of power in the intimate scenes is just perfection.
Basically, I thought everything about this book — including main character backstories and side characters — was stellar except for the pacing. I thought the relationship moved a bit too fast and wish we were given more of a buildup. It’s kinda both slow-burn and insta-love, which doesn’t really work for me. For a pairing with such ridiculously good chemistry, I just wanted more from the romance. On the flip side, I thought the book started off a little slow and I could have done without so much page time dedicated to Landon, the slightly himbo-ish, slightly annoying chef at Gia. I did, however, appreciate the lack of a formulaic 80% dark moment.
In short, despite my gripes, Chef’s Kiss is a wonderful romance with stellar writing and a main paring I adored. I’m excited to read the next book in the series, which will feature Avery, HR director at Gia and Jenn’s best friend!
content warnings: panic attack, graphic sex, cancer scare, death of a parent from cancer (past), parental disownment, transphobia, blood/fear of blood, medical stuff, teenage homelessness
September 15, 2021
Never too late to live your dream!
Valentina is dreaming big and when she gets the opportunity she has always wanted nothing is going to stand in her way. That is until she meets Jenn Coleman, a renowned chef and Val’s new boss. When Jenn realises she might have feelings for her newest recruit, Val, the chemistry between them starts to put Jenn on edge, and with so much at stake, she has to decide if it is worth everything to get involved with Val.
An intense and dramatic culinary tale. Both Jenn and Valentina are determined, strong characters with a will to succeed but as usually, emotions and feelings can throw all of that into jeopardy. The complication the workplace hierarchy, morals and age-gap mean Jenn is torn and I loved that most of the conflict landed in her lap. Valentina was so ambitious she was willing to take risks to have everything she wanted, where Jenn, slightly older was more reserved and assessing the risks with a bit more considerations.
There was undeniable chemistry between them though. That tension was brewing from the moment Valentina arrived and continued to percolate throughout the story. It was Jenn leading the rollercoaster of emotion they were both enduring but I found it completely relatable. The dynamic between them, ambitious but with different approaches and goals made for interesting moral dilemmas they both had to navigate.
I really enjoyed the story and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a dramatic romance.
Valentina is dreaming big and when she gets the opportunity she has always wanted nothing is going to stand in her way. That is until she meets Jenn Coleman, a renowned chef and Val’s new boss. When Jenn realises she might have feelings for her newest recruit, Val, the chemistry between them starts to put Jenn on edge, and with so much at stake, she has to decide if it is worth everything to get involved with Val.
An intense and dramatic culinary tale. Both Jenn and Valentina are determined, strong characters with a will to succeed but as usually, emotions and feelings can throw all of that into jeopardy. The complication the workplace hierarchy, morals and age-gap mean Jenn is torn and I loved that most of the conflict landed in her lap. Valentina was so ambitious she was willing to take risks to have everything she wanted, where Jenn, slightly older was more reserved and assessing the risks with a bit more considerations.
There was undeniable chemistry between them though. That tension was brewing from the moment Valentina arrived and continued to percolate throughout the story. It was Jenn leading the rollercoaster of emotion they were both enduring but I found it completely relatable. The dynamic between them, ambitious but with different approaches and goals made for interesting moral dilemmas they both had to navigate.
I really enjoyed the story and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a dramatic romance.
Read
February 10, 2023DNF 40%
This just was not for me. I have a hard time with boss-employee relationship settings since there is a very clear power imbalance. I would have been convinced to push through but they threw in a surprise health scare and panic attack for the sole purpose of having the mains get closer.
This just was not for me. I have a hard time with boss-employee relationship settings since there is a very clear power imbalance. I would have been convinced to push through but they threw in a surprise health scare and panic attack for the sole purpose of having the mains get closer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2023
This is a reread for me. I don't know why I didn't write a review before (except I'm not good at them.). I found this as enjoyable the 2nd time as I did the first. The chemistry between Val and Jenn is so hot and immediate. Though Jenn fights it, because of what her father did to her mother in a workplace affair between boss and subordinate. But Jenns' not her father. I thoroughly found this very easy to read, and like eating a comfort food. Very satisfying. 5 stars!
March 18, 2022
a fun read. foodies rejoice :)
February 2, 2024
HEALTHY communication my beloved
July 3, 2023
3,5/5
Personally I believe that this book would had been sooo much better if Valentina wasn't doing all the work in getting them together.
I want a petition of her getting together with me🤷♀️
No seriously tho,Jenn was ALWAYS the one to fuck it up,to hurt Valentina, and ALWAYS was Valentina doing something about it,like I just wanted Valentina to have self respect, to stop running after Jenn,who was giving too many mixed feelings 🤦♀️
Personally I believe that this book would had been sooo much better if Valentina wasn't doing all the work in getting them together.
I want a petition of her getting together with me🤷♀️
No seriously tho,Jenn was ALWAYS the one to fuck it up,to hurt Valentina, and ALWAYS was Valentina doing something about it,like I just wanted Valentina to have self respect, to stop running after Jenn,who was giving too many mixed feelings 🤦♀️
February 12, 2024
Content warnings: boss/employee relationship, sexual content, references to homeless people - including a trans child (not a central plot line, but there are mentions), alcohol consumption, medical mentions - including finding lumps in breast, references to parent dying of cancer.
Rep: Jen (MC) is a cis, Black lesbian. Val (MC) is cis, Mexican-American and bisexual. Side POC characters. Side queer characters.
This was a quick and easy read. I enjoyed the romance for what it was. I enjoyed the majority of the book, and the characters within.
This is more like 3.5 for me.
Rep: Jen (MC) is a cis, Black lesbian. Val (MC) is cis, Mexican-American and bisexual. Side POC characters. Side queer characters.
This was a quick and easy read. I enjoyed the romance for what it was. I enjoyed the majority of the book, and the characters within.
This is more like 3.5 for me.
October 31, 2021
I didn't expect to enjoy it so much, but I do, and I love it! It makes me happy; it’s a comfort book😃
Both MCs are lovable. I especially adore Jenn, somehow she gives me a dorky vibe and it’s endearing. I love Stephanie Shea's writing style, and I’m so happy that there’s another new book that had just been published recently!
Both MCs are lovable. I especially adore Jenn, somehow she gives me a dorky vibe and it’s endearing. I love Stephanie Shea's writing style, and I’m so happy that there’s another new book that had just been published recently!
July 16, 2021
This romance had a lot of substance. I loved it. Stephanie Shea is a strong author who I look forward to their new releases.
Jae's SRC
character with everyday job
age gap romance
character of different ethnicity, culture, race than you
book starts with the first day of a new job
character works in the food industry
bisexual or pansexual character
character is a business owner
Jae's SRC
character with everyday job
age gap romance
character of different ethnicity, culture, race than you
book starts with the first day of a new job
character works in the food industry
bisexual or pansexual character
character is a business owner
October 28, 2023
I enjoyed it so much! I laughed, my eyes teared up, and I was rooting for the characters even when they were being dumb. Definitely a book worth a read!
September 3, 2022
Soft and sexy story that warmed my heart ! Def one of the favorite books
July 22, 2021
a short, sweet, easy read with queer women of color MCs ♥️ who I *really* wanted to kiss already… and they did!
loved the San Francisco setting and the restaurant inner workings, and the Spanish dialogues (with some typos but it didn’t detract at all from the storyline).
loved the San Francisco setting and the restaurant inner workings, and the Spanish dialogues (with some typos but it didn’t detract at all from the storyline).
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