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Tacos and True Love
✨ A swoony, food-filled romcom about a guarded food critic, a flirty chef, and one very dangerous bulgogi taco.
🎤 Evie Donovan is in Austin for one thing--to write a brutal restaurant exposé and get the hell out of town before anyone makes her sing karaoke. 🚫🎤
Evie Donovan has rules.
No karaoke
No eating food served from a truck
No falling for a guy who makes tacos taste like they’re love letters ♥♥♥
But then, she walks into Cornelia’s Bar on Taylor Thursday—and everything changes.
One bite of bulgogi taco, one Blue Hour cocktail, and one unexpected karaoke performance later, and she’s breaking all three.
Evie’s in Austin to write a restaurant exposé—not to crush on a man who serves kimchi fries with a side of vulnerability. But the more she tries to keep things “professional,” the more her notes start sounding suspiciously like a love story.
When this charming fusion food truck chef turns her love life from Sold Out to Slow Burn, they promise each other a temporary flirtation, not true love forever.
But some recipes are doomed to fail—and taste better for it!
Found Family. Flirty Fun. Feel-Good Smiles. Closed door-Open mic.
New romcom Taylor Thursdays at Cornelia’s!
Each book brings a new couple, new chaos, and Thursday night magic—where trivia gets personal, karaoke gets flirty, and falling in love might be the final round.
🎤 Evie Donovan is in Austin for one thing--to write a brutal restaurant exposé and get the hell out of town before anyone makes her sing karaoke. 🚫🎤
Evie Donovan has rules.
No karaoke
No eating food served from a truck
No falling for a guy who makes tacos taste like they’re love letters ♥♥♥
But then, she walks into Cornelia’s Bar on Taylor Thursday—and everything changes.
One bite of bulgogi taco, one Blue Hour cocktail, and one unexpected karaoke performance later, and she’s breaking all three.
Evie’s in Austin to write a restaurant exposé—not to crush on a man who serves kimchi fries with a side of vulnerability. But the more she tries to keep things “professional,” the more her notes start sounding suspiciously like a love story.
When this charming fusion food truck chef turns her love life from Sold Out to Slow Burn, they promise each other a temporary flirtation, not true love forever.
But some recipes are doomed to fail—and taste better for it!
Found Family. Flirty Fun. Feel-Good Smiles. Closed door-Open mic.
New romcom Taylor Thursdays at Cornelia’s!
Each book brings a new couple, new chaos, and Thursday night magic—where trivia gets personal, karaoke gets flirty, and falling in love might be the final round.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2025
40 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Chris Candie
4 books125 followersSlow-burn romcoms with sass, song lyrics, and found-family magic.
Chris Candie writes romantic comedies full of big feelings, sharp banter, and found family vibes. His Taylor Thursdays at Cornelia’s series mixes karaoke, trivia, and a little music magic with heartfelt, slow-burn love stories. Expect smart heroines, swoony moments, and the kind of humor that sneaks up on you between chapters. KU reader? You’re in the right place.
Chris’s books are set in cozy-but-vibrant Austin, Texas, where karaoke, trivia, and glittery surprises bring people together in unexpected ways. He believes the best love stories are about more than just romance—they’re about the people who cheer you on, the community you find along the way, and the moments that make you feel like you belong.
Readers can expect:
*Slow-burn chemistry
*Laugh-out-loud banter
*Heart-squeezing emotion
…all tied together with music, a mic, and a happy ending worth singing about.
When he’s not writing, Chris is usually deep in book research (sometimes in a bar, for science), gardening, or spending time with his dogs. He calls his fictional worlds “a love letter to Austin” and to the kind of places—and people—that make you feel like you’ve come home.
Follow on Goodreads to find out about new releases, post reviews and enter GiveAways
Chris Candie writes romantic comedies full of big feelings, sharp banter, and found family vibes. His Taylor Thursdays at Cornelia’s series mixes karaoke, trivia, and a little music magic with heartfelt, slow-burn love stories. Expect smart heroines, swoony moments, and the kind of humor that sneaks up on you between chapters. KU reader? You’re in the right place.
Chris’s books are set in cozy-but-vibrant Austin, Texas, where karaoke, trivia, and glittery surprises bring people together in unexpected ways. He believes the best love stories are about more than just romance—they’re about the people who cheer you on, the community you find along the way, and the moments that make you feel like you belong.
Readers can expect:
*Slow-burn chemistry
*Laugh-out-loud banter
*Heart-squeezing emotion
…all tied together with music, a mic, and a happy ending worth singing about.
When he’s not writing, Chris is usually deep in book research (sometimes in a bar, for science), gardening, or spending time with his dogs. He calls his fictional worlds “a love letter to Austin” and to the kind of places—and people—that make you feel like you’ve come home.
Follow on Goodreads to find out about new releases, post reviews and enter GiveAways
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
September 16, 2025
So, I entered a giveaway for Love Notes and Power Chords and won not realizing it was the latest book in a series until I won. I figured I'd start with this one and work my way to it. I'm glad I did, even if it doesn't follow the same couple.
Evie's journey was incredible. The fact that I unknowingly stumbled onto an author who loves Taylor Swift as much, if not more than I do, was a plus. Reading her story was a heartfelt, touching journey from beginning to end. The references to Taylor's lyrics were perfectly executed. Her inner monologue was spectacular. James was an amazing character. He was genuinely kind and sweet. I absolutely fell for him from the moment he's introduced. His easygoing personality and his knowing smiles were perfectly fitted to him. I fell in love with their story, and yet I found myself genuinely interested in seeing more of the core four Evie met on that first night. I was invested in not only her story but theirs too. I walked in expecting a love story, and I got that and so much more. The emotional connection, the touching stories about their families, the family she finds in Austin, the support they each receive from their families. It all worked extremely well to create a wonderful novel.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next two books. 🙂
Evie's journey was incredible. The fact that I unknowingly stumbled onto an author who loves Taylor Swift as much, if not more than I do, was a plus. Reading her story was a heartfelt, touching journey from beginning to end. The references to Taylor's lyrics were perfectly executed. Her inner monologue was spectacular. James was an amazing character. He was genuinely kind and sweet. I absolutely fell for him from the moment he's introduced. His easygoing personality and his knowing smiles were perfectly fitted to him. I fell in love with their story, and yet I found myself genuinely interested in seeing more of the core four Evie met on that first night. I was invested in not only her story but theirs too. I walked in expecting a love story, and I got that and so much more. The emotional connection, the touching stories about their families, the family she finds in Austin, the support they each receive from their families. It all worked extremely well to create a wonderful novel.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next two books. 🙂
June 21, 2025
✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️
Tacos and True Love is a dazzling emotional and surprisingly heartfelt story that blends romance, a dash of food science and some artfully done Taylor Swift magic in a way that feels genuine and human.
The way Chris Candie describes everything, is incredible. From the food to the settings and our MFCs chaotic inner monologue, it is all so vividly written and really sets the scene. The food science nerding?! AMAZING, I didn’t know I needed food science in my romance, but I absolutely do. I have never read a romance that celebrates culinary geekery in such a fun and engaging way.
Evie is definitely the star of the show. Her inner monologue is a work of sarcastic, chaotic genius, the way she spirals emotionally while trying not to let it show? Felt so relatable. She’s messy in a way that feels real. Her emotional spirals and fear of being “too much” hit close to home. There is something so deeply comforting about seeing a character wrestle with all that and still find joy, love and a purpose.
Evie and James’ dynamic was fantastic, even more so because it wasn’t always smooth sailing. The “third act breakup” moment felt so raw and real, two people trying their best but fumbling through their own hang-ups, inability to fully trust and open up.
That scene had me aching for James’s POV. Just a little peek into what was going on in his head would’ve really balanced things out. We get some clarity later, but I definitely missed that insight into his quiet, thoughtful vibe.
The friendships in this book were such a surprise treat. The way Evie connects with people so quickly felt natural, warm, and refreshing, no dragged-out drama, just genuine connection.
I’m *really* hoping we get more from these side characters in future books, because I’m already invested in their stories and would love more background into how they became the “Core Four”.
I really enjoyed the whole book, but the pacing near the end felt a bit rushed, like everything had to be tied up in a neat little HEA bow. I would’ve loved more time for them to actually talk things through and show the growth that brought them back together.
One thing I was worried about? That the clear Taylor Swift theme would feel cheesy or too “in your face”, I was happily so wrong. It is done so skilfully, the references feeling so natural and woven into the story in a way that complimented rather than distracted from the main plot.
This is perfect for fans of character-driven romance with foodie flair and big feelings. I adored it.
Tacos and True Love is a dazzling emotional and surprisingly heartfelt story that blends romance, a dash of food science and some artfully done Taylor Swift magic in a way that feels genuine and human.
The way Chris Candie describes everything, is incredible. From the food to the settings and our MFCs chaotic inner monologue, it is all so vividly written and really sets the scene. The food science nerding?! AMAZING, I didn’t know I needed food science in my romance, but I absolutely do. I have never read a romance that celebrates culinary geekery in such a fun and engaging way.
Evie is definitely the star of the show. Her inner monologue is a work of sarcastic, chaotic genius, the way she spirals emotionally while trying not to let it show? Felt so relatable. She’s messy in a way that feels real. Her emotional spirals and fear of being “too much” hit close to home. There is something so deeply comforting about seeing a character wrestle with all that and still find joy, love and a purpose.
Evie and James’ dynamic was fantastic, even more so because it wasn’t always smooth sailing. The “third act breakup” moment felt so raw and real, two people trying their best but fumbling through their own hang-ups, inability to fully trust and open up.
That scene had me aching for James’s POV. Just a little peek into what was going on in his head would’ve really balanced things out. We get some clarity later, but I definitely missed that insight into his quiet, thoughtful vibe.
The friendships in this book were such a surprise treat. The way Evie connects with people so quickly felt natural, warm, and refreshing, no dragged-out drama, just genuine connection.
I’m *really* hoping we get more from these side characters in future books, because I’m already invested in their stories and would love more background into how they became the “Core Four”.
I really enjoyed the whole book, but the pacing near the end felt a bit rushed, like everything had to be tied up in a neat little HEA bow. I would’ve loved more time for them to actually talk things through and show the growth that brought them back together.
One thing I was worried about? That the clear Taylor Swift theme would feel cheesy or too “in your face”, I was happily so wrong. It is done so skilfully, the references feeling so natural and woven into the story in a way that complimented rather than distracted from the main plot.
This is perfect for fans of character-driven romance with foodie flair and big feelings. I adored it.
October 20, 2025
At first, when I was reading this, it felt sorta flat. I'm a huge Swiftie, but it felt like the tribute to Taylor was bigger than the plot. The characters didn't feel fleshed out.
But maybe that was a slow burn. By the end, I was completing wrapped up in the main characters and wanted them to figure it out. It felt so satisfying when they did.
Evie was a Culinary Institute of America dropout. The head chef made her feel like less than nothing, so now she was a food critic. She was in Austin to review a few food places in the area for a client. She goes to a bar that hosts a food truck and has Taylor Thursdays.
This is where she meets James, who owns the food truck, and the Core Four , who are Swifties that never miss Taylor Thursdays and become chosen family to Evie.
Evie is a bit of a control freak because of past hurts, so when she and James become attracted, she starts throwing up walls, saying that she is only there for a short time. She tried to keep the Core Four at arms length, too, but they were having none of it.
The Core Four basically take her life in their hands. They have a group chat with Evie and they somehow add Evie's mom and sister and, of course, James. Honestly, for all their hard work, they should be in the wedding.
James is a hard-working food truck owner who likes to experiment with combining flavors. He likes to mix different ethnic dishes with Austin flair. He takes all the chances that Evie wishes she could. When they come together to invent a new sauce, it gets really good, but then Evie pushes too hard with her control freak tendencies, and James pushes back with his own issues.
See, by this time, I was invested. When James's parents were there when Evie's mom was there, I knew it was getting good. Working in food myself, I couldn't help but feel the anxiety of getting food out quickly in that food truck scene. It was very realistically written.
So yes, in the end, the characters carried the story, and Taylor was just the garnish. I just had to relax and let the story tell itself.
But maybe that was a slow burn. By the end, I was completing wrapped up in the main characters and wanted them to figure it out. It felt so satisfying when they did.
Evie was a Culinary Institute of America dropout. The head chef made her feel like less than nothing, so now she was a food critic. She was in Austin to review a few food places in the area for a client. She goes to a bar that hosts a food truck and has Taylor Thursdays.
This is where she meets James, who owns the food truck, and the Core Four , who are Swifties that never miss Taylor Thursdays and become chosen family to Evie.
Evie is a bit of a control freak because of past hurts, so when she and James become attracted, she starts throwing up walls, saying that she is only there for a short time. She tried to keep the Core Four at arms length, too, but they were having none of it.
The Core Four basically take her life in their hands. They have a group chat with Evie and they somehow add Evie's mom and sister and, of course, James. Honestly, for all their hard work, they should be in the wedding.
James is a hard-working food truck owner who likes to experiment with combining flavors. He likes to mix different ethnic dishes with Austin flair. He takes all the chances that Evie wishes she could. When they come together to invent a new sauce, it gets really good, but then Evie pushes too hard with her control freak tendencies, and James pushes back with his own issues.
See, by this time, I was invested. When James's parents were there when Evie's mom was there, I knew it was getting good. Working in food myself, I couldn't help but feel the anxiety of getting food out quickly in that food truck scene. It was very realistically written.
So yes, in the end, the characters carried the story, and Taylor was just the garnish. I just had to relax and let the story tell itself.
June 24, 2025
This is a cute, quick, light read—but not too fast. There’s still that emotional connection that keeps it real and meaningful. You can feel the month passing as the familiarity grows between everyone. The conflict isn’t cliché: it’s not about cheating, class differences, or who’s better or worse. It’s the kind of conflict that happens in real life, with relatable consequences.
I especially loved the parts about food being the first love language, and how family isn’t about blood, but about those who share their secret recipes.
Being part of a multicultural household, and with adoption in our family, this really hit home. I truly loved this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
(Read ARC)
I especially loved the parts about food being the first love language, and how family isn’t about blood, but about those who share their secret recipes.
Being part of a multicultural household, and with adoption in our family, this really hit home. I truly loved this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
(Read ARC)
June 26, 2025
Chris Candie serves up a contemporary romance that is simply pure fun. I was immediately pulled into the story as if seated at a table at Cornelia's. The story moves fast enough to be consumed in one sitting but not so fast that you feel unsatisfied. The conflict is low angst but real world, and we see both Evie and James grow and change as a result of falling in love. What makes this story extra savory is the attention to detail - the food descriptions, the eclectic cast of supporting characters, the smoothly described ambiance, and the emotional nuances. Candie is a talented writer who's created an inviting world I can't wait to visit again.
July 4, 2025
To start, I am probably not the target audience for this book. I read it because I was in the mood for a shorter, light, fun Romance. And because it had tacos 🌮 in the title 🤣. The overall story was nice, the characters are all likable, and the couple had fun chemistry. There is a heavy "Taylor Swift" theme with this book. And while I like some of her songs and respect her as an artist, I am not a huge fan. The song lyrics and references went a bit over my head.
November 28, 2025
Loved this one. It was a clean and entertaining romance. They both had issues to solve. The only issue I had was why Taylor Swift music? There are better choices out there. Our main couple had great chemistry. This was a true delight to read. Loved the food theme and Ruby with her drinks. I can't wait to read more.
July 30, 2025
This is such a sweet collection of books. I'm looking forward to Chris Candies future releases. Perfect summer read.
September 15, 2025
Good. Recommended
October 17, 2025
Too much Taylor Swift. Perhaps the author should try to write a story not a love letter to Taylor Swift.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews