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Chef Pierre
Holly Walker had everything she’d ever dreamed about – a happy marriage and being mum to beautiful brown-eyed Emma - until an accident nineteen months ago tore her world apart. Now she's a widow and single mother to a boisterous little 7-year-old girl, looking for a new start. Ready to take the next step, Holly has found herself a job as a maître d' at Table One, a once-acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Sydney. But one extremely arrogant Frenchman isn't going to be easy to work with...
Twenty years ago, Pierre LeRoux came to Australia, following the stunning Aussie girl he'd fallen in love with and married. He and his wife put their personal lives on hold, determined for Pierre to take Sydney's culinary society by storm. Just as his bright star was on the upswing, tragedy claimed the woman he was hopelessly in love with. He had been known as a Master Chef, but since his wife’s death he has become known as Monster Chef.
Can two broken people rebuild their lives and find happiness once more?
Twenty years ago, Pierre LeRoux came to Australia, following the stunning Aussie girl he'd fallen in love with and married. He and his wife put their personal lives on hold, determined for Pierre to take Sydney's culinary society by storm. Just as his bright star was on the upswing, tragedy claimed the woman he was hopelessly in love with. He had been known as a Master Chef, but since his wife’s death he has become known as Monster Chef.
Can two broken people rebuild their lives and find happiness once more?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2015
31 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Margaret McHeyzer
51 books1,180 followersNEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING AUTHOR OF UGLY AND MISTRUST
I’m a two-time New York Times bestselling author for my stand-alone books Ugly and Mistrust. To date I’ve published over 30 books!
I’m first generation Australian born and live in Sydney with my husband, two daughters and my rescue-dog, Kingston!
I love to write stories to connect my readers to my strong, courageous characters…with some spice sprinkled between the pages.
The characters I write about can pop into my mind anytime and anywhere. From the shower, to washing dishes, playing with my puppy or even in my dreams. My characters can sometimes be intrusive, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Thank you for taking this journey with me and I truly hope you love reading my stories as much as I love writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
March 18, 2015
Kitty's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
So, have you ever read a book by an author that you’ve never read before and fall madly in love with the story, the writing style and the author. I love when that happens and it definitely happened to me with “Monster Chef”.
Really, the name of the book got me. Visions of Gordon Ramsey swimming in my mind had me really curious about this book. But, this story held so much more than an angry Chef and the woman that steals his heart.
This is a story about love lost and then found again. About losing the one person you thought completed you only to find that there just may be another person out there, just as messed up and hurting as you are, that can heal you. It’s a story of mourning, grieving, healing … surviving the horrors of cancer and the accident that changes your life. It’s a story of two very strong-willed people coming together, forming a bond and the little girl that is the glue that holds it all together. As we watch Emma hold Holly and Pierre together and then learn of Pierre’s real addiction, you can’t help but cheer them both on and know that it will be an HEA filled with love and respect.
I absolutely, positively loved both Holly and Pierre (even when he was being a dick). Holly was a strong, vibrant woman who knew that life had to go one. Pierre was a lost soul that didn’t know how to move forward with his life without alcohol. Emma was just a sweet little girl and saw something more than the Monster Chef inside of Pierre. The supporting characters (Bronwyn and Angus; Eva and Stephen) bring this wonderful tale full circle and make us understand just what life can hold for us.
So, I found a new author to read. Yea! I found that the story that she wove and how she brought us into the lives of Holly and Pierre was just wonderful! Ms. McHeyzer definitely has a way with words and with moving a story along … a way of weaving a story that it’s absolutely seamless. Filled with love and some scorchingly hot scenes, Margaret McHeyzer had me saying “Oui, merci”.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
So, have you ever read a book by an author that you’ve never read before and fall madly in love with the story, the writing style and the author. I love when that happens and it definitely happened to me with “Monster Chef”.
Really, the name of the book got me. Visions of Gordon Ramsey swimming in my mind had me really curious about this book. But, this story held so much more than an angry Chef and the woman that steals his heart.
This is a story about love lost and then found again. About losing the one person you thought completed you only to find that there just may be another person out there, just as messed up and hurting as you are, that can heal you. It’s a story of mourning, grieving, healing … surviving the horrors of cancer and the accident that changes your life. It’s a story of two very strong-willed people coming together, forming a bond and the little girl that is the glue that holds it all together. As we watch Emma hold Holly and Pierre together and then learn of Pierre’s real addiction, you can’t help but cheer them both on and know that it will be an HEA filled with love and respect.
I absolutely, positively loved both Holly and Pierre (even when he was being a dick). Holly was a strong, vibrant woman who knew that life had to go one. Pierre was a lost soul that didn’t know how to move forward with his life without alcohol. Emma was just a sweet little girl and saw something more than the Monster Chef inside of Pierre. The supporting characters (Bronwyn and Angus; Eva and Stephen) bring this wonderful tale full circle and make us understand just what life can hold for us.
So, I found a new author to read. Yea! I found that the story that she wove and how she brought us into the lives of Holly and Pierre was just wonderful! Ms. McHeyzer definitely has a way with words and with moving a story along … a way of weaving a story that it’s absolutely seamless. Filled with love and some scorchingly hot scenes, Margaret McHeyzer had me saying “Oui, merci”.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
March 9, 2015
This is the love story of Pierre and Holly, two wounded souls who have suffered the loss of their spouses. Pierre is the head chef of the restaurant Table One where Holly is hired as a maître d'. Pierre is a French, arrogant, demanding, cocky man while Holly is a sweet, caring, smart woman with a 7 year old daughter. Their working relation is explosive and stormy. But we come to discover that there is actually a very thin line between hate and love.
Holly proves to be the one who can handle his outbursts and can awake emotions of love and caring in him that he had pushed away since his wife’s death from cancer. Holly and Pierre find a deep love and emotionally support each other, overcoming their grief.
This is a wonderful lovey-dovey story of two people who realize that love is the most powerful feeling we can’t seem to live without.
Quote: "We both are not strangers to wounded souls,” he whispers as he steps between my legs and sweeps my hair over my shoulders to my back. “We must let go of the hurt.” He kisses me once on my cheek. “Let us find our happiness.” Pierre moves to kiss me on the other cheek. “Together.” His mouth descends onto mine.
Thank you to United Indie Book Blog for a review copy of this book.
Holly proves to be the one who can handle his outbursts and can awake emotions of love and caring in him that he had pushed away since his wife’s death from cancer. Holly and Pierre find a deep love and emotionally support each other, overcoming their grief.
This is a wonderful lovey-dovey story of two people who realize that love is the most powerful feeling we can’t seem to live without.
Quote: "We both are not strangers to wounded souls,” he whispers as he steps between my legs and sweeps my hair over my shoulders to my back. “We must let go of the hurt.” He kisses me once on my cheek. “Let us find our happiness.” Pierre moves to kiss me on the other cheek. “Together.” His mouth descends onto mine.
Thank you to United Indie Book Blog for a review copy of this book.
March 21, 2015
I think everyone needs an arrogant, pigheaded chef in their life.
Pierre is a chef, a great chef but because of his attitude is known as the Monster Chef. He lost the love of his life and doesn't know how to survive without her. He is known for making people cry and quit and sometimes both at the same time. Then one day his dark world is turned upside down by one Holly Walker.
Holly is no stranger to loss, she lost her husband is just starting to put her world back together. One of the steps in taking her life back involves her going back to work and of course she finds herself working at the restaurant with the Monster Chef. But just because she is just starting out again doesn't mean she is going to take any crap from the Monster.
Oh...they just tickled me. It was awesome; he the arrogant jerk and she the insufferable woman. They both are hiding in places deep within themselves. But if the loss taught them anything it is to live life to its fullest because tomorrow you may not get the chance.
The story was well written and the depth of their loss, especially Pierre's was really soul shattering. Pierre while a complete jerk at times is also a passionate man. His mood changes where swift enough to give me whiplash, but his mouth made me melt. Holly while I enjoyed her ability to stand up for herself and give Pierre a run for his money, she was a little too quick to judge and at times didn't have as much depth. There story was sweet and spicy. Their banter was most engaging and made me laugh out loud. It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more by this author. She has a real poetic with her writing that allows you to feel the story on deeper level and I quite hooked.
March 25, 2015
Genial! French for brilliant. I loved this book. The story captured me from the very first page. Reading about Holly and Pierre. Holly a single mum, daughter Emma aged 7 years old. Holly decides to go back to work, the timing feels right and she wants to do something with her life. She is an absolute great mother to Emma. They both live with Holly's mother in law, Bromwyn. She is a lovely woman, she wants nothing more than Holly and Emma to be happy. Sometimes in life you have to take a risk or you will never know and always wonder what if, plus it could be the best decision you ever made. Pierre works in a restaurant as head chef, he's arrogant, rude, over bearing, moody, oh the list is endless. He's had a lot to deal with but is this a good enough excuse to behave in such a way towards others?. I think maybe he didn't care about his attitude because he almost stop living in the same world as everyone else. Literally going to work to create his recipes then back home to find oblivion. All the waiting staff find him very attractive but he pays them no attention. Holly ends up having to work with Pierre, Pierre doesn't want to work with Holly, she basically doesn't care about his attitude, she has a job to do and she's going to do it, no matter what he says. This story is about giving and receiving second chances in life. A second chance at love. Two people who deserve happiness but are frightened to take the risk. Pierre can not only cook up a storm in his kitchen, he's explosive in the bedroom. Oui, the man is French and passionate. I would definitely recommend this book.
March 20, 2015
3 Stars just OK for me
I read yesterday and it was just ok for me. I think what bothered me was that I felt no real development between the two of them. One minute they hate each other and the next, bam...I was like what and how did this happen so fast, so fast I didn't even know it or see it really happen.... There was no build-up for me. I thought it was a great premise for a story but I didn't care for the execution... Holly was just ehhhh, ok, for me that was a big reason and Pierre was good but he didn't "grab" my attention much either.
Oh well, sometimes not everyone can connect to a book or the characters and this was one of those reads for me that just didn't do it! I still enjoy this author's work ad will definitely read from her in the future!
I read yesterday and it was just ok for me. I think what bothered me was that I felt no real development between the two of them. One minute they hate each other and the next, bam...I was like what and how did this happen so fast, so fast I didn't even know it or see it really happen.... There was no build-up for me. I thought it was a great premise for a story but I didn't care for the execution... Holly was just ehhhh, ok, for me that was a big reason and Pierre was good but he didn't "grab" my attention much either.
Oh well, sometimes not everyone can connect to a book or the characters and this was one of those reads for me that just didn't do it! I still enjoy this author's work ad will definitely read from her in the future!
December 22, 2015
I have never read anything by Margaret McHeyzer before, but I saw the book trailer for Chef Pierre and I had to read it, and I'm so glad I did.
Set in Sydney, Australia, Chef Pierre tells the story of single Mum Holly, who is trying to move on with her life after losing her husband several years before. She gets a maitre de job in an exclusive restaurant, where she meets head chef Pierre. Pierre is typical of what you hear about celebrity chefs. Moody, arrogant, full of himself and he treats everyone badly. Pierre is going through his own heartache, after his wife died he has been focused on his work, then going home to wallow in his grief and drinking until he passes out. He meets Holly and thinks he can walk all over her, but Holly, being the strong independent woman she is, doesn't take any of his crap and I loved it. Holly is a great leading lady, that a lot of women can relate to. She's very real, and a character that was easy relatable and very likeable. Her relationship with her mother in law was beautiful. Both grieving for their son and husband, but making it work for Holly's daughter, Emma.
Pierre soon realises he wants more from Holly, and we see his softer side as the 2 get together. I loved how the author wrote Pierre's language. I read it as he would say it, in a french accent.
His relationship with Emma was precious and I loved that he taught her to talk french and how to cook. Emma was a delight to read and one of my favourite supporting characters I've read in a long time
The scenes between Holly and Pierre are hot! The sexual tension at the beginning between them was hot! The sex scenes are hot! I won't spoil it, but you may never look at Lemon Meringue pie the same way again!
The story has a few twists and emotional parts that kept me reading till late at night. I loved the theme of the chef, one I have never read before, and I really enjoyed. Made me want to visit the restaurant, the food sounded amazing!
Margaret McHeyzer is an author I will definitely be reading more of. She has a gift for drawing readers in till the very end and Chef Pierre definitely won't be my last book from her.
5 edible stars!
Set in Sydney, Australia, Chef Pierre tells the story of single Mum Holly, who is trying to move on with her life after losing her husband several years before. She gets a maitre de job in an exclusive restaurant, where she meets head chef Pierre. Pierre is typical of what you hear about celebrity chefs. Moody, arrogant, full of himself and he treats everyone badly. Pierre is going through his own heartache, after his wife died he has been focused on his work, then going home to wallow in his grief and drinking until he passes out. He meets Holly and thinks he can walk all over her, but Holly, being the strong independent woman she is, doesn't take any of his crap and I loved it. Holly is a great leading lady, that a lot of women can relate to. She's very real, and a character that was easy relatable and very likeable. Her relationship with her mother in law was beautiful. Both grieving for their son and husband, but making it work for Holly's daughter, Emma.
Pierre soon realises he wants more from Holly, and we see his softer side as the 2 get together. I loved how the author wrote Pierre's language. I read it as he would say it, in a french accent.
His relationship with Emma was precious and I loved that he taught her to talk french and how to cook. Emma was a delight to read and one of my favourite supporting characters I've read in a long time
The scenes between Holly and Pierre are hot! The sexual tension at the beginning between them was hot! The sex scenes are hot! I won't spoil it, but you may never look at Lemon Meringue pie the same way again!
The story has a few twists and emotional parts that kept me reading till late at night. I loved the theme of the chef, one I have never read before, and I really enjoyed. Made me want to visit the restaurant, the food sounded amazing!
Margaret McHeyzer is an author I will definitely be reading more of. She has a gift for drawing readers in till the very end and Chef Pierre definitely won't be my last book from her.
5 edible stars!
March 6, 2015
MONSTER CHEF by Margaret McHeyzer
OUI!! Tis a good story!!!
Pierre & Holly
Let's talk about Monster Chef. This book was comical, sexy, and sometimes kind of corny. At times I felt it hard to relate to the characters and at others I felt a kindred spirit with them. My emotions were all over the grid on this one. I wouldn't exactly say that Pierre and Holly we're a perfect match, but they did make this story is very fascinating.
Pierre is a very cocky, self centered, arrogant bastard. I knew his anger was driven by something and at first I wasn't sure what, but still he was just as mean as can be. It was nice to see his transformation from a heartless prick to a controlling lovesick jerk. Funny because not much changed with him as far as his cocky attitude and controlling ways, but I still seemed to warm up to him a little bit.
Holly is all kinds of ooey gooey goodness. She's an excellent person inside and out and has good intentions but wants more from the life she's living. Problem is I'm not sure she knows how to get there. Don't mistake me, her kindness comes with a backbone and God that I love when she stood up to Pierre.
Great supporting character cast. That little shit Emma is so damn delightful and amusing and says the cutest things. I loved all the banter with all of the restaurant employees who knew Pierre and chuckled every time Holly would put him in his place. Even that sleazeball Angus the boss was ok sometimes.
Te pacing is good, but slow at times. sticks with it, it gets better. the dialogue flows fairly neutral although I could not connect with Pierre's French accent. It just made me laugh out loud so many times, basically every time he said something. This story deals with some moderately dark subjects of pain, loss, and starting over, but will leave your with that "feel good" smile on your face.
ARC provided by Margaret for an honest review (thanks!)
3.5 Stars
OUI!! Tis a good story!!!
Pierre & Holly
Let's talk about Monster Chef. This book was comical, sexy, and sometimes kind of corny. At times I felt it hard to relate to the characters and at others I felt a kindred spirit with them. My emotions were all over the grid on this one. I wouldn't exactly say that Pierre and Holly we're a perfect match, but they did make this story is very fascinating.
Pierre is a very cocky, self centered, arrogant bastard. I knew his anger was driven by something and at first I wasn't sure what, but still he was just as mean as can be. It was nice to see his transformation from a heartless prick to a controlling lovesick jerk. Funny because not much changed with him as far as his cocky attitude and controlling ways, but I still seemed to warm up to him a little bit.
Holly is all kinds of ooey gooey goodness. She's an excellent person inside and out and has good intentions but wants more from the life she's living. Problem is I'm not sure she knows how to get there. Don't mistake me, her kindness comes with a backbone and God that I love when she stood up to Pierre.
Great supporting character cast. That little shit Emma is so damn delightful and amusing and says the cutest things. I loved all the banter with all of the restaurant employees who knew Pierre and chuckled every time Holly would put him in his place. Even that sleazeball Angus the boss was ok sometimes.
Te pacing is good, but slow at times. sticks with it, it gets better. the dialogue flows fairly neutral although I could not connect with Pierre's French accent. It just made me laugh out loud so many times, basically every time he said something. This story deals with some moderately dark subjects of pain, loss, and starting over, but will leave your with that "feel good" smile on your face.
ARC provided by Margaret for an honest review (thanks!)
3.5 Stars
January 19, 2016
I loved this book it was the perfect blend of romance, emotional turmoil, and hot hot hot scenes. Monster Chef is a Second Chance at Love Romance; not for two long lost loves but for two people who had love and lost only to find it again with each other. I loved the book it splits the POV between the two main characters it was like listening Toni Collette and Gerard Depardieu in my head. Not looks wise; I was imagining two completely different people, it was described so well no celebrity imagining was needed. The dirty talking and erotic parts are very enticing. The story was emotional, but not so devastating I was in tears the whole time, I spend an equal amount of time laughing and wishing I could.. oh wait TMI.
Holly and Pierre have something in common they have both lost the loves of their lives. Pierre lost his wife to cancer; she was the woman he left France for and moved to Australia. He spent twenty years building his career up and after his wife died it was all he has. Holly lost her husband to a freak car accident and now she is left to raise her daughter all by herself. With her Mother-in-laws help watch her precocious daughter, Emma, she wants to find a job to give herself something to do. She applied for a waitress but was given the job of maitre'd because her past history and her ability to stand up to the ill tempered head chef. To Holly, Pierre is arrogant and to Pierre, Holly is insufferable. But when a customer gets out of hand and Holly lands in the hospital Pierre suddenly realizes she means more to him then he thought. Even her daughter Emma wins a place in his heart and immediately sets out to win them both over. Both Pierre and Holly have their issues to work through and their story about coming together is very touching, and Pierre's dirty talking is wow.
ARC review
*reviewed before the re edit when still titled Monster Chef*
Holly and Pierre have something in common they have both lost the loves of their lives. Pierre lost his wife to cancer; she was the woman he left France for and moved to Australia. He spent twenty years building his career up and after his wife died it was all he has. Holly lost her husband to a freak car accident and now she is left to raise her daughter all by herself. With her Mother-in-laws help watch her precocious daughter, Emma, she wants to find a job to give herself something to do. She applied for a waitress but was given the job of maitre'd because her past history and her ability to stand up to the ill tempered head chef. To Holly, Pierre is arrogant and to Pierre, Holly is insufferable. But when a customer gets out of hand and Holly lands in the hospital Pierre suddenly realizes she means more to him then he thought. Even her daughter Emma wins a place in his heart and immediately sets out to win them both over. Both Pierre and Holly have their issues to work through and their story about coming together is very touching, and Pierre's dirty talking is wow.
ARC review
*reviewed before the re edit when still titled Monster Chef*
May 6, 2015
Karia’s thoughts…and food order!
I was actually excited for this one, so I thank NetGalley for the delayed, but finally approved ARC. Holly seemed very American/Canadian to me. Her language usage and manners were quite North American…Pierre on the other hand was so French is was tasty!
Each of these wounded souls were looking for a new start. Along the way, they find each other and fight, then kiss, then fight, then kiss, then fight some more! I loved that part. I actually found myself enjoying the banter and wanted more of that. I could see where Pierre had fallen off course, but he was pulling himself out of it. Many people after losing a loved one descend into addictions, and sleeping pills are one of the most addictive drugs often prescribed after traumatic loss. The fact that Pierre gave up the pills on his own, showed to me that he was moving past his mourning.
Addition is a hard topic for me…as many readers of my reviews know. I didn’t get the feeling that he was an addict or an alcoholic, but more so that he was an extremely damaged man with a shattered heart. Addicts/Alcoholics know that first drink or first hit or first pull of the slot machine…they may not admit it to themselves but it is a common theme in recovery discussing that they are powerless to the addiction. Pierre used chemicals and scotch to wipe out his pain…different enough for me to move past it and see that he can heal, he can be a good father and he can be a partner of worth!
The story had a few head scratching moments were the angst was contrived for me…but the smexy times MORE than made up for the plot twist that I didn’t like. Pierre is SMOKING hawt and knows how to tell a woman that he wants to go exploring! This is a great fast read…but take my warning: Don’t read on an empty stomach and when Pierre serves dinner…be sure you are not in public! Enjoy!
I was actually excited for this one, so I thank NetGalley for the delayed, but finally approved ARC. Holly seemed very American/Canadian to me. Her language usage and manners were quite North American…Pierre on the other hand was so French is was tasty!
Each of these wounded souls were looking for a new start. Along the way, they find each other and fight, then kiss, then fight, then kiss, then fight some more! I loved that part. I actually found myself enjoying the banter and wanted more of that. I could see where Pierre had fallen off course, but he was pulling himself out of it. Many people after losing a loved one descend into addictions, and sleeping pills are one of the most addictive drugs often prescribed after traumatic loss. The fact that Pierre gave up the pills on his own, showed to me that he was moving past his mourning.
Addition is a hard topic for me…as many readers of my reviews know. I didn’t get the feeling that he was an addict or an alcoholic, but more so that he was an extremely damaged man with a shattered heart. Addicts/Alcoholics know that first drink or first hit or first pull of the slot machine…they may not admit it to themselves but it is a common theme in recovery discussing that they are powerless to the addiction. Pierre used chemicals and scotch to wipe out his pain…different enough for me to move past it and see that he can heal, he can be a good father and he can be a partner of worth!
The story had a few head scratching moments were the angst was contrived for me…but the smexy times MORE than made up for the plot twist that I didn’t like. Pierre is SMOKING hawt and knows how to tell a woman that he wants to go exploring! This is a great fast read…but take my warning: Don’t read on an empty stomach and when Pierre serves dinner…be sure you are not in public! Enjoy!
February 17, 2015
Losing his wife much too soon has made Pierre the Monster Chef he is now known to be. He’s cocky, arrogant, and a certifiable jerk! Even though his culinary talents have not suffered from his loss, he has practically given up on living life. Meeting Holly, and then her daughter, has regenerated his desire to find purpose and happiness again. Once he determines that Holly is the one that is capable of pulling him out of the darkness, there is no stopping him from convincing her that she belongs with him.
Holly has also suffered a major loss. Her husband was killed in an accident and she finds herself being the sole provider for herself and her daughter. When she accepted a job as a maître d’, she had no idea that she would be dealing with an angry and bitter Frenchman. She never expected to find a deep love again, especially not with someone like Pierre.
This story is a tale of two broken hearts discovering love again. This journey has some twists and turns and will take you through many different emotions. If you are looking for a standalone read with a happily ever after, then I recommend giving Monster Chef a taste.
November 1, 2015
Monster Chef would be my first read from Margaret McHeyzer and I have to say she didn't disappoint. I really liked this book! It's 'cute as hell' and it gave me a warm fuzzy kind of feeling inside.
I liked both hero and heroines as individuals and as a couple -- which is A plus for me. Holly's daughter, Emma is the cutest! She stole my heart.
The only thing that bothered me was the abruptness of Holly's and Pierre's romantic relationship. They were hot and cold in the beginning and all of a sudden he was kissing her. And not long after that he was ready to let her wife go. That strucked me as very odd.
I wish the author would just ease us up into their relationship. Also, I would really like to see more of Pierre's assholeness but he softened up very quickly. Not that I hated soft Pierre -- he's hot either way -- but his character growth was too abrupt, in my opinion.
:: Actual Rating = 3.5 / 5 ::
I liked both hero and heroines as individuals and as a couple -- which is A plus for me. Holly's daughter, Emma is the cutest! She stole my heart.
The only thing that bothered me was the abruptness of Holly's and Pierre's romantic relationship. They were hot and cold in the beginning and all of a sudden he was kissing her. And not long after that he was ready to let her wife go. That strucked me as very odd.
I wish the author would just ease us up into their relationship. Also, I would really like to see more of Pierre's assholeness but he softened up very quickly. Not that I hated soft Pierre -- he's hot either way -- but his character growth was too abrupt, in my opinion.
:: Actual Rating = 3.5 / 5 ::
March 17, 2015
This is the second book that I have ever read by Margaret and I must say that I am seriously fan girl crushing over her and her work. I have yet to be disappointed by her work and I look forward to reading more from her. This book what can I say WOW there are so many good things that I can say but I don't want to give anything away so all I'm going to say is please if you don't read another book make sure you read this. The story line will have you hooked from the beginning and this book will take you through so emotions and spit you out and than you will be glad that it did. I literally had to finish this book and I loved the way that it ended. Pierre was the perfect Alpha male and Holly kept you entertained the whole book. The back and forth that these two had was enough to heat up the sheets and keep you wanting more.
March 16, 2015
Wow, I enjoyed this book so much! The characters were so well written, I found myself feeling like I knew them and felt their pain. Pierre, Holly, and Emma were all such strong characters and woven together perfectly. At times you hate Pierre, love him, and then want to slap him. This story had me laughing at parts, crying at parts, and smiling throughout. I have never read anything by this author before, but if the rest of her stories are even remotely this good, they will be terrific and I look forward to reading them. It is amazing how loss can make you rethink your own life and how you live it, but the choices you make can also cause second chances at happiness harder or impossible. The secondary characters of Angus, the wait staff, and Bronwyn are threads that help this work shine even brighter. Even Eva and Stephen add depth to the story. I loved this!
March 8, 2015
OMG I loved Monster Chef! I loved Pierre and Holly and this is a love story! Pierre wasn't truly a monster just a man that was so hurt by the loss of his wife. So he was like a bear with a thorn in his paw! Holly aka (mon chéri)really knows how to handle Pierre and quickly puts him in his place. I don't think there will ever be a dull moment between the two of them.
Oh and Monster Chef is also very HOT! Talk about passion between Pierre & Holly.... oh my oh my! I loved the phone sex.....
I loved the ending of Monster Chef! I can't tell you because I don't do spoilers so you will just have to read Monster Chef! Oh and Margaret McHeyzer does that mean there will be more?
This ARC was received for an honest review and I loved Monster Chef I hope you will too!
Oh and Monster Chef is also very HOT! Talk about passion between Pierre & Holly.... oh my oh my! I loved the phone sex.....
I loved the ending of Monster Chef! I can't tell you because I don't do spoilers so you will just have to read Monster Chef! Oh and Margaret McHeyzer does that mean there will be more?
This ARC was received for an honest review and I loved Monster Chef I hope you will too!
April 26, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book. This is the first book I have read from this author and I found her style to be really enjoyable.
The story line was wonderful and it was great to read about two people who have suffered the loss of a loved partner move forward
into a new relationship. I loved the little added extras at the end of the book too. You will know what I mean after you have read the book.
It finished off the story nicely.Margaret McHeyzer will be added to my list of authors I wish to read more of.
The story line was wonderful and it was great to read about two people who have suffered the loss of a loved partner move forward
into a new relationship. I loved the little added extras at the end of the book too. You will know what I mean after you have read the book.
It finished off the story nicely.Margaret McHeyzer will be added to my list of authors I wish to read more of.
May 2, 2015
Margaret McHeyzer is a new author I happened to stumble upon and all I can say is I'm so glad I stumbled! It was quite refreshing to read about a love between a Chef & a Maítre D' who was recently hired on. I fell in love with Holly and honestly wasn't too sure of Pierre, but as I kept reading & started to find out more about him and his background, my love for him started to bloom!
I was so sad when I finished the book only because I wasn't ready to let them go!! I am definitely a new fan of Margaret's & will be recommending this book to my friends!!
I was so sad when I finished the book only because I wasn't ready to let them go!! I am definitely a new fan of Margaret's & will be recommending this book to my friends!!
April 30, 2015
4 heart-warming stars!
This book is of the feel-good type. If you want something uncomplicated and romantic, this is IT. That doesn't mean there aren't a few twists.
My favorite character was Emma, hands down. She's a sassy seven-year old that will own you heart from the moment you meet her.
My only issue with the writing was that Pierre's French got a little old when I was half-way through the book.
This book is of the feel-good type. If you want something uncomplicated and romantic, this is IT. That doesn't mean there aren't a few twists.
My favorite character was Emma, hands down. She's a sassy seven-year old that will own you heart from the moment you meet her.
My only issue with the writing was that Pierre's French got a little old when I was half-way through the book.
December 21, 2015
3.5 Stars
I really like this book exceeeeeeeeept the fact that it all moved so FAST. I think I would have been seriously head over heels for this one has the pace been slower. The setting is a welcome change, Holly is a great heroine, and Pierre is just to melt for. Just tap the brakes a bit, and I would have been gushing over this one.
I really like this book exceeeeeeeeept the fact that it all moved so FAST. I think I would have been seriously head over heels for this one has the pace been slower. The setting is a welcome change, Holly is a great heroine, and Pierre is just to melt for. Just tap the brakes a bit, and I would have been gushing over this one.
June 8, 2017
Alpha Male - Yes Please
Monster Chef is all about two lost souls finds big a second chance at love with each other. If you like Alpha males - Pierre fits it to a tee. He is all rough and demanding but also shows his sweet sides too. Loved this book.
Monster Chef is all about two lost souls finds big a second chance at love with each other. If you like Alpha males - Pierre fits it to a tee. He is all rough and demanding but also shows his sweet sides too. Loved this book.
March 21, 2015
A must!!! Don't hesitate one-click you won't be disappointed
March 18, 2015
I am sure there is probably a spoiler in here. You have been warned.
This is my first book by Author Margaret McHeyzer and it most certainly will not be my last! I devoured this book in two days. When I had to put the book down the characters were on my mind.
I fell in love with Margaret’s writing style, the vivid descriptions sucked me like I are part of her story. Her characters came to life as Holly went toe-to-toe with chef Pierre.
This book really had it all for me. Sexual tension to drove me mad! A plot that unfolded beautifully as the characters discovered love and acceptance in someone as broken as they were. And funny! The character’s had me rolling on numerous occasions.
Now let’s talk about these characters, Holly Walker was a woman who was trying to survive the death of her husband while caring for her daughter. She was merely going through the motions of life. She had my heart breaking when she talk about how her husband. Her love for him was unconditional.
What Holly did not expect was an over zealous, pompous chef to throw her for a loop. When these two first met I was laughing at how Holly put Pierre in his place. There was no way he was walking all over her.
When Holly realized their relationship was changing into something more than friendship Pierre always had the right thing to say. I was always swooning right along with her. Even when she would tell him to stop being a controlling alpha male. She may have loved how protective he was but when is bossiness came out she would not stand for it.
“Oui, next Tuesday is acceptable, but it is me who will take you out.” He ‘s gone all chivalrous and alpha on me.
Pierre might have been a total butt to everyone, but the moment Holly walked into the picture his demeanor started to change. I loved watching him start to mellow and love again. He had a heart of gold under all that grouchiness. And lord mercy! When Pierre spoke to his dead wife I would either tear up or swoon at the love he still had for her. Looking to Eva for guidance with Holly and Emma I was a goner.
And when Pierre was not making me a swooning mess, he was making me a squirming mess. His filthy mouth and vivid thoughts were nothing short of HOT! He wanted Holly and did not hide it. The things he would say to her either set her cheeks on fire or groaning. He did not care if others were around when he showed his affection. He wanted her to know where he stood.
Pierre loved caring for Holly, he did not care what anyone thought. He wanted her and that was that. He would show her his love was real one day at a time. And when he finally got to meet Holly’s daughter Emma he knew they were it for him. He was home.
Emma and Pierre’s bond had me swooning. I think Emma was the only person who could really put Pierre in his place. She loved him unconditionally with no strings attached. She wanted him to be her dad. Watching Pierre teach Emma how to cook was adorable. She listened to everything he had to say.“Is it you making all that racket, ma petite?” I asked as I fling the door open.
“Oui, I thought you weren’t here.”
I chuckle at Emma and her use of my french ‘yes.’
I must say little Emma stole the show more than once with her innocence and love of life. She was absolutely adorable.
By the end of this story I was already mourning that it was over. I wanted more. I really hope that Margaret continues this story one day. I can see it going a many different ways. HINT HINT!
September 20, 2015
Title: Monster Chef
Author: Margaret McHeyzer
Publisher/Year: Book Enthusiast Productions 3/18/15
Length: 2508 pages
Overview
Holly Walker had everything she’d ever dreamed about – a happy marriage and being mum to beautiful brown-eyed Emma - until an accident nineteen months ago tore her world apart. Now she's a widow and single mother to a boisterous little 7-year-old girl, looking for a new start. Ready to take the next step, Holly has found herself a job as a maître d' at Table One, a once-acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Sydney. But one extremely arrogant Frenchman isn't going to be easy to work with...
Twenty years ago, Pierre LeRoux came to Australia, following the stunning Aussie girl he'd fallen in love with and married. He and his wife put their personal lives on hold, determined for Pierre to take Sydney's culinary society by storm. Just as his bright star was on the upswing, tragedy claimed the woman he was hopelessly in love with. He had been known as a Master Chef, but since his wife’s death he has become known as Monster Chef.
Can two broken people rebuild their lives and find happiness once more?
My Thoughts
First off i should thank the folks at Netgalley for getting me a copy of this. I'm a sucker for good cover art and that paired with the title - i was hooked as soon as i saw it. What we have here is a very expected yet sweet story of our two mains who are both very broken from a similar situation, finding that they can heal one another if they allow it.
Holly is a single mother who's moved in with her mother in law after her husband was killed in a car accident about 2 years prior. She's doing everything that she can to raise her daughter Emma properly, and while she doesn't need to work since her husband provided enough for her, she's going back to it - at a restaurant in the city.
Enter Pierre, the hard to deal with head chef who's won and lost a michelin star in a matter of a year and while he is an AMAZING chef - he's chasing the ghost of his wife who passed away a few years prior from cancer.
Of course you know though that upon meeting, and seeing that Holly won't stand down, well things are going to combust, and i'm glad in the way that they did. See it's not the tension that gets to them, although there's one night that Pierre actually accosts her at the restaurant, it's a situation that Holly is faced with by a drunk diner that puts Pierre back in time to the night that he met his late wife, and from there our story unfolds.
It's not terribly deep and complex, but i have to say that i didn't need it to be. The story developed on it's own in a nice way - you see that Holly is a realist of sorts and is semi afraid to let what she's feeling for Pierre happen since she's so protective of her family, but you also know that Pierre is going to get what he wants since he's a 'passionate Frenchman'.
It's really not until the latter 30% of the book that we get any twists and turns. We knew that there was a great bond between Holly and her mother in law and the ending that we see happen there was unexpected. Then there's a link between Pierre and Holly's late husband that i wasn't expecting at all.
So all in all, a predictable story - but one that was well written. It was the epilogue that i have to say i really enjoyed. We get a fast forward about 10 years when Emma is grown up and i think that the glimpse into things that we see is something that makes things resolve as needed.
Author: Margaret McHeyzer
Publisher/Year: Book Enthusiast Productions 3/18/15
Length: 2508 pages
Overview
Holly Walker had everything she’d ever dreamed about – a happy marriage and being mum to beautiful brown-eyed Emma - until an accident nineteen months ago tore her world apart. Now she's a widow and single mother to a boisterous little 7-year-old girl, looking for a new start. Ready to take the next step, Holly has found herself a job as a maître d' at Table One, a once-acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Sydney. But one extremely arrogant Frenchman isn't going to be easy to work with...
Twenty years ago, Pierre LeRoux came to Australia, following the stunning Aussie girl he'd fallen in love with and married. He and his wife put their personal lives on hold, determined for Pierre to take Sydney's culinary society by storm. Just as his bright star was on the upswing, tragedy claimed the woman he was hopelessly in love with. He had been known as a Master Chef, but since his wife’s death he has become known as Monster Chef.
Can two broken people rebuild their lives and find happiness once more?
My Thoughts
First off i should thank the folks at Netgalley for getting me a copy of this. I'm a sucker for good cover art and that paired with the title - i was hooked as soon as i saw it. What we have here is a very expected yet sweet story of our two mains who are both very broken from a similar situation, finding that they can heal one another if they allow it.
Holly is a single mother who's moved in with her mother in law after her husband was killed in a car accident about 2 years prior. She's doing everything that she can to raise her daughter Emma properly, and while she doesn't need to work since her husband provided enough for her, she's going back to it - at a restaurant in the city.
Enter Pierre, the hard to deal with head chef who's won and lost a michelin star in a matter of a year and while he is an AMAZING chef - he's chasing the ghost of his wife who passed away a few years prior from cancer.
Of course you know though that upon meeting, and seeing that Holly won't stand down, well things are going to combust, and i'm glad in the way that they did. See it's not the tension that gets to them, although there's one night that Pierre actually accosts her at the restaurant, it's a situation that Holly is faced with by a drunk diner that puts Pierre back in time to the night that he met his late wife, and from there our story unfolds.
It's not terribly deep and complex, but i have to say that i didn't need it to be. The story developed on it's own in a nice way - you see that Holly is a realist of sorts and is semi afraid to let what she's feeling for Pierre happen since she's so protective of her family, but you also know that Pierre is going to get what he wants since he's a 'passionate Frenchman'.
It's really not until the latter 30% of the book that we get any twists and turns. We knew that there was a great bond between Holly and her mother in law and the ending that we see happen there was unexpected. Then there's a link between Pierre and Holly's late husband that i wasn't expecting at all.
So all in all, a predictable story - but one that was well written. It was the epilogue that i have to say i really enjoyed. We get a fast forward about 10 years when Emma is grown up and i think that the glimpse into things that we see is something that makes things resolve as needed.
March 17, 2015
Pierre and Holly have both lost their respective spouses within the past few years, but they are handling their losses differently. Pierre has lost his creative edge and his civility causing everyone who has to interact with him to give him the nickname Monster Chef. Without his beloved Eva, he has lost his will to go on, drowning in the bottom of a bottle.
Holly has had to pull herself up to keep going for her 7 year old daughter Emma. She takes a job at Table One as a step toward living her life again. As soon as she and Pierre meet, it's a clash of personalities to say the least. He is a strong willed, arrogant ass and can't believe a woman, a waitress even, would dare challenge his authority. Holly will not let him walk all over her particularly since it only took one look at her and zero words from her for him to decide she wasn't good enough.
Then one encounter between Holly and a handsy customer flips a protective switch in him, and they are both left reeling trying to figure out how they went from intense dislike to scorching sparks and passion in a blink of an eye. They both feel like they are somehow cheating on their deceased spouses, and Holly has the added concern of bringing someone new into Emma's life.
Emma was a delight! She is the classic example of "out of the mouths of babes" SO many times! She takes one look at Pierre and decides she likes him- and he is similarly captivated by her. Once he made the decision to pull himself together, he evolved into a very yummy version of himself from the smokin' good looks he already possessed to the delicious French accent and vocabulary smattered throughout his speech, to the care and devotion he showed to both Holly and Emma. Oh and the dominant edge to his bedroom skills can't be denied! Whew!!
There are plenty of emotional moments and secrets to be revealed as they find their way forward, and I thoroughly enjoyed taking the journey with them. I definitely recommend taking that journey for yourself- in the meantime I will leave you with a Pierre-isms that may help provide some encouragement/ inspiration if you are undecided.
“Yes, because what happened in the office was not the way I should’ve kissed you. And I plan on kissing you all the time.” Trying to get that lump down. “And in a lot of places.” Holy shit. His hot breath touches the sensitive skin on my neck, “All.” Sniff. “Over.” Small lick. “Your.” He opens his fingers and splays his hand across the top of my bottom, pulling me so close we’re touching. “Body.”
"When you come, I want you to tremble around me. To whimper my name while I break you into many pieces, then I will kiss all the parts back together again.”
I think life has shown me if I love something, I should never hold back. I should throw myself into it and hope you feel the same way. I will protect what I love, nurture you and respect you, because tomorrow I may wake up and find I never had you. We have one opportunity to cherish what we love, Holly. To hold onto it and savour every moment with it. And you and Emma are what I love, with my entire soul, with my life.
Holly has had to pull herself up to keep going for her 7 year old daughter Emma. She takes a job at Table One as a step toward living her life again. As soon as she and Pierre meet, it's a clash of personalities to say the least. He is a strong willed, arrogant ass and can't believe a woman, a waitress even, would dare challenge his authority. Holly will not let him walk all over her particularly since it only took one look at her and zero words from her for him to decide she wasn't good enough.
Then one encounter between Holly and a handsy customer flips a protective switch in him, and they are both left reeling trying to figure out how they went from intense dislike to scorching sparks and passion in a blink of an eye. They both feel like they are somehow cheating on their deceased spouses, and Holly has the added concern of bringing someone new into Emma's life.
Emma was a delight! She is the classic example of "out of the mouths of babes" SO many times! She takes one look at Pierre and decides she likes him- and he is similarly captivated by her. Once he made the decision to pull himself together, he evolved into a very yummy version of himself from the smokin' good looks he already possessed to the delicious French accent and vocabulary smattered throughout his speech, to the care and devotion he showed to both Holly and Emma. Oh and the dominant edge to his bedroom skills can't be denied! Whew!!
There are plenty of emotional moments and secrets to be revealed as they find their way forward, and I thoroughly enjoyed taking the journey with them. I definitely recommend taking that journey for yourself- in the meantime I will leave you with a Pierre-isms that may help provide some encouragement/ inspiration if you are undecided.
“Yes, because what happened in the office was not the way I should’ve kissed you. And I plan on kissing you all the time.” Trying to get that lump down. “And in a lot of places.” Holy shit. His hot breath touches the sensitive skin on my neck, “All.” Sniff. “Over.” Small lick. “Your.” He opens his fingers and splays his hand across the top of my bottom, pulling me so close we’re touching. “Body.”
"When you come, I want you to tremble around me. To whimper my name while I break you into many pieces, then I will kiss all the parts back together again.”
I think life has shown me if I love something, I should never hold back. I should throw myself into it and hope you feel the same way. I will protect what I love, nurture you and respect you, because tomorrow I may wake up and find I never had you. We have one opportunity to cherish what we love, Holly. To hold onto it and savour every moment with it. And you and Emma are what I love, with my entire soul, with my life.
March 16, 2015
5 SEXY SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE STARS
I loved every moment of this story. From its highs to its lows.
An exceptional love story about two hurting souls who find each other in the most unexpected, entertaining and absorbing way.
Will they be able to endure a second chance romance?
Margaret McHeyzer, let me just say – Thank you for brining Pierre LeRoux to your readers. He is everything from impossible to alluring.
This story captivated my heart in so many ways. From the characters being in their mid-30s/40s, the banter/dialogue between Holly and Pierre to Emma’s perspective on life.
Holly & Pierre
Are you kidding me?” I throw my hands up, annoyance finally ripping through me and aimed directly at its source. “Tell me how you’ve become such an arrogant jerk? What the hell is your problem, Pierre?”
“You are my problem,” he says snidely, as he looks down his nose at me. His intense grey gaze pins me to the wall, momentarily knocking the breath out of my body.
My eyes rake over his face, slowly down to his chest, and I catch a sudden deep intake of his own breath.
For that split second, the single heartbeat, he’s not Pierre the sour monster, he’s something else. A vessel harbouring raw pain, a shadow embedded so deeply in his soul that he can barely breathe.
His severe gaze stays glued to mine.
Holly and Emma were just priceless. Their charismatic mother/daughter relationship was beautiful to watch unfold. Emma is so innocent and delightful in everything that she says and does.
Pierre is arrogant, sexy, sensual, dominant and French. He is not in a happy place after the loss of his wife. But when he meets Holly – sparks fly – even though he doesn’t want to admit it.
Pierre & Holly
“I do not like being told what to do, Holly,” he says, his voice low and gruff. Sexy and desirable. He skims his nose across the column of my throat and inhales deeply through his nose. I close my eyes and feel my back arching, pushing into his chest. “But I certainly enjoy watching you.”
Holy shit! This can’t be happening.
“Pierre,” I whisper, barely audible.
“Holly,” he returns as his warm hand brushes past my hip.
My legs turn to jelly, and I feel unsteady on my feet.
“Until later,” he murmurs lowly. I feel something soft and wet trace the shell of my ear, and while I’m desperately craving more, his warmth disappears.
Holly, so strong for what she has endured. So independent, feisty and selfless. Loved the way she stood up for herself at every opportunity. But also loved the way Pierre made her feel alive.
Watching these two and their story unfold was definitely a beautiful experience. Their chemistry was truly exciting. It was on fire and the tension between them high with their feisty, sexy, sizzling and sensual encounters.
Pierre becomes so drawn to Holly that his caring, kind and sensual worship of Holly is stunning.
But will there be turbulence within this relationship? What does the future hold for Pierre and Holly?
An alluring love story which will warm your heart.
A Must Read.
I loved every moment of this story. From its highs to its lows.
An exceptional love story about two hurting souls who find each other in the most unexpected, entertaining and absorbing way.
Will they be able to endure a second chance romance?
Margaret McHeyzer, let me just say – Thank you for brining Pierre LeRoux to your readers. He is everything from impossible to alluring.
This story captivated my heart in so many ways. From the characters being in their mid-30s/40s, the banter/dialogue between Holly and Pierre to Emma’s perspective on life.
Holly & Pierre
Are you kidding me?” I throw my hands up, annoyance finally ripping through me and aimed directly at its source. “Tell me how you’ve become such an arrogant jerk? What the hell is your problem, Pierre?”
“You are my problem,” he says snidely, as he looks down his nose at me. His intense grey gaze pins me to the wall, momentarily knocking the breath out of my body.
My eyes rake over his face, slowly down to his chest, and I catch a sudden deep intake of his own breath.
For that split second, the single heartbeat, he’s not Pierre the sour monster, he’s something else. A vessel harbouring raw pain, a shadow embedded so deeply in his soul that he can barely breathe.
His severe gaze stays glued to mine.
Holly and Emma were just priceless. Their charismatic mother/daughter relationship was beautiful to watch unfold. Emma is so innocent and delightful in everything that she says and does.
Pierre is arrogant, sexy, sensual, dominant and French. He is not in a happy place after the loss of his wife. But when he meets Holly – sparks fly – even though he doesn’t want to admit it.
Pierre & Holly
“I do not like being told what to do, Holly,” he says, his voice low and gruff. Sexy and desirable. He skims his nose across the column of my throat and inhales deeply through his nose. I close my eyes and feel my back arching, pushing into his chest. “But I certainly enjoy watching you.”
Holy shit! This can’t be happening.
“Pierre,” I whisper, barely audible.
“Holly,” he returns as his warm hand brushes past my hip.
My legs turn to jelly, and I feel unsteady on my feet.
“Until later,” he murmurs lowly. I feel something soft and wet trace the shell of my ear, and while I’m desperately craving more, his warmth disappears.
Holly, so strong for what she has endured. So independent, feisty and selfless. Loved the way she stood up for herself at every opportunity. But also loved the way Pierre made her feel alive.
Watching these two and their story unfold was definitely a beautiful experience. Their chemistry was truly exciting. It was on fire and the tension between them high with their feisty, sexy, sizzling and sensual encounters.
Pierre becomes so drawn to Holly that his caring, kind and sensual worship of Holly is stunning.
But will there be turbulence within this relationship? What does the future hold for Pierre and Holly?
An alluring love story which will warm your heart.
A Must Read.
March 18, 2015
Monster Chef is a story of loss and second chances; it illustrates what happens when someone falls so deep into the darkness after losing someone that it’s hard to get up every morning in order to fight through another day. It’s a text that takes its characters through the cycle of mourning and then offers tiny glimpses into what life can be like if only someone can be strong enough to move forward instead of being held down by grief, pain, and anger.
Holly Walker and Pierre LeRoux handle the loss of their spouses in much different ways, but it’s those differences that bring them together and allow them to begin to heal each other. I love that readers are given both Holly and Pierre’s perspective because it allows us to understand why they are the way they are and what they need in order to endure the heartbreak they are experiencing.
Holly is an incredibly strong heroine who carries on after her husband’s death because she chooses to do so. It’s not easy being a single mother, but she does it. It’s not easy putting herself back in the work force or standing up for herself in the face of nasty comments and actions, but she does it because that’s who she is. She’s a fighter, and she wants to be a good example to her daughter so that she understands that even though life may be difficult, it’s how one chooses to cope that defines her.
Pierre is an arrogant, volatile man whose entire world imploded due to the loss of his wife and his inability to cope. I was blown away by Margaret McHeyzer’s ability to illustrate the raw pain he continues to feel even four years later. He’s lost his way…who he is…what defines him, and at the beginning of the text, he doesn’t want to find himself again because he’s trapped in misery and consumed by the desire to join his wife. Every feeling expressed and statement made by Pierre, subconsciously, speaks to the honest reality of what occurs when someone loses the one person who defined his life. It makes his hardened, asshole exterior easier to accept because it only exists as a shield from the pain…a way to make it through the day and keep everyone at bay.
This was my first read by Margret McHeyzer, and I really enjoyed it. The emotional writing and transforming characters had my attention from the beginning, and the dirty talking, passionate Frenchman had me wanting to find my own to be able to experience the kind of heady feelings that he brings out of Holly.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Holly Walker and Pierre LeRoux handle the loss of their spouses in much different ways, but it’s those differences that bring them together and allow them to begin to heal each other. I love that readers are given both Holly and Pierre’s perspective because it allows us to understand why they are the way they are and what they need in order to endure the heartbreak they are experiencing.
Holly is an incredibly strong heroine who carries on after her husband’s death because she chooses to do so. It’s not easy being a single mother, but she does it. It’s not easy putting herself back in the work force or standing up for herself in the face of nasty comments and actions, but she does it because that’s who she is. She’s a fighter, and she wants to be a good example to her daughter so that she understands that even though life may be difficult, it’s how one chooses to cope that defines her.
Pierre is an arrogant, volatile man whose entire world imploded due to the loss of his wife and his inability to cope. I was blown away by Margaret McHeyzer’s ability to illustrate the raw pain he continues to feel even four years later. He’s lost his way…who he is…what defines him, and at the beginning of the text, he doesn’t want to find himself again because he’s trapped in misery and consumed by the desire to join his wife. Every feeling expressed and statement made by Pierre, subconsciously, speaks to the honest reality of what occurs when someone loses the one person who defined his life. It makes his hardened, asshole exterior easier to accept because it only exists as a shield from the pain…a way to make it through the day and keep everyone at bay.
This was my first read by Margret McHeyzer, and I really enjoyed it. The emotional writing and transforming characters had my attention from the beginning, and the dirty talking, passionate Frenchman had me wanting to find my own to be able to experience the kind of heady feelings that he brings out of Holly.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
March 18, 2015
I can’t say enough about this book. I loved it so much, another fantastic book Margaret. Pierre is a French chef who was at the top of his game and then his wife died. He threw himself into his work but that wasn’t enough. He started his downhill spiral with drinking and sleeping pills. Holly Walker had it all. She had a loving husband and a great daughter. Then he husband was killed in an accident. Her husband left her with enough so that she and her daughter wouldn’t have to worry but she needs to start over now. It has been almost two years and she is ready. She gets a job as a maître d at the restaurant where Pierre is the head chef. Pierre doesn’t even give her a chance just says he doesn’t want her working at the restaurant. The restaurant manager hires her anyway. It’s not Pierre’s restaurant he just works there. It doesn’t take long for Holly to realize that Pierre is hurting and they aren’t that different. They have their problems with each other. Pierre wants his way and Holly doesn’t back down. They find that they have things in common. Holly isn’t sure what it is about Pierre but she finds himself attracted to him despite his attitude. Pierre is hung up on his wife. He feels like he let her down and it is his fault that she died. He talks to his wife all time at home and finds himself just waiting for death to take him so they can be together again. That is until he meets Holly. She brings his spark of life back before he even realized it. This story was heart breaking at times. I even ugly cried at one part. Both Holly and Pierre are sad and a little broken. They help bring each other back and heal each other. Holly is worried at times that it is too soon or that she will hurt her daughter. She wants to help Pierre come back and be just a great as he once was. People at work notice the way they look at each other and act around each other. Pierre is a passionate French man, he finds himself consumed by his feelings for Holly and not always communicating as well as he should with Holly. There were parts that were really funny, tense parts, of course a little danger. I love Margaret’s books, looking forward to reading more books by her.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
March 17, 2015
I loved this book! I devoured it in 24 hours because I couldn’t put it down. Ms. McHeyzer made these characters people I was dying to get to know better. I wanted to delve into their psyches and make friends with them. This was my first book by her, but I can promise it won’t be my last.
Pierre and Holly are two broken souls not even sure what they are looking for. They meet at the restaurant where Pierre is the head chef and Holly has just taken the maitre-d position. At first glance, Pierre is an egotistical maniac who doesn’t want to be friends with anyone and really doesn’t even like anyone. Holly is recovering from the death of her husband and just getting back into the workforce and she refuses to take any crap from anyone- including Pierre.
Pierre does a great job of explaining what his life is really like in this passage:
However, sleep has been elusive. It’s a flickering candle. The wax is melting and the flame is a small, quivering spark. Soon it’ll simply vanish, and I’ll finally collapse into the black hole of eternal peace.
Everyone sees him as an a**, but the truth is he is just lonely and doesn’t know how to deal with his intense grief from his wife’s death. The truth is that he isn’t unlike Holly, but Holly is lucky to have her daughter and mother-in-law.
Once they realize that they have an attraction with each other, their love is hot and heavy. It isn’t without dips and it doesn’t go perfectly, but Pierre is capable of making my ovaries explode with his sexy accent and wonderful words like these:
“We have one opportunity to cherish what we love, Holly. To hold onto it and savour every moment with it. And you and Emma are what I love, with my entire soul, with my life. I do not want to let you go. I want to fall into the oblivion of your love and never return from it.”
This book is intense with emotions and love. I highly recommend that everyone read it and enjoy the dual POVs and the great love story that it is. I even loved the epilogue though I knew it meant the story was over. It’s a wonderful story that I will recommend to everyone I know that loves to read!
Pierre and Holly are two broken souls not even sure what they are looking for. They meet at the restaurant where Pierre is the head chef and Holly has just taken the maitre-d position. At first glance, Pierre is an egotistical maniac who doesn’t want to be friends with anyone and really doesn’t even like anyone. Holly is recovering from the death of her husband and just getting back into the workforce and she refuses to take any crap from anyone- including Pierre.
Pierre does a great job of explaining what his life is really like in this passage:
However, sleep has been elusive. It’s a flickering candle. The wax is melting and the flame is a small, quivering spark. Soon it’ll simply vanish, and I’ll finally collapse into the black hole of eternal peace.
Everyone sees him as an a**, but the truth is he is just lonely and doesn’t know how to deal with his intense grief from his wife’s death. The truth is that he isn’t unlike Holly, but Holly is lucky to have her daughter and mother-in-law.
Once they realize that they have an attraction with each other, their love is hot and heavy. It isn’t without dips and it doesn’t go perfectly, but Pierre is capable of making my ovaries explode with his sexy accent and wonderful words like these:
“We have one opportunity to cherish what we love, Holly. To hold onto it and savour every moment with it. And you and Emma are what I love, with my entire soul, with my life. I do not want to let you go. I want to fall into the oblivion of your love and never return from it.”
This book is intense with emotions and love. I highly recommend that everyone read it and enjoy the dual POVs and the great love story that it is. I even loved the epilogue though I knew it meant the story was over. It’s a wonderful story that I will recommend to everyone I know that loves to read!
July 6, 2015
Holly Walkers life was perfect,she had a family tillit was all cruelly ripped away from her,shes now a widow and single parent, looking to make changes in her life Holly lands a job at one of the top restaurants Table One as maitre d’.
Pierre LeCame to Australia 20 years ago he had a wife but he too had his life torn to shreds when his wife was killed,he had always been known as the master chef but after the death of his wife it quickly changed to monster chef!! Hes mean,moody arrogant but underneath hes broken over the loss of his wife and deals with it the only way he knows
Holly had to go on with life for the sake of her daughter,Pierre drowned himself in booze,taking his pain out on everyone else.Holly finds herself working with Pierre,he makes it clear he doesn’t want her working with him but shes determined to do her job.But theres an attraction between them and sparks start to fly.Holly brings out feelings in Pierre he thought hed never feel again,she also stands up to him and tells it like it is…much to his amusement.But Hlly ries to stay away afraid of getting hurt but the heart wants what the heart wants!! Hollys daughter Emma also melts Pierres frozen heart and he wonders can he find happiness and love again?
Can two people both nursing broken hearts heal each other and start to love again?Theres a few twists and turns lots of red hot sexy moments,Pierre certainly knows how to talk dirty and make food sound sexy too!!Ultimately is a story of two people finding love again moving on from the past and facing a bright new future that maybe scares them abit too. I loved the way Margaret described the pain they both felt particularly Pierre,its emotional at times but funny in places and has some other secondary characters that bring a lot to the story too.
I cant wait for Margarets next book!!
Pierre LeCame to Australia 20 years ago he had a wife but he too had his life torn to shreds when his wife was killed,he had always been known as the master chef but after the death of his wife it quickly changed to monster chef!! Hes mean,moody arrogant but underneath hes broken over the loss of his wife and deals with it the only way he knows
Holly had to go on with life for the sake of her daughter,Pierre drowned himself in booze,taking his pain out on everyone else.Holly finds herself working with Pierre,he makes it clear he doesn’t want her working with him but shes determined to do her job.But theres an attraction between them and sparks start to fly.Holly brings out feelings in Pierre he thought hed never feel again,she also stands up to him and tells it like it is…much to his amusement.But Hlly ries to stay away afraid of getting hurt but the heart wants what the heart wants!! Hollys daughter Emma also melts Pierres frozen heart and he wonders can he find happiness and love again?
Can two people both nursing broken hearts heal each other and start to love again?Theres a few twists and turns lots of red hot sexy moments,Pierre certainly knows how to talk dirty and make food sound sexy too!!Ultimately is a story of two people finding love again moving on from the past and facing a bright new future that maybe scares them abit too. I loved the way Margaret described the pain they both felt particularly Pierre,its emotional at times but funny in places and has some other secondary characters that bring a lot to the story too.
I cant wait for Margarets next book!!
March 24, 2015
Read for ByoB
I think everyone needs an arrogant, pigheaded chef in their life.
Pierre is a chef, a great chef but because of his attitude is known as the Monster Chef. He lost the love of his life and doesn't know how to survive without her. He is known for making people cry and quit and sometimes both at the same time. Then one day his dark world is turned upside down by one Holly Walker.
Holly is no stranger to loss, she lost her husband is just starting to put her world back together. One of the steps in taking her life back involves her going back to work and of course she finds herself working at the restaurant with the Monster Chef. But just because she is just starting out again doesn't mean she is going to take any crap from the Monster.
Oh...they just tickled me. It was awesome; he the arrogant jerk and she the insufferable woman. They both are hiding in places deep within themselves. But if the loss taught them anything it is to live life to its fullest because tomorrow you may not get the chance.
The story was well written and the depth of their loss, especially Pierre's was really soul shattering. Pierre while a complete jerk at times is also a passionate man. His mood changes where swift enough to give me whiplash, but his mouth made me melt. Holly while I enjoyed her ability to stand up for herself and give Pierre a run for his money, she was a little too quick to judge and at times didn't have as much depth. There story was sweet and spicy. Their banter was most engaging and made me laugh out loud. It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more by this author. She has a real poetic with her writing that allows you to feel the story on deeper level and I quite hooked.
I think everyone needs an arrogant, pigheaded chef in their life.
Pierre is a chef, a great chef but because of his attitude is known as the Monster Chef. He lost the love of his life and doesn't know how to survive without her. He is known for making people cry and quit and sometimes both at the same time. Then one day his dark world is turned upside down by one Holly Walker.
Holly is no stranger to loss, she lost her husband is just starting to put her world back together. One of the steps in taking her life back involves her going back to work and of course she finds herself working at the restaurant with the Monster Chef. But just because she is just starting out again doesn't mean she is going to take any crap from the Monster.
Oh...they just tickled me. It was awesome; he the arrogant jerk and she the insufferable woman. They both are hiding in places deep within themselves. But if the loss taught them anything it is to live life to its fullest because tomorrow you may not get the chance.
The story was well written and the depth of their loss, especially Pierre's was really soul shattering. Pierre while a complete jerk at times is also a passionate man. His mood changes where swift enough to give me whiplash, but his mouth made me melt. Holly while I enjoyed her ability to stand up for herself and give Pierre a run for his money, she was a little too quick to judge and at times didn't have as much depth. There story was sweet and spicy. Their banter was most engaging and made me laugh out loud. It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more by this author. She has a real poetic with her writing that allows you to feel the story on deeper level and I quite hooked.
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