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Jonathon Island | Season 2 #3
Find Me at the Table: Enemies to More, a Cooking Competition, and The Man Whose Career She Accidentally Destroyed
She ruined his career with one review. Now they have to cook together.
A food critic who can't cook. A chef who can't let go. One cooking competition that changes everything.
Ava Harper writes restaurant reviews that can make or break careers
—but she's hiding a secret that would destroy her own. The daughter of celebrity chefs never learned to cook. When her editor forces her to compete in Jonathon Island's Flavor Fest, she's not just out of her depth. She's partnered with Zach Sullivan, the chef whose restaurant her review accidentally ruined.
This should be a disaster.
Zach has nursed his grudge for years. He's blamed Ava for every setback, every failure, every sleepless night. Now he's stuck in a dead-end job under a tyrannical chef, and his only shot at redemption means working alongside the woman he's spent years resenting.
The problem? She's nothing like he expected.
Between burnt garlic bread, sabotaged flour, and the watchful eyes of celebrity judges, Zach and Ava discover that the truth behind that fateful review isn't what either of them believed. As old wounds finally come to light, they'll have to Is forgiveness worth the risk? And is love the recipe they've both been missing?
A charming enemies-to-lovers romance about second chances, secret-keeping, and discovering that the sweetest dishes are made with grace. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, and Hallmark cooking competition movies.
A food critic who can't cook. A chef who can't let go. One cooking competition that changes everything.
Ava Harper writes restaurant reviews that can make or break careers
—but she's hiding a secret that would destroy her own. The daughter of celebrity chefs never learned to cook. When her editor forces her to compete in Jonathon Island's Flavor Fest, she's not just out of her depth. She's partnered with Zach Sullivan, the chef whose restaurant her review accidentally ruined.
This should be a disaster.
Zach has nursed his grudge for years. He's blamed Ava for every setback, every failure, every sleepless night. Now he's stuck in a dead-end job under a tyrannical chef, and his only shot at redemption means working alongside the woman he's spent years resenting.
The problem? She's nothing like he expected.
Between burnt garlic bread, sabotaged flour, and the watchful eyes of celebrity judges, Zach and Ava discover that the truth behind that fateful review isn't what either of them believed. As old wounds finally come to light, they'll have to Is forgiveness worth the risk? And is love the recipe they've both been missing?
A charming enemies-to-lovers romance about second chances, secret-keeping, and discovering that the sweetest dishes are made with grace. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, and Hallmark cooking competition movies.
Audible Audio
First published May 1, 2026
About the author
Andrea Christenson
15 books138 followersAndrea Christenson is a contemporary Christian romance author. She’s a pastor’s wife with a biblical studies degree and over 20 years of ministry experience. Her stories are clean, faith-filled, and family-honoring, and can be trusted to entertain the heart, engage the mind, and edify the soul.
Andrea lives in Plymouth, MN, with her husband and two daughters.
Andrea lives in Plymouth, MN, with her husband and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 4, 2026
As a food critic, Ava’s dream has been to get out of Chicago- to work remotely and travel. And honestly, she’d love to live in a little house on Jonathon Island. At this point I really just want to go live on Jonathon Island myself. I certainly can’t blame Ava for wanting to! There’s a couple big obstacles in her way. She needs her boss to sign off on her plan, and he’s asking her to compete in a cooking competition (but she can’t cook). There’s a bidding war on her perfect house. And handsome chef Zachary Sullivan is suddenly in her life- and she derailed his career with a bad review.
I’m so proud of this story for being all about forgiveness. Both Ava and Zach have so much to work through, both individually and in regard to each other. But they’re both believers who want to learn how to forgive God’s way. It’s a journey, and they don’t always get it right. But there’s so much truth and honesty in the process that had me cheering for them from the start. Parts had me filled with joy while others made me cringe in all the best ways that make characters so real you just want to shake them. Both of them need a good shake and/or hug at different points in the story!
This trip to Jonathon Island was a really good one. Familiar faces and a community where everyone knows everyone else’s business makes for an enjoyable visit each time. I’m loving getting to know all of Dani’s siblings and getting to watch them find home. And best of all, watching them learn that they’re loved by God, worthy, and enough.
Thank you so much to Sunrise Publishing for the complementary copy of this book. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
I’m so proud of this story for being all about forgiveness. Both Ava and Zach have so much to work through, both individually and in regard to each other. But they’re both believers who want to learn how to forgive God’s way. It’s a journey, and they don’t always get it right. But there’s so much truth and honesty in the process that had me cheering for them from the start. Parts had me filled with joy while others made me cringe in all the best ways that make characters so real you just want to shake them. Both of them need a good shake and/or hug at different points in the story!
This trip to Jonathon Island was a really good one. Familiar faces and a community where everyone knows everyone else’s business makes for an enjoyable visit each time. I’m loving getting to know all of Dani’s siblings and getting to watch them find home. And best of all, watching them learn that they’re loved by God, worthy, and enough.
Thank you so much to Sunrise Publishing for the complementary copy of this book. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
May 19, 2026
Once again I enjoyed my visit to beautiful Jonathan Island. It is a place where many have been given a second chance in life and love, but it is also a place of forgiveness for many. The center point of this story was all about forgiveness and learning to forgive and enjoy the freedom of forgiveness while letting go of bitterness.
Zach Sullivan has been nursing a grudge against food critic, Ava Harper, for many years. He holds her responsible for ruining his business after publishing a nasty review in her newspaper. He has been searching for a place to belong since those days. Imagine his surprise and shock, as well as Ava's shock, when they find themselves in the same room at a cooking class that he is leading. They can get through this and be done with each other. However, God has other plans for them. Their days of being in the same place are just beginning.
As they are forced to work together at the food festival on the island, both find that their assumptions about each other are a little off base. There is more to the mysterious chef than appears on the his gruffy surface. Zach begins to see a woman who cares about others.
I really loved reading about Zach's struggles to forgive and let go of the past because it made him more real to me, as anyone knows past hurts are not easy to get over. He will have to lean heavily on his faith to fully forgive Ava. Ava has some secrets of her own, and some past hurts from her parents that have haunted her.
This book is about good food and family, but it is so much more as well. The author builds a story with characters who have dreams that they want fulfilled. This was an easy book to read and enjoy for many reasons, but one thing stuck out in my head that I have always been told and that is sometimes when God closes door, he opens a window. That is especially true in this wonderful, touching inspirational romance.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Zach Sullivan has been nursing a grudge against food critic, Ava Harper, for many years. He holds her responsible for ruining his business after publishing a nasty review in her newspaper. He has been searching for a place to belong since those days. Imagine his surprise and shock, as well as Ava's shock, when they find themselves in the same room at a cooking class that he is leading. They can get through this and be done with each other. However, God has other plans for them. Their days of being in the same place are just beginning.
As they are forced to work together at the food festival on the island, both find that their assumptions about each other are a little off base. There is more to the mysterious chef than appears on the his gruffy surface. Zach begins to see a woman who cares about others.
I really loved reading about Zach's struggles to forgive and let go of the past because it made him more real to me, as anyone knows past hurts are not easy to get over. He will have to lean heavily on his faith to fully forgive Ava. Ava has some secrets of her own, and some past hurts from her parents that have haunted her.
This book is about good food and family, but it is so much more as well. The author builds a story with characters who have dreams that they want fulfilled. This was an easy book to read and enjoy for many reasons, but one thing stuck out in my head that I have always been told and that is sometimes when God closes door, he opens a window. That is especially true in this wonderful, touching inspirational romance.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Do you enjoy the ‘enemies to more’ trope? Are you a foodie? Romance reader?
This beautiful story of transformation turns Ava Harper and Zachary Sullivan’s hate into love and their mistrust into vulnerability.
Zachary Sullivan is a chef who doesn’t trust food writer Ava Harper after her scathing review in the Chicago Herald of a meal she had at Escargot. Since her critique was published in her column ‘Ava Harper Chows Down’, things spiralled out of control in Zachary’s life, and he holds her responsible. When she signs up for a cooking class, she has no idea that Zachary is the instructor….and he hasn’t forgiven and certainly not forgotten Ava!
Author Andrea Christenson crafts their relationship with all the right ingredients: strong conflict that comes with tension and softens to chemistry, character growth that’s definitely earned, and slow-burn chemistry birthed by arguments and unresolved tension. I think the star of this relationship is the push and pull of two characters who feel justified in their feelings. I kept flipping pages because I wondered how it would all get resolved. The emotional payoff was fantastic - two people who couldn’t stand each other finally giving in!
I enjoyed the focus on forgiveness. It was wonderful to see a male main character who struggled to forgive and forget. His vulnerability made him so much more endearing. I teared up when he confessed, “I’m not sure I can forgive like Jesus did. He was perfect. I’m so not,” and later on when he shared that he was “trying to make decisions with God’s help”. I’m sure we all feel like that and can identify with his struggle.
I love this Jonathon Island community! They’re so accepting and nurturing, and I can’t wait to get back for a visit in the next installment of this fantastic series.
Fantastic cover art!
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This beautiful story of transformation turns Ava Harper and Zachary Sullivan’s hate into love and their mistrust into vulnerability.
Zachary Sullivan is a chef who doesn’t trust food writer Ava Harper after her scathing review in the Chicago Herald of a meal she had at Escargot. Since her critique was published in her column ‘Ava Harper Chows Down’, things spiralled out of control in Zachary’s life, and he holds her responsible. When she signs up for a cooking class, she has no idea that Zachary is the instructor….and he hasn’t forgiven and certainly not forgotten Ava!
Author Andrea Christenson crafts their relationship with all the right ingredients: strong conflict that comes with tension and softens to chemistry, character growth that’s definitely earned, and slow-burn chemistry birthed by arguments and unresolved tension. I think the star of this relationship is the push and pull of two characters who feel justified in their feelings. I kept flipping pages because I wondered how it would all get resolved. The emotional payoff was fantastic - two people who couldn’t stand each other finally giving in!
I enjoyed the focus on forgiveness. It was wonderful to see a male main character who struggled to forgive and forget. His vulnerability made him so much more endearing. I teared up when he confessed, “I’m not sure I can forgive like Jesus did. He was perfect. I’m so not,” and later on when he shared that he was “trying to make decisions with God’s help”. I’m sure we all feel like that and can identify with his struggle.
I love this Jonathon Island community! They’re so accepting and nurturing, and I can’t wait to get back for a visit in the next installment of this fantastic series.
Fantastic cover art!
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Such a good book to relax with
Newspaper columnist, Ava, has a secret which she must keep if she wants to have an authentic career. After her editor unwittingly calls her bluff, she is forced to sign up for a weekly course, unexpectedly led by Zach, a chef with whom she had a bad experience at the start of her employment as a food critic.
When they both decide to visit Jonathon Island during the inaugural Flavor Fest, Zach to cook and Ava to schedule interviews for newspaper articles, the fun begins…
From one crisis to the next, from co-operation to misunderstandings, and from friendly conversation to explosive arguments, Paul and Ava provide residents and tourists on the island with enticing gossip to share. However, through it all, they feel attracted to one another and to a permanent home on the island.
Ms Christenson portrays Paul and Ava as delightful and realistic protagonists and entertains her readers with light-hearted moments while also delving deeper into the thoughts of her characters. Her description of island life, including scenery, businesses and community interaction make readers want to live there too!
I received an advanced copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
Newspaper columnist, Ava, has a secret which she must keep if she wants to have an authentic career. After her editor unwittingly calls her bluff, she is forced to sign up for a weekly course, unexpectedly led by Zach, a chef with whom she had a bad experience at the start of her employment as a food critic.
When they both decide to visit Jonathon Island during the inaugural Flavor Fest, Zach to cook and Ava to schedule interviews for newspaper articles, the fun begins…
From one crisis to the next, from co-operation to misunderstandings, and from friendly conversation to explosive arguments, Paul and Ava provide residents and tourists on the island with enticing gossip to share. However, through it all, they feel attracted to one another and to a permanent home on the island.
Ms Christenson portrays Paul and Ava as delightful and realistic protagonists and entertains her readers with light-hearted moments while also delving deeper into the thoughts of her characters. Her description of island life, including scenery, businesses and community interaction make readers want to live there too!
I received an advanced copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
May 12, 2026
Find Me at the Table is the perfect mix of a hallmark and a cooking competition show.
Ava is the daughter of two master chefs, but she can’t cook to save her life, though she is a food critic. When she first started her career, she made a mistake, and that mistake ruined Zach’s career and restaurant.
Now living in Chicago, Ava is living her dream, writing a food critic column for the paper, when she decides to take a cooking class at a local restaurant, where she runs into none other than Zach. This encounter does not go smoothly.
Ava has gotten permission to visit and report on the events for the newest festival on Johnathn Island -Flavor Fest. This festival is part of the larger plan to show her boss she can handle writing remotely and to find a home to live in on Johnathan Island. Though things don’t always go as we plan.
On the island, Ava once again finds herself face to face with Zach. He is one of the cooks that she is judging for an event. And everything that could go wrong for him does. Poor Zach is left confused and with a little bit of a bruised ego, and Ava being the judge just adds salt to the wounds. Then, by chance, the two have been paired together for one of the cooking challenges.
I loved all the different layers of forgiveness happening in this story. As well as getting to see what is happening with all our Jonathan Island residents.
This enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Andrea Christenson did a great job including faith throughout.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Ava is the daughter of two master chefs, but she can’t cook to save her life, though she is a food critic. When she first started her career, she made a mistake, and that mistake ruined Zach’s career and restaurant.
Now living in Chicago, Ava is living her dream, writing a food critic column for the paper, when she decides to take a cooking class at a local restaurant, where she runs into none other than Zach. This encounter does not go smoothly.
Ava has gotten permission to visit and report on the events for the newest festival on Johnathn Island -Flavor Fest. This festival is part of the larger plan to show her boss she can handle writing remotely and to find a home to live in on Johnathan Island. Though things don’t always go as we plan.
On the island, Ava once again finds herself face to face with Zach. He is one of the cooks that she is judging for an event. And everything that could go wrong for him does. Poor Zach is left confused and with a little bit of a bruised ego, and Ava being the judge just adds salt to the wounds. Then, by chance, the two have been paired together for one of the cooking challenges.
I loved all the different layers of forgiveness happening in this story. As well as getting to see what is happening with all our Jonathan Island residents.
This enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Andrea Christenson did a great job including faith throughout.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 22, 2026
“She ruined his career with one review. Now they have to cook together.” honestly??? say less. 🍞✨
This book gave me everything I love in a cozy Christian romance: emotional growth, island charm, messy forgiveness, delicious food descriptions, and two people who slowly realize they misunderstood each other all along.
Ava and Zach’s relationship had the perfect enemies-to-lovers tension because underneath all the resentment was so much hurt, vulnerability, and longing to belong somewhere. Watching them work through years of bitterness while being forced together in a cooking competition made every interaction feel layered and meaningful.
And can we talk about Jonathon Island for a second? At this point I’m fully convinced I need to pack my bags and move there immediately. The small-town community, familiar faces, and warmth of this series makes every visit feel like coming home.
What stood out most to me was the theme of forgiveness. Not the easy kind, but the kind that takes honesty, humility, faith, and letting go of the pain you’ve carried for far too long. Zach and Ava both felt incredibly real in their struggles, which made their growth all the more rewarding.
This story was cozy, funny, heartfelt, and deeply encouraging all at once. If you love Hallmark-style cooking competitions, closed-door romance, second chances, and faith-filled stories with emotional depth, definitely add this one to your list.
ARC received for consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book gave me everything I love in a cozy Christian romance: emotional growth, island charm, messy forgiveness, delicious food descriptions, and two people who slowly realize they misunderstood each other all along.
Ava and Zach’s relationship had the perfect enemies-to-lovers tension because underneath all the resentment was so much hurt, vulnerability, and longing to belong somewhere. Watching them work through years of bitterness while being forced together in a cooking competition made every interaction feel layered and meaningful.
And can we talk about Jonathon Island for a second? At this point I’m fully convinced I need to pack my bags and move there immediately. The small-town community, familiar faces, and warmth of this series makes every visit feel like coming home.
What stood out most to me was the theme of forgiveness. Not the easy kind, but the kind that takes honesty, humility, faith, and letting go of the pain you’ve carried for far too long. Zach and Ava both felt incredibly real in their struggles, which made their growth all the more rewarding.
This story was cozy, funny, heartfelt, and deeply encouraging all at once. If you love Hallmark-style cooking competitions, closed-door romance, second chances, and faith-filled stories with emotional depth, definitely add this one to your list.
ARC received for consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 27, 2026
This book was so fun to read, not because of being back on Jonathan Island, but because of all the yummy food references and crazy food competitions.
I loved the tension between Ava and Zach as they competed in the food festival. Wow, the saying, “What could go wrong, does go wrong,” really applies to these two, and their drama is over the top.
I love being back on Jonathon Island and reading about all the fun, quaint, and quirky characters. It’s like stepping back home after being gone and finding out what’s happening with all your friends.
In this series, there are different authors who write each book, and I’ve found a few that I’ve enjoyed getting to know.
I’ve read a few books by Andrea Christenson, and in each story, I’m captured and taken into a fun, delightful tale. Her writing flowed smoothly, and all the characters were fun to get to know. I laughed and cried during many moments in this book.
I now look forward to continuing with all the other stories that will be based on this island.
I highly recommend picking up this book to start your adventures on Jonathon Island with all its colorful characters.
I loved the tension between Ava and Zach as they competed in the food festival. Wow, the saying, “What could go wrong, does go wrong,” really applies to these two, and their drama is over the top.
I love being back on Jonathon Island and reading about all the fun, quaint, and quirky characters. It’s like stepping back home after being gone and finding out what’s happening with all your friends.
In this series, there are different authors who write each book, and I’ve found a few that I’ve enjoyed getting to know.
I’ve read a few books by Andrea Christenson, and in each story, I’m captured and taken into a fun, delightful tale. Her writing flowed smoothly, and all the characters were fun to get to know. I laughed and cried during many moments in this book.
I now look forward to continuing with all the other stories that will be based on this island.
I highly recommend picking up this book to start your adventures on Jonathon Island with all its colorful characters.
April 21, 2026
This is a cute and sweet enemies-to-lovers romance with second chances, a secret that someone is keeping, and lots of heart. I loved seeing the Sullivans family members in each of these books. In this installment, Ava, food critic writer is trying to move up in her career in Chicago. She makes a suggestion to her editor that ultimately force Ava to go to Jonathon Island, Michigan for a Food Festival to prove she’s worthy of the job. She gets partnered with Zach Sullivan, the chef whose restaurant her review accidentally ruined everything for him . He has never forgotten and forgiven her for this one bad review.
Ava has a secret of her own, she needs Zach to keep it for her and show her to cook and win this competition her boss throws her into. There is a lot very sweet and aww moments in this book. I loved the way they come together for their second chances. Zach has more than one second chance he could possibly fix the relationship with his family.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Ava has a secret of her own, she needs Zach to keep it for her and show her to cook and win this competition her boss throws her into. There is a lot very sweet and aww moments in this book. I loved the way they come together for their second chances. Zach has more than one second chance he could possibly fix the relationship with his family.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
May 23, 2026
Author Andrea Christenson offers a realistic portrayal of two people challenged to forgive past hurts. Zach's career as a chef was damaged by a review that Ava submitted in error, and Ava has a secret that could derail her credibility as a food critic. Forgiveness doesn't happen immediately, and trust isn't easy to find. Will their time on Jonathon Island give both of them a second chance?
Find Me at the Table is a wonderful addition to the Jonathon Island, Second Season series. I love the sweet chemistry, the enemies-to-lovers trope, and the inspiring nuggets of faith that Christenson plants throughout her story. There's also a chance to reunite with the amazing Sullivan family! Wonder what comes next in this outstanding series from Sunrise Publishing?
I received a complimentary digital copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own
I invite you to read my full review @ https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
Find Me at the Table is a wonderful addition to the Jonathon Island, Second Season series. I love the sweet chemistry, the enemies-to-lovers trope, and the inspiring nuggets of faith that Christenson plants throughout her story. There's also a chance to reunite with the amazing Sullivan family! Wonder what comes next in this outstanding series from Sunrise Publishing?
I received a complimentary digital copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own
I invite you to read my full review @ https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Find me at the Table will take readers on a journey with cooking with a chef and a food critic who has a secret.
Though you would think the focus will be on the food, it is actually focused on the characters, their hopes, dreams, struggles and the theme of forgiveness. So if you go in expecting a book highly focused on food, cooking and ingredients, you will be disappointed. There was a good balance between details on the food and the interaction between the characters.
The story flowed very easy and fast and before I knew it I was 60% done with the story. Zach and Ava were easy to connect with and there was a scene which was very well written that as the reader, I felt the emotions and rawness between the characters.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Though you would think the focus will be on the food, it is actually focused on the characters, their hopes, dreams, struggles and the theme of forgiveness. So if you go in expecting a book highly focused on food, cooking and ingredients, you will be disappointed. There was a good balance between details on the food and the interaction between the characters.
The story flowed very easy and fast and before I knew it I was 60% done with the story. Zach and Ava were easy to connect with and there was a scene which was very well written that as the reader, I felt the emotions and rawness between the characters.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
May 9, 2026
Excuse me while I ugly cry…because Jonathan Island isn’t real and I so want it to be! The picturesque setting, the wonderful street names, the unique shops, and the people.
Oh the people!
Like Ava and Zach. She’s the food critic that destroyed his restaurant. He’s the bully that can’t get over it. Even though it’s been six years.
When both end up on the island, sparks and words fly fast and furious. She’s there to cover the food festival, and he’s entered the competition to win money for the charity he loves.
What could possibly go wrong? Well, a lot! But you’re going to have to read the book to find out—and you’ll love every page!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. I highly, highly recommend!
Now excuse me while I mourn for an island that doesn’t exist, but should!
Oh the people!
Like Ava and Zach. She’s the food critic that destroyed his restaurant. He’s the bully that can’t get over it. Even though it’s been six years.
When both end up on the island, sparks and words fly fast and furious. She’s there to cover the food festival, and he’s entered the competition to win money for the charity he loves.
What could possibly go wrong? Well, a lot! But you’re going to have to read the book to find out—and you’ll love every page!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. I highly, highly recommend!
Now excuse me while I mourn for an island that doesn’t exist, but should!
June 21, 2026
Absolutely loved this book!
This was such a fun book to read. I really enjoyed the cooking competition and the Great British Baking Show nods throughout the book. The flirty banter between Zach and Ava was really cute and I really loved seeing how their relationship progressed.
I loved the message of forgiveness in the book. I often have felt like I couldn’t forgive because I couldn’t forget. It made me feel like a bad Christian because I would still remember hurts and then it means I didn’t forgive. The message of forgiving and not forgetting but also not holding it over someone really resonated with me.
Overall the book was so much fun but also felt with topics I feel like a lot of people struggle with. I enjoyed the cheesy one liners that were in the book. It made me smile all the way through.
This was such a fun book to read. I really enjoyed the cooking competition and the Great British Baking Show nods throughout the book. The flirty banter between Zach and Ava was really cute and I really loved seeing how their relationship progressed.
I loved the message of forgiveness in the book. I often have felt like I couldn’t forgive because I couldn’t forget. It made me feel like a bad Christian because I would still remember hurts and then it means I didn’t forgive. The message of forgiving and not forgetting but also not holding it over someone really resonated with me.
Overall the book was so much fun but also felt with topics I feel like a lot of people struggle with. I enjoyed the cheesy one liners that were in the book. It made me smile all the way through.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“Here, in this kitchen tailor-made to his suggestions after his dad had burned down the last one, on the island he’d sworn never to return to, with the woman who had ruined his life, Zachary Sullivan was having fun.”
Jonathon Island is a delightful place to be and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Zach and Ava and how they found their way home. I’m really loving season 2 of Jonathon Island and the introduction to the Sullivan siblings. There are many of them and I’m looking forward to becoming fast friends with every single one of them. Zach was real and flawed but willing to forgive and ask for forgiveness. His temper, sharp tongue, pessimism, and tendency to hold a grudge were his yin to his yang of charm, creativity, confidence, and passionate heart. Watching him work in the kitchen was pure magic. Ava bumbled through so many of her interactions with Zach despite being a respected and well-loved food critic. Ava’s tender heart and longing for a place to belong made her a crowd favorite. Jonathon Island’s very first Flavor Fest was spectacular and I’m wondering which festival is next for the island. Can’t wait!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Jonathon Island is a delightful place to be and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Zach and Ava and how they found their way home. I’m really loving season 2 of Jonathon Island and the introduction to the Sullivan siblings. There are many of them and I’m looking forward to becoming fast friends with every single one of them. Zach was real and flawed but willing to forgive and ask for forgiveness. His temper, sharp tongue, pessimism, and tendency to hold a grudge were his yin to his yang of charm, creativity, confidence, and passionate heart. Watching him work in the kitchen was pure magic. Ava bumbled through so many of her interactions with Zach despite being a respected and well-loved food critic. Ava’s tender heart and longing for a place to belong made her a crowd favorite. Jonathon Island’s very first Flavor Fest was spectacular and I’m wondering which festival is next for the island. Can’t wait!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love Jonathon Island more with every book I read from this series. This one, Find Me at the Table, was instantly addictive. Featuring the story of Zach and Ava, we have the perfect combination: a food critic who can't cook and a master chef. As much as I love cooking shows, reading books featuring cooking adventures is even more appealing. I was quickly drawn into the lives of these characters as they battled it out for recognition, redemption, and romance.
Having read other books from Andrea Christenson, I knew this one would be just as delightful. The pacing was on point, and the character development was excellent. I could not have loved this book more!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Having read other books from Andrea Christenson, I knew this one would be just as delightful. The pacing was on point, and the character development was excellent. I could not have loved this book more!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Jonathon Island Season 2 has been full of beauty and the beast tales… grumpy man, sunshine heroine, small island town charm. This book was no different. It was full of fun, mistakes, and misunderstandings. Zach is just trying to prove himself to his family and in his career so he can move forward. Ava, daughter of famous chefs, is a food critic who can’t cook! She destroyed Zach’s restaurant years ago and now they find themselves on an island together, each trying to salvage their careers. But the only path forward is by working together. It’s a fun story! Especially if you enjoy food network!
May 23, 2026
As a frequent viewer of Food Network competition shows, I found this book to be so much fun in addition to its accuracy and emphasis on forgiving others for their actions. At times I was frustrated with Zach for his behavior towards Ava, but I also appreciated the realistic portrayal of how difficult it really is to forgive, trust, and move forward. I will be reading more of the author’s books, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
May 24, 2026
Ava Harper is a food critic who can't cook. Zach Sullivan is a chef whose restaurant went under after a bad review by Ava. Years later they meet again in a cooking class taught by Zach, and then are forced together during a cooking competition on Jonathon Island. Sparks fly, and Ava and Zach have to learn to forgive each other and themselves. I loved this sweet story about forgiveness and second chances. I loved how the author wove a theme of following God's will and plan throughout this story. Fans of Jonathon Island will enjoy catching up with all of thw characters of past books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love being on Jonathon Island and even more so when it includes a cooking competition!
I probably say this every time but I love that I get to be reacquainted with the former main characters.
This time the story centers around Zach and Ava. Both of them have baggage and some of it is personal. Ava was my favorite character as she was quick to identify her shortcomings and was such a compassionate character.
I enjoy how this series is faith filled.
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
I probably say this every time but I love that I get to be reacquainted with the former main characters.
This time the story centers around Zach and Ava. Both of them have baggage and some of it is personal. Ava was my favorite character as she was quick to identify her shortcomings and was such a compassionate character.
I enjoy how this series is faith filled.
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A sweet romance about forgiveness and second chances. What’s not to love about a romance centered around food and the preparation of it? Ava and Zach have a great antagonistic background that made them “enemies”, and I loved seeing this resolved on the page as they slowly developed feelings for one another.
I absolutely love this entire Jonathon Island series! I love reading the stories from the various authors. What a great way to get to visit one of my favorite literary destinations more often.
I absolutely love this entire Jonathon Island series! I love reading the stories from the various authors. What a great way to get to visit one of my favorite literary destinations more often.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a charming read about Ava, a food critic who can't cook, and Zach, a chef, whose career she ruined with a review. They then discover they are partners for a cooking competition on Jonathan Island. Find Me at the Table is a clean Christian romance read about enemies to more, forgiveness, second chances, redemption, faith, and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Sunrise Media Publishing for the opportunity to read an early copy of Find Me at the Table. This is a voluntary review.
I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Jonathan Island and meeting all the great townspeople and families. I loved Zach and Ava, they are characters with depth and flaws and loveable qualities.
I loved how forgiveness, love and kindness were overall themes throughout the book. I recommend visiting this wonderful fictional world.
I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Jonathan Island and meeting all the great townspeople and families. I loved Zach and Ava, they are characters with depth and flaws and loveable qualities.
I loved how forgiveness, love and kindness were overall themes throughout the book. I recommend visiting this wonderful fictional world.
May 29, 2026
A beautiful story of healing and forgiveness.
Our two main characters were carrying a lot of pain due to their pasts. They had to learn the power of forgiveness and the peace that comes from totally relying on God. It wasn’t all plain sailing, with plenty of spats and misunderstandings along the way. Familiar characters also added to the richness of the story. What a great addition to the series!
Our two main characters were carrying a lot of pain due to their pasts. They had to learn the power of forgiveness and the peace that comes from totally relying on God. It wasn’t all plain sailing, with plenty of spats and misunderstandings along the way. Familiar characters also added to the richness of the story. What a great addition to the series!
June 28, 2026
Find Me at the Table
Ava and Zach have a heartwarming story. Ava is a food critic who cannot cook. She wrote a very bad review for a restaurant Zach had opened in Seattle. Zach is a chef who has tried to become someone revered in the culinary world. When the two are brought together in a Jonathon Island cook off during a festival, more than sparks happen. I highly recommend you read the book to learn more of their story.
Ava and Zach have a heartwarming story. Ava is a food critic who cannot cook. She wrote a very bad review for a restaurant Zach had opened in Seattle. Zach is a chef who has tried to become someone revered in the culinary world. When the two are brought together in a Jonathon Island cook off during a festival, more than sparks happen. I highly recommend you read the book to learn more of their story.
June 2, 2026
I love this new johnathon island series. these new characters help bring out the ones that were already introduce in the prior books. if you love food and romance this book is for you. I had some long sleepless night reading this book because i wanted to know what would happen next.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 30, 2026
Ava and Zach have big goals for their jobs. Once, she accidentally tanked him, derailing his goal. When they meet back up years later, can they work together for a shared goal? Can they work through the past (and current) misunderstandings?
Can they learn to forgive as God forgives?
It is a really sweet story and I really enjoyed it.
Can they learn to forgive as God forgives?
It is a really sweet story and I really enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Another trip to Jonathan Island! This story has us at a good festival and it serves up some delicious enemies to lovers drama. Once again, Jonathan Island drew me in with its small town vibe. I love how the FMC and MMC came together, despite a rocky start. A nice easy and enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Another good Jonathon Island story with likeable characters in a beautiful setting. The faith thread shines in this story. Definitely worth the read. This book was provided by Sunrise Publishing for me to read. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.
July 13, 2026
Absolutely loved this book. The cooking competition setting was thrilling, the miscommunications and reconnections are both so realistic. It’s also always amazing to see characters from previous books show back up. Love this whole series.
April 17, 2026
Andrea created another wonderful story! Loved the realistic way of handling forgiveness and reconciliation. I definitely got a few food cravings reading this story. Excellent job!
May 21, 2026
Another great addition to the series! I loved the forgiveness themes.
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