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The Carlisles #1
Dinner for One
A Carlisles novel
Bastien isn’t used to bad reviews. His French restaurant is the toast of the town, and when a well-known critic insults it, he’s left off-kilter. Luckily for him he’s found a distraction. He’s just met an attractive writer at his niece’s school bake sale. He’s into food, into Bastien and the touch of kink they share, and there’s a chemistry between them that might make the perfect recipe.
James isn’t expecting to meet a good-looking French chef at a bake sale, but he’s not going to let the chance slide. It comes as a surprise when the chef turns out to be the owner of a place he knows—and has reviewed—and it puts James in a sticky situation. So he might have to omit some pertinent information to make it work… at least for now.
Bastien isn’t used to bad reviews. His French restaurant is the toast of the town, and when a well-known critic insults it, he’s left off-kilter. Luckily for him he’s found a distraction. He’s just met an attractive writer at his niece’s school bake sale. He’s into food, into Bastien and the touch of kink they share, and there’s a chemistry between them that might make the perfect recipe.
James isn’t expecting to meet a good-looking French chef at a bake sale, but he’s not going to let the chance slide. It comes as a surprise when the chef turns out to be the owner of a place he knows—and has reviewed—and it puts James in a sticky situation. So he might have to omit some pertinent information to make it work… at least for now.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2016
24 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Meg Harding
40 books113 followersMeg Harding is a graduate student, currently studying MA Publishing in the UK. She plans to continue on to become an editor, all while continuing to write. When she isn't writing she enjoys the theatre, concerts, and lazing about in front of the TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
September 15, 2016
Release day! I hope you enjoy!
Let's get straight to the point, shall we? I fucking LOVED this book. It is steamy, romantic, refreshing perfection.
Quick overview: James is a renowned food critic for the New York Times and writes gay romance novels on the side. Bastien is a renowned French chef who owns a restaurant called L'amour Dans La Ville (Love in the City) in New York. James writes under the pseudonym Harper Carlisle and wrote the first bad review of L'amour Dans La Ville since it opened a year ago. The review makes Bastien angry and cranky since he thinks the reviewer is way off track.
James and Harper meet at a bake sale at the elementary school where their nieces and nephews attend. The attraction is there and Bastien makes a small overture for James to visit him at his restaurant. After encouragement from his siblings, James decides to go back to L'amour Dans La Ville as James, not Harper, and get to know Bastien a little better. The two men find themselves in bed together and the sex is ridiculously hot.
And Bastien DOES beg for it IN FRENCH. Fuck...
At this point, Bastien does not know James is Harper, which is the major plot point that causes the future angst (and romance, believe it or not).
Points that need to be made:
1. The sex here is kinky and delicious, but not so kinky as to throw off folks who don't like the BDSM genre. There are no whips or chains, just a bit of spanking and toys and a touch of orgasm denial. Jesus, it's hot as hell, let me tell you!
2. This book is a romance to beat all romances. These men were adorable in their courtship and genuinely liked and felt real affection for one another. They listened, confided and worked hard at winning the other over. And it worked, in spades.
3. James and Bastien's family and friends were the perfect kind of crazy in their love for James and Bastien. I honestly felt only love and affection from all the siblings/spouses/friends towards James and Bastien.
4. Now, when I say refreshing, I really mean it. I'm going to put a spoiler tag here, not because it gives away a plot point but because I want those who haven't read it yet to experience it themselves and (hopefully) come to the same delightful, refreshing realization.
Read this book. It is heartfelt, fluffy, sexy and utterly romantic. It will definitely be one of my top 10 books for 2016.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Galley copy of Dinner for One provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
Let's get straight to the point, shall we? I fucking LOVED this book. It is steamy, romantic, refreshing perfection.
Quick overview: James is a renowned food critic for the New York Times and writes gay romance novels on the side. Bastien is a renowned French chef who owns a restaurant called L'amour Dans La Ville (Love in the City) in New York. James writes under the pseudonym Harper Carlisle and wrote the first bad review of L'amour Dans La Ville since it opened a year ago. The review makes Bastien angry and cranky since he thinks the reviewer is way off track.
James and Harper meet at a bake sale at the elementary school where their nieces and nephews attend. The attraction is there and Bastien makes a small overture for James to visit him at his restaurant. After encouragement from his siblings, James decides to go back to L'amour Dans La Ville as James, not Harper, and get to know Bastien a little better. The two men find themselves in bed together and the sex is ridiculously hot.
I want to make you come again, and then I want to fuck you while you're over sensitive and begging for it.
And Bastien DOES beg for it IN FRENCH. Fuck...
His back arches off the bed at the first touch of James’s tongue over his hole. It’s hot and wet, and he hasn’t been touched like this in so long. James isn’t hesitant or slow. He goes right for it. One of Bastien’s hands goes to his headboard, bracing himself, and the other tightens in James’s hair. “S’il te plaît, S’il te plaît,” he gasps, legs clenching around James’s torso.
At this point, Bastien does not know James is Harper, which is the major plot point that causes the future angst (and romance, believe it or not).
Points that need to be made:
1. The sex here is kinky and delicious, but not so kinky as to throw off folks who don't like the BDSM genre. There are no whips or chains, just a bit of spanking and toys and a touch of orgasm denial. Jesus, it's hot as hell, let me tell you!
2. This book is a romance to beat all romances. These men were adorable in their courtship and genuinely liked and felt real affection for one another. They listened, confided and worked hard at winning the other over. And it worked, in spades.
3. James and Bastien's family and friends were the perfect kind of crazy in their love for James and Bastien. I honestly felt only love and affection from all the siblings/spouses/friends towards James and Bastien.
4. Now, when I say refreshing, I really mean it. I'm going to put a spoiler tag here, not because it gives away a plot point but because I want those who haven't read it yet to experience it themselves and (hopefully) come to the same delightful, refreshing realization.
Read this book. It is heartfelt, fluffy, sexy and utterly romantic. It will definitely be one of my top 10 books for 2016.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Galley copy of Dinner for One provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
October 29, 2016
*I received a copy by the author in exchange of an honest review.*
This book - Oh My God! I've been on a stomach-aching journey of laughing out loud, making a pitstop at sobbing land, and then getting back to laughing out loud; only this time, it was with a blocked nose and throat! ;-)
This is the second book in a row whose every dot and comma and letter I've simply devoured! I just couldn't get enough of it all. The book is just utterly tailor-made for me, it seems.
I come from a huge family of nosy yet loving cousins, so I thoroughly enjoyed the antics of James's family. I love to eat and sometimes bake cakes, so I loved Bastien and his dishes. I loved the writing. Not for a single moment did I feel a need to take my eyes off the book so I could take a short break. Nope (with a popping sound just like James made! ;-) ). Not at all. I had to sleep, but other than that, I read this in one breath, so to speak.
The witty and humour bits just kept the book going. Bastien was so cute and shy sometimes, I wanted to simply gobble him up. And James was oh so snooty at times that I felt the need to pinch his cheeks!
This book is an adventure ride. "Strap your seatbelt tight and enjoy the ride" are my words for whovever starts to read this. It is one of the books that I know I will reread as soon as I am done with my reading challenge! ;-)
This book - Oh My God! I've been on a stomach-aching journey of laughing out loud, making a pitstop at sobbing land, and then getting back to laughing out loud; only this time, it was with a blocked nose and throat! ;-)
This is the second book in a row whose every dot and comma and letter I've simply devoured! I just couldn't get enough of it all. The book is just utterly tailor-made for me, it seems.
I come from a huge family of nosy yet loving cousins, so I thoroughly enjoyed the antics of James's family. I love to eat and sometimes bake cakes, so I loved Bastien and his dishes. I loved the writing. Not for a single moment did I feel a need to take my eyes off the book so I could take a short break. Nope (with a popping sound just like James made! ;-) ). Not at all. I had to sleep, but other than that, I read this in one breath, so to speak.
The witty and humour bits just kept the book going. Bastien was so cute and shy sometimes, I wanted to simply gobble him up. And James was oh so snooty at times that I felt the need to pinch his cheeks!
This book is an adventure ride. "Strap your seatbelt tight and enjoy the ride" are my words for whovever starts to read this. It is one of the books that I know I will reread as soon as I am done with my reading challenge! ;-)
July 15, 2016
~2.5~
One dissenting opinion coming right up.
I can see how this book would appeal to many readers. James and Bastien are two very nice guys who like to cook. James is a well known food critic. Bastien owns a French restaurant. The two meet at an elementary bake sale of all places and begin a steamy affair.
There's spark and romance; there's sex and more sex (and not just vanilla lovin'; we're talking plugs and paddles here, people). These two barely exchange three words before the toys come out. Abrupt much?
But I found the story less than compelling. I consider myself a foodie. I LOVE watching cooking shows and cooking competitions, and I've read books where cooking takes stage center, but the pages upon pages of Bastien cooking for James or James cooking for Bastien or James and Bastien cooking together ... well, I started skimming because I just couldn't take another French dish described in minute detail.
Even though these MCs are in their mid- to late-30s, they act younger. They giggle and blush, and really don't seem to do anything but cook and make out.
James' family is so OTT cutesy, I had a hard time believing adult siblings would act like this. His younger twin brothers, especially, acted like tweens.
For all the talk of these guys being all cut and sexy, they eat a LOT of heavy food, and there's only one mention of Bastien going to the gym. And I don't care. Perfection isn't required for me to fall for a main character, but how realistic is that really? There's a reason so many chefs carry a few extra pounds.
Once Bastien finds out James has been lying to him (not a spoiler; this is the "sticky situation" mentioned in the blurb), there's a long period of separation where not much happens. The epilogue is sweet, of course it is, but the story rang hollow.
Despite my complaints, I would have rated this book a solid three stars had it not been for the third-person, present-tense POV. This is hands down my least favorite narrative style. It's jarring and frantic; it asks the reader to believe that whatever is happening is happening RIGHT NOW, when of course we know it isn't.
If you like super easy stories and aren't picky about the present-tense POV like I am, this one is worth checking out. It wasn't my thing, but it might well be yours.
One dissenting opinion coming right up.
I can see how this book would appeal to many readers. James and Bastien are two very nice guys who like to cook. James is a well known food critic. Bastien owns a French restaurant. The two meet at an elementary bake sale of all places and begin a steamy affair.
There's spark and romance; there's sex and more sex (and not just vanilla lovin'; we're talking plugs and paddles here, people). These two barely exchange three words before the toys come out. Abrupt much?
But I found the story less than compelling. I consider myself a foodie. I LOVE watching cooking shows and cooking competitions, and I've read books where cooking takes stage center, but the pages upon pages of Bastien cooking for James or James cooking for Bastien or James and Bastien cooking together ... well, I started skimming because I just couldn't take another French dish described in minute detail.
Even though these MCs are in their mid- to late-30s, they act younger. They giggle and blush, and really don't seem to do anything but cook and make out.
James' family is so OTT cutesy, I had a hard time believing adult siblings would act like this. His younger twin brothers, especially, acted like tweens.
For all the talk of these guys being all cut and sexy, they eat a LOT of heavy food, and there's only one mention of Bastien going to the gym. And I don't care. Perfection isn't required for me to fall for a main character, but how realistic is that really? There's a reason so many chefs carry a few extra pounds.
Once Bastien finds out James has been lying to him (not a spoiler; this is the "sticky situation" mentioned in the blurb), there's a long period of separation where not much happens. The epilogue is sweet, of course it is, but the story rang hollow.
Despite my complaints, I would have rated this book a solid three stars had it not been for the third-person, present-tense POV. This is hands down my least favorite narrative style. It's jarring and frantic; it asks the reader to believe that whatever is happening is happening RIGHT NOW, when of course we know it isn't.
If you like super easy stories and aren't picky about the present-tense POV like I am, this one is worth checking out. It wasn't my thing, but it might well be yours.
July 23, 2016
4.5 Hearts
Let me just start with three incredible words-Ginger French Chef.
French chef who's a little bit kinky is what drew me to this one; the ginger was a bonus. Bastien wrapped me around his little finger almost immediately. He's a nervous baker. He blushes adorably and often much to James' delight. He fastidious without being fussy. He's almost as sweet as his confections. Almost.
Bastien is executive chef and owner of L'amour Dans La Ville, a quaint French restaurant with a wait list a mile long. Naturally this garners the attention of the New York Times food critic Harper Carlisle. He gives a mediocre review which to any chef is the equivalent of being slapped in the face with ensuing ire. Were it not for a chance meeting at their niece and nephews school bake sale they might never have met. The only problem is James goes by his first name so Bastien has no idea who he is, but James does.
James grapples with whether or not to pursue his crush and return to L'amour Dans La Ville ultimately deciding anyone who can make religieuses a religious experience had to have had an off night. Plus, cute ginger who blushes. So second chance it is and it made James' toes curl it was so good.
To say they have chemistry would be an understatement. They click. There is a synergy between them that translates to the page. Harding painstakingly builds this relationship from the ground up. They date and pay attention to each others likes and dislikes. They talk and have comfortable silences. She shows their connection, how attracted they are to one another and she paid attention to the details. Those details that I tend to forget I love so much until an author puts them into words like how when you're really into someone you want to be close to them, touch them, feed each other, spend time with them not necessarily doing anything exciting or adventurous, but watching Friends or cooking.
And they are hot as fire.
I think I just swallowed my tongue. That was just the tip of the iceberg, my friends. As their relationship progresses they start dabbling in the kinky shenanigans. I wouldn't characterize James as a dom, but the way he takes care of Bastien turned my innards to goo. Bastien is his priority. It says something about a person that's willing to push the envelope and put their needs aside to please their partner.
Needless to say I completely invested in them and was just as heartbroken when the conflict happened. Harding again showed how devastated both of them were, how they didn't really know what to do with themselves now that their routine was disrupted and how their sadness affected those around them.
I was amused by the secondary characters before but they really shined during the conflict. James has a huge family and they all pitch in to help him formulate a plan to win back Bastien while Bastien's sister and staff encourage him to at least hear James out.
James gives it his all. He puts thought, sweat and an ungodly amount of money into wooing him back. Bastien doesn't make it easy on him and that makes their reunion that much sweeter. Harding made me believe they missed each other.
I didn't want to let them go and I don't think Harding did either because the epilogue is a little extended which is why I'm deducting half a heart. I enjoyed it but it slowed the pace down significantly.
Nevertheless, I loved this book and did from the beginning. I actually had another review to write while reading this and was fussy about it because it was keeping me away from James and Bastien. I commend Harding on making ordinary events remarkably entertaining to read about. Dinner for One is a great comfort read that I know I'll read again.
Recommend to fans of contemporary romance, gingers, cooking and those who like a little kink in their romance.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Let me just start with three incredible words-Ginger French Chef.
French chef who's a little bit kinky is what drew me to this one; the ginger was a bonus. Bastien wrapped me around his little finger almost immediately. He's a nervous baker. He blushes adorably and often much to James' delight. He fastidious without being fussy. He's almost as sweet as his confections. Almost.
Bastien is executive chef and owner of L'amour Dans La Ville, a quaint French restaurant with a wait list a mile long. Naturally this garners the attention of the New York Times food critic Harper Carlisle. He gives a mediocre review which to any chef is the equivalent of being slapped in the face with ensuing ire. Were it not for a chance meeting at their niece and nephews school bake sale they might never have met. The only problem is James goes by his first name so Bastien has no idea who he is, but James does.
James grapples with whether or not to pursue his crush and return to L'amour Dans La Ville ultimately deciding anyone who can make religieuses a religious experience had to have had an off night. Plus, cute ginger who blushes. So second chance it is and it made James' toes curl it was so good.
To say they have chemistry would be an understatement. They click. There is a synergy between them that translates to the page. Harding painstakingly builds this relationship from the ground up. They date and pay attention to each others likes and dislikes. They talk and have comfortable silences. She shows their connection, how attracted they are to one another and she paid attention to the details. Those details that I tend to forget I love so much until an author puts them into words like how when you're really into someone you want to be close to them, touch them, feed each other, spend time with them not necessarily doing anything exciting or adventurous, but watching Friends or cooking.
And they are hot as fire.
He doesn't think he's ever come so hard in his entire life. He might be crying a little.
"I want to make you come again, and then I want to fuck you while you're oversensitive and begging for it."
I think I just swallowed my tongue. That was just the tip of the iceberg, my friends. As their relationship progresses they start dabbling in the kinky shenanigans. I wouldn't characterize James as a dom, but the way he takes care of Bastien turned my innards to goo. Bastien is his priority. It says something about a person that's willing to push the envelope and put their needs aside to please their partner.
Needless to say I completely invested in them and was just as heartbroken when the conflict happened. Harding again showed how devastated both of them were, how they didn't really know what to do with themselves now that their routine was disrupted and how their sadness affected those around them.
I was amused by the secondary characters before but they really shined during the conflict. James has a huge family and they all pitch in to help him formulate a plan to win back Bastien while Bastien's sister and staff encourage him to at least hear James out.
James gives it his all. He puts thought, sweat and an ungodly amount of money into wooing him back. Bastien doesn't make it easy on him and that makes their reunion that much sweeter. Harding made me believe they missed each other.
I didn't want to let them go and I don't think Harding did either because the epilogue is a little extended which is why I'm deducting half a heart. I enjoyed it but it slowed the pace down significantly.
Nevertheless, I loved this book and did from the beginning. I actually had another review to write while reading this and was fussy about it because it was keeping me away from James and Bastien. I commend Harding on making ordinary events remarkably entertaining to read about. Dinner for One is a great comfort read that I know I'll read again.
Recommend to fans of contemporary romance, gingers, cooking and those who like a little kink in their romance.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2021
5 stars for the foodporn
3.15 stars for the rest.
3.15 stars for the rest.
July 10, 2016
So promising. This was a 4.5 - 5 star read for the first 60% of this book. I was all smiles at being introduced to this gem.
The blurb says it all, so I won't rehash it, but I LOVED the relationship build with these two. The banter, the awkwardness, the sex! It was all so well written. Simple but amazing. When these two flirt, it's all shy smiles and cuteness galore, but when the clothes come off.....holy hell, they light the sheets on fire. I was fanning myself.
So of course I was expecting what happened at 60%. This isn't a spoiler since the blurb fully prepares you for it. But it was like the story came to this abrupt halt. And then it dragged. And dragged. AND DRAGGED.
All of the magic that I had been riding on for the first part of the book was kinda gone. It wasn't bad, mind you. It was still cutish. But it was boring and had lost its luster.
I got my HEA. I lost my smoking hot smexy times. I lost my banter. I lost my awesome relationship-build, until it picked back up again after the 90% mark.
So I have to deduct a star for that nonsense. Otherwise, I do highly recommend this story, and I will be on the lookout for other books by this author. I really enjoyed the writing. And man, can she write a sex scene. Cheers!
The blurb says it all, so I won't rehash it, but I LOVED the relationship build with these two. The banter, the awkwardness, the sex! It was all so well written. Simple but amazing. When these two flirt, it's all shy smiles and cuteness galore, but when the clothes come off.....holy hell, they light the sheets on fire. I was fanning myself.
So of course I was expecting what happened at 60%. This isn't a spoiler since the blurb fully prepares you for it. But it was like the story came to this abrupt halt. And then it dragged. And dragged. AND DRAGGED.
All of the magic that I had been riding on for the first part of the book was kinda gone. It wasn't bad, mind you. It was still cutish. But it was boring and had lost its luster.
I got my HEA. I lost my smoking hot smexy times. I lost my banter. I lost my awesome relationship-build, until it picked back up again after the 90% mark.
So I have to deduct a star for that nonsense. Otherwise, I do highly recommend this story, and I will be on the lookout for other books by this author. I really enjoyed the writing. And man, can she write a sex scene. Cheers!
August 17, 2016
Well, that was absolutely delightful! Low angst, humorous, sexy as hell, plus the whole deception plot is really, really well handled.
I would recommend this...but maybe eat first? Because the food descriptions are plentiful and may make you ravenous!
I would recommend this...but maybe eat first? Because the food descriptions are plentiful and may make you ravenous!
November 8, 2016
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.8
Mixed feelings again... I do hope this isn’t a new trend for me.
If you read this review after this warning it’s YOUR problem not mine. It contains spoilers galore, so stop here if you haven’t read it yet!
I loved the idea of the story. The French Chef and the Food Critic. I really enjoy the whole idea surrounding food and wine. It can be so so hot as well. I even liked the MC’s. LIKED being the operative word here.
Bastien was sweet and I enjoyed his brand of “shy” - James, mmmm I liked him well enough but - saying that though...I have to agree with some of the other reviews on the ages of the MC’s. I do feel that the blushing and giggles made it a tad difficult to keep in mind that we were dealing with 30 something characters both in well established careers.
James’s family was a little weird. I like weird. But again..the twins are supposed to be 26’ish and their actions at times didn’t make me bring to mind a late twenties male. I understand and appreciate “fun” characters. But maybe this just went a little askew? I don’t really know how to put it, read it and make your own assumptions.
I understand the whole plot around the “Lie to him till he likes you enough to overlook it” thing. It was kind of fun to sit back and see where this was going to end up. But I felt...that it was missing something? The relationship went WAY too fast for my personal taste. They basically did the first date, directly hop-skip-and-jump between the sheets and don’t really surface again till the shit hits the proverbial fan?
There were brief and funny attempts to change this “the baseball game” but it never really took flight.
I am still in awe of Bastien’s (and everyone he shares the news with” amazing capability of perception. He takes ONE look at the names in front of him. “James Harper Carlisle” and he immediately knows that in the whole of New York City, this is THE Harper Carlisle who gave him a bad review. Seeing has he also likes food. It’s the only logical explanation. AND...he does all this while under shock/stress of a personal family emergency!!!! WOW.
This guy isn’t just an amazing cook! He should have been a FBI agent! LOL
Following this whole power of perception, this full grown 30-something man, decides that he will simply not mention it and move on. There isn’t any other way of handling this matter after all.... (Hormonal drama much? ) Hell I understand disappointment and anger as much as the next person. I can even understand the family drama more deserving of his immediate attention. But man up and tell the lying bastard what you think of him at least before crawling into a hole a having a pity party?
I did like the cooking spree brought on by his disappointment though.
The whole stepping in and saving the day thing initiated by James’s twin brothers was a bit eyebrow rising to me, but I went with it. Leave your phone at home for a week and drink ridiculous amounts of alcohol. Then deal with the problem. Hmmmm I don’t know about that but apparently it worked for James. (Again...the age thing?)
I LOVED how James fixed his mess. I think that was sweet and personal to Bastien and it meant something.
Overall I did actually still enjoy the story. I just think it could have been so much better? You know? Not sorry I read it at all. That I can honestly tell you. It was sweet with very little external factors bringing in unnecessary drama. I liked that about the book as well.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.8
Mixed feelings again... I do hope this isn’t a new trend for me.
If you read this review after this warning it’s YOUR problem not mine. It contains spoilers galore, so stop here if you haven’t read it yet!
I loved the idea of the story. The French Chef and the Food Critic. I really enjoy the whole idea surrounding food and wine. It can be so so hot as well. I even liked the MC’s. LIKED being the operative word here.
Bastien was sweet and I enjoyed his brand of “shy” - James, mmmm I liked him well enough but - saying that though...I have to agree with some of the other reviews on the ages of the MC’s. I do feel that the blushing and giggles made it a tad difficult to keep in mind that we were dealing with 30 something characters both in well established careers.
James’s family was a little weird. I like weird. But again..the twins are supposed to be 26’ish and their actions at times didn’t make me bring to mind a late twenties male. I understand and appreciate “fun” characters. But maybe this just went a little askew? I don’t really know how to put it, read it and make your own assumptions.
I understand the whole plot around the “Lie to him till he likes you enough to overlook it” thing. It was kind of fun to sit back and see where this was going to end up. But I felt...that it was missing something? The relationship went WAY too fast for my personal taste. They basically did the first date, directly hop-skip-and-jump between the sheets and don’t really surface again till the shit hits the proverbial fan?
There were brief and funny attempts to change this “the baseball game” but it never really took flight.
I am still in awe of Bastien’s (and everyone he shares the news with” amazing capability of perception. He takes ONE look at the names in front of him. “James Harper Carlisle” and he immediately knows that in the whole of New York City, this is THE Harper Carlisle who gave him a bad review. Seeing has he also likes food. It’s the only logical explanation. AND...he does all this while under shock/stress of a personal family emergency!!!! WOW.
This guy isn’t just an amazing cook! He should have been a FBI agent! LOL
Following this whole power of perception, this full grown 30-something man, decides that he will simply not mention it and move on. There isn’t any other way of handling this matter after all.... (Hormonal drama much? ) Hell I understand disappointment and anger as much as the next person. I can even understand the family drama more deserving of his immediate attention. But man up and tell the lying bastard what you think of him at least before crawling into a hole a having a pity party?
I did like the cooking spree brought on by his disappointment though.
The whole stepping in and saving the day thing initiated by James’s twin brothers was a bit eyebrow rising to me, but I went with it. Leave your phone at home for a week and drink ridiculous amounts of alcohol. Then deal with the problem. Hmmmm I don’t know about that but apparently it worked for James. (Again...the age thing?)
I LOVED how James fixed his mess. I think that was sweet and personal to Bastien and it meant something.
Overall I did actually still enjoy the story. I just think it could have been so much better? You know? Not sorry I read it at all. That I can honestly tell you. It was sweet with very little external factors bringing in unnecessary drama. I liked that about the book as well.
January 27, 2017
***3.75 Stars***
Bastien and James were just too damn adorable together!
Just the perfect blend of sweet and sexy!
Be warned to have food on hand while reading. All the food talk and recipes had me hungry!
However, I do have to say that I enjoyed the first 70-75% more than the last 1/4 of the book. I felt the aftermath of the big reveal of James's job as a food critic was a bit over-exaggerated. Maybe it's because I didn't think it was that big of a deal...I dunno.
Buuuuuuuuut, James's method of apologizing was so sweet. I loved the idea, I loved Bastien's reaction to it...ALL OF IT!
Unfortunately, instead of focusing more on the message and emotion behind the grand ol' plan of apologizing, the last 1/4 of the book was more about the food than the relationship. I didn't need so much detail about the execution of the plan.
But back to the bright spots of the book....I gotta give a shout out to James's meddling family. They were hilarious....a little too up in his business, but they had me laughing nonetheless.
Did I mention Bastien and James were hot together? Yes? No? Who cares....it should be mentioned again! HOT!!
James's dirty talk....A+
"I want to make you come again, and then I want to fuck you while you're over sensitized and begging for it."
Bastien's hunger for James...A+
"What do you want?"
"I want you to take me apart."
He asked....and it was good.
And that epilogue? More adorable cuteness and sexiness.
This is my first time reading Meg Harding, but it certainly won't be my last. I'll definitely keep going with this series and will be checking out her backlist.
If you're looking for a combination of sweet and sexy, with a small dash of angst and some great recipes, this is a book you need to pick up.
October 8, 2020
Bastien owns one of the best French restaurants in town. He has so many excellent reviews but the one he keeps focusing on is the bad one. The critic for the New York Times called the place pretentious because they speak French “This place has French pouring out of it’s cracks.” He further decided the waitstaff pretentious and the food expensive and bland. Ouch.
Bastien knows his food is good and his restaurant excellent. But he still focuses on that. Luckily, he is busy making religieuses pastries for his niece’s school bake sale. I love that he makes these because his family wants them – they are the pastries on the cover of the book and my, but we need to try these.
While helping at the bake sale he meets James and sparks fly. As the conversation progresses, James comes to realize he gave Bastien the bad review. He doesn’t mention it, but he knows. And he gets knocked down one step right away when he realizes Bastien’s family is French; hence they speak French. He gets another when he tries Bastien’s pastries and realizes, this man is a chef. He can cook. He vows not to come to the restaurant when Bastien invites him because where can this go?
And so we begin the bonding of Bastien and James, who share a love of food, cooking and kinky stuff. Of course, that secret is hanging over them like a lead weight. James and Bastien both have supportive, aggravating, amazing families and James often takes his brother, Laurence, with him for review dinners. Bastien’s place was one of those and Laurence liked it. James asks his brother for advice and I have to admit, I would have given 4 Hearts to this just because of the family interaction. Laurence’s initial response: , This is hilarious. I mean, probably not for you, but for me. Pure gold.” That is such a response I could envision my family giving when there’s a situation. Laurence, of course, blabs to the whole family and James takes their advice.
I really liked both James and Bastien. They have super hot chemistry in bed (and whew, hot!) but they also have things in common and like each other out of bed. I normally hate the whole lying issue but I could see where James was coming from. “If he waits, a bit longer, Bastien might like him enough to overlook it.” And then the longer you wait, the harder it gets. And on it goes. I did question at one point, did they never exchange last names? Because I feel especially when Bastien was telling James about getting a bad review, that the names might have come up.
I liked the way James and Bastien are regular guys. “Then he thinks it’s unlikely he’s going to be able to move anytime soon. If he had his phone, he’d call Laurence and ask him to come over and retrieve it for him.” Haven’t we put ourselves in that position? Bastien handles it more like I would. “I’m still hungry…. You’re eating your feelings.” Yep. Recommended for foodies and for the fluffy romantic lovers especially.
Bastien knows his food is good and his restaurant excellent. But he still focuses on that. Luckily, he is busy making religieuses pastries for his niece’s school bake sale. I love that he makes these because his family wants them – they are the pastries on the cover of the book and my, but we need to try these.
While helping at the bake sale he meets James and sparks fly. As the conversation progresses, James comes to realize he gave Bastien the bad review. He doesn’t mention it, but he knows. And he gets knocked down one step right away when he realizes Bastien’s family is French; hence they speak French. He gets another when he tries Bastien’s pastries and realizes, this man is a chef. He can cook. He vows not to come to the restaurant when Bastien invites him because where can this go?
And so we begin the bonding of Bastien and James, who share a love of food, cooking and kinky stuff. Of course, that secret is hanging over them like a lead weight. James and Bastien both have supportive, aggravating, amazing families and James often takes his brother, Laurence, with him for review dinners. Bastien’s place was one of those and Laurence liked it. James asks his brother for advice and I have to admit, I would have given 4 Hearts to this just because of the family interaction. Laurence’s initial response: , This is hilarious. I mean, probably not for you, but for me. Pure gold.” That is such a response I could envision my family giving when there’s a situation. Laurence, of course, blabs to the whole family and James takes their advice.
I really liked both James and Bastien. They have super hot chemistry in bed (and whew, hot!) but they also have things in common and like each other out of bed. I normally hate the whole lying issue but I could see where James was coming from. “If he waits, a bit longer, Bastien might like him enough to overlook it.” And then the longer you wait, the harder it gets. And on it goes. I did question at one point, did they never exchange last names? Because I feel especially when Bastien was telling James about getting a bad review, that the names might have come up.
I liked the way James and Bastien are regular guys. “Then he thinks it’s unlikely he’s going to be able to move anytime soon. If he had his phone, he’d call Laurence and ask him to come over and retrieve it for him.” Haven’t we put ourselves in that position? Bastien handles it more like I would. “I’m still hungry…. You’re eating your feelings.” Yep. Recommended for foodies and for the fluffy romantic lovers especially.
October 26, 2016
Otro que no era para mi.
February 18, 2017
2.5
It took me forever to finish this book. The writing style (third person present tense) was awkward and disjointed. I couldn't even enjoy the sexy times. They were a bit confusing. And the food....it was too much. I felt like I was watching a romance on the Food Network. I liked the main characters though so it was okay but I won't be finishing the series.
It took me forever to finish this book. The writing style (third person present tense) was awkward and disjointed. I couldn't even enjoy the sexy times. They were a bit confusing. And the food....it was too much. I felt like I was watching a romance on the Food Network. I liked the main characters though so it was okay but I won't be finishing the series.
July 14, 2016
I had to think a little bit about how to review this - I did not love this book like so many others did. All of the elements were there (honestly, too many, almost like the author was going down a checklist of what trips reader triggers - ginger, check, light bdsm, check, quirky family, check), but they didn't form a cohesive whole. It was all just too much.
James and Bastien met and fell into bed getting freaky deaky with toys etc immediately. I'm not saying it doesn't happen or I'm the arbiter of sex or trying to determine how anyone does or should have sex. I'm just saying that, for me, it seemed off that someone would go from bashfully stuttering to say hello to butt beads and light power exchange in an hour or two. Along those lines, confident James was over the top to cocky and that was off putting.
The families - so, so much family. I felt like I missed some prior books explaining who all of these people were. The twins were interesting - they were described in such a way that they reminded me of the Bobo brothers from Dora the Explorer. Maybe there will be other books to come featuring these characters but it was easy to get lost with all of the siblings in this story when they really didn't add much.
The cooking - and cooking and cooking. If you are a foodie, maybe you will enjoy this. For me, there was so much talk about making food that it overpowered the story. I was left with a craving for cinnamon apple crepes.
I enjoyed the last 20% of the book more than the rest, I think. A more humble James was a more enjoyable James, IMO. And the resolution was very sweet.
So many people enjoyed this book, it's possible that you will too. It just wasn't for me.
2.5 - 3 stars.
James and Bastien met and fell into bed getting freaky deaky with toys etc immediately. I'm not saying it doesn't happen or I'm the arbiter of sex or trying to determine how anyone does or should have sex. I'm just saying that, for me, it seemed off that someone would go from bashfully stuttering to say hello to butt beads and light power exchange in an hour or two. Along those lines, confident James was over the top to cocky and that was off putting.
The families - so, so much family. I felt like I missed some prior books explaining who all of these people were. The twins were interesting - they were described in such a way that they reminded me of the Bobo brothers from Dora the Explorer. Maybe there will be other books to come featuring these characters but it was easy to get lost with all of the siblings in this story when they really didn't add much.
The cooking - and cooking and cooking. If you are a foodie, maybe you will enjoy this. For me, there was so much talk about making food that it overpowered the story. I was left with a craving for cinnamon apple crepes.
I enjoyed the last 20% of the book more than the rest, I think. A more humble James was a more enjoyable James, IMO. And the resolution was very sweet.
So many people enjoyed this book, it's possible that you will too. It just wasn't for me.
2.5 - 3 stars.
July 18, 2016
3.5 stars
I really liked both men.
Bastien could easily be written as a pretentious snob so finding him awkward and rather shy with James was adorable. And him owning a cat is another winning point *lol* #catlover
And while I am not a big fan of romance that involves or contains secret (which of course will end up blowing up on the MC's face as climax), I could understand why James kept his identity a secret. I mean, reviews can be sacrilegious for restaurants, right? It can make or break them. Besides, James showed that he could do good groveling. Although the idea came from his brothers *lol*
Speak of James's siblings, I thought they were awesome! I loved reading about MC's siblings too.
However, I also found the numerous sex scenes to be distracting and ended skimming most of them. Like Bastien's sister said, adult relationship is more than just sex, and I found those slightly lacking here. The groveling part also took a little too long, even if James successfully making me hungry.
Oh, and like my friend Irene texted me... Why did suddenly James's occupation as the food critic faded away while he was with Bastien? He turned into a cook rather than a critic introduced in the beginning...
Anyway, I heard this will become a series. Well, I will definitely be there for the sequel. I really enjoy Meg Harding's stories so far :)
I really liked both men.
Bastien could easily be written as a pretentious snob so finding him awkward and rather shy with James was adorable. And him owning a cat is another winning point *lol* #catlover
And while I am not a big fan of romance that involves or contains secret (which of course will end up blowing up on the MC's face as climax), I could understand why James kept his identity a secret. I mean, reviews can be sacrilegious for restaurants, right? It can make or break them. Besides, James showed that he could do good groveling. Although the idea came from his brothers *lol*
Speak of James's siblings, I thought they were awesome! I loved reading about MC's siblings too.
However, I also found the numerous sex scenes to be distracting and ended skimming most of them. Like Bastien's sister said, adult relationship is more than just sex, and I found those slightly lacking here. The groveling part also took a little too long, even if James successfully making me hungry.
Oh, and like my friend Irene texted me... Why did suddenly James's occupation as the food critic faded away while he was with Bastien? He turned into a cook rather than a critic introduced in the beginning...
Anyway, I heard this will become a series. Well, I will definitely be there for the sequel. I really enjoy Meg Harding's stories so far :)
December 7, 2017
I loved the idea of a chef and a food critics as a main characters for the story, loved the cover as well.
It was good in the beginning of the story where Bastien got so mad after James wrote a review, a bad review of his restaurant.
Their real first meeting was also interesting and I was hoping that I can get more to see what's going to happen with the two guys.
And I've got so many cooking lessons (not that I'm complained), but with so many cooking and dining and nothing's really happened with their 'instant relationship', I felt bored easily. And the food didn't appealed me anymore.
The sex parts was hot. That's why I keep reading this and finished the story.
There's no angst after Bastien found out who James really are. There's some silent moments and then James cooked for him instead of talking (that's probably how chefs saying they're sorry though), and then Bastien forgave him. The end.
If you're a cook or chef or you're into this kind of story, you'll probably going to love this one. Give it a try, and let's see, and I hope you'll enjoy the story.
And there's plenty of food and cooking tricks, what's not to love?
* Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Lilly from Lelyana's Book Blog. *
It was good in the beginning of the story where Bastien got so mad after James wrote a review, a bad review of his restaurant.
Their real first meeting was also interesting and I was hoping that I can get more to see what's going to happen with the two guys.
And I've got so many cooking lessons (not that I'm complained), but with so many cooking and dining and nothing's really happened with their 'instant relationship', I felt bored easily. And the food didn't appealed me anymore.
The sex parts was hot. That's why I keep reading this and finished the story.
There's no angst after Bastien found out who James really are. There's some silent moments and then James cooked for him instead of talking (that's probably how chefs saying they're sorry though), and then Bastien forgave him. The end.
If you're a cook or chef or you're into this kind of story, you'll probably going to love this one. Give it a try, and let's see, and I hope you'll enjoy the story.
And there's plenty of food and cooking tricks, what's not to love?
* Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Lilly from Lelyana's Book Blog. *
September 25, 2021
Carino, ma mi aspettavo di più da questa autrice. La narrazione è carente di discorsi diretti, che vengono raccontati solo per dare informazioni e passare avanti velocemente. Aggiungere qualche pagina in più e presentarci meglio la loro crescita sarebbe stata di gran lunga una scelta migliore.
July 15, 2016
This was just delightful. A light romance with two really really likeable MCs. Just what the doctor ordered to cheer me up and make my heart flutter with happiness.
On a scale of 100 for cuteness I would definitely give this at least 110. Bastion and James are just edible.(please note the FOOD pun *g* and sorry, I know it's not funny...... )
Both are in their thirties which makes the whole story even sweeter. Because they just fall for each other so hard and in such a sweet, wonderful way, it had me ooohing and aaahing all along. And although the story's undeniably sweet, it's neither sugary nor overdone. Just lovely and normal and real, with a bit of hot and a small helping of kink on the side. And I sooooo loved the cooking. I might actually have to look up some of these recipes.
I full- heartedly applaud the author for telling a tale of love that was simple - two guys getting to know each other - but so full of feelings and tenderness, it put a smile on my face throughout. I also thoroughly enjoyed the secondary characters who were well drawn and carefully fitted into the plot.
I loved how real this felt - people acting normal, in a way you could understand and enjoy.
In case I wasn't clear enough yet - I just loved this - it was balm on the soul and totally adorable.
Highly recommended.
On a scale of 100 for cuteness I would definitely give this at least 110. Bastion and James are just edible.(please note the FOOD pun *g* and sorry, I know it's not funny...... )
Both are in their thirties which makes the whole story even sweeter. Because they just fall for each other so hard and in such a sweet, wonderful way, it had me ooohing and aaahing all along. And although the story's undeniably sweet, it's neither sugary nor overdone. Just lovely and normal and real, with a bit of hot and a small helping of kink on the side. And I sooooo loved the cooking. I might actually have to look up some of these recipes.
I full- heartedly applaud the author for telling a tale of love that was simple - two guys getting to know each other - but so full of feelings and tenderness, it put a smile on my face throughout. I also thoroughly enjoyed the secondary characters who were well drawn and carefully fitted into the plot.
I loved how real this felt - people acting normal, in a way you could understand and enjoy.
In case I wasn't clear enough yet - I just loved this - it was balm on the soul and totally adorable.
Highly recommended.
December 14, 2019
“Critic meets artist” is a wonderful trope, and with a chef and a food reviewer as the main characters of this novel, what can go wrong? I hoped for (and got!) some excellent descriptions of fabulous dishes, creative recipes, and playful uses of food in the bedroom – all of which would have had me completely happy about reading this book. But there is more! Bastien, the chef, and James, the food critic, are fun characters with a few quirks each, but they have to deal with a shock to their barely-begun relationship when James has to admit he was the one to write the first negative review Bastien’s restaurant ever received. This twist leads to a very unexpected and delightful turn of events that made this novel doubly enjoyable for me. Absolutely scrumptious!
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 17, 2017
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this. I do wish that James deception hadn't gone on so long and that he'd owned up to it before Bastien found out how he did. Loved his apology and that they made up relatively quickly. Especially considering the long breaks that happened in books 2 and 3.
I really enjoyed this. I do wish that James deception hadn't gone on so long and that he'd owned up to it before Bastien found out how he did. Loved his apology and that they made up relatively quickly. Especially considering the long breaks that happened in books 2 and 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2018
Even better on the re-read, and since I knew that the food-preparations were too much I just skipped those descriptions (even though that's cheating, since they're STILL there:-) but this made me smile a lot and I thought it was a really nice, sexy, fun romance.
So I'm upping my rating from three to four stars, I was really happy with this.
------------------------------------------------
So my GR friends span quite wide in their reviews of this book, but I have a special liking for Meg Harding after her books: Hat Trick and The Last Favor.
And this was a NICE surprise. The whole foodie-thing can be quite overwhelming (IMO) for people not caring about special techniques and fancy french/italian/chinese (etc.) food, and it was the reason for my original three-star-rating; the focus on food was too much and took away from the story at times, BUT the rest of the plot and the MC's were really awesome.
Bastien and James meet at a school bake sale, and sparks fly. James however is reluctant to start something, since he gave a critical review of Bastien's restaurant (without Bastien knowing who he is). And after some dubious advice from his brother and sister-in-law, he decides to seek out Bastien, and thus begins a really nice/sexy/well-written relationship.
I loved Bastien (and his red hair, and his blushing :-), I loved James and his 'thoughts'. Oh, and the sex scenes were quite HOT!
The 'conflict' is well-used, when creating drama in romance-books, and it was used here as well, but it worked for this story.
Who haven't wanted something, but been led astray by well-meaning advice from friends and family, to get what they want?
Of course it's not okay to lie, but I understand the compulsion/dilemma in this instance.
And HALLELUJAH for Meg Harding and her decision to make James apologize AND work for the forgiveness of Bastien (even though he went on 'holiday' for a week, that was a wee bit misplaced).
This was a nice, funny, well-written book (with the exception of too much food-talk IMO) and Meg Harding is almost a one-click-buy for me (her book A Prince For A Kingdom is still a MAJOR minus for me.)
So go forth and enjoy the humor and the relationship in this one!
So I'm upping my rating from three to four stars, I was really happy with this.
------------------------------------------------
So my GR friends span quite wide in their reviews of this book, but I have a special liking for Meg Harding after her books: Hat Trick and The Last Favor.
And this was a NICE surprise. The whole foodie-thing can be quite overwhelming (IMO) for people not caring about special techniques and fancy french/italian/chinese (etc.) food, and it was the reason for my original three-star-rating; the focus on food was too much and took away from the story at times, BUT the rest of the plot and the MC's were really awesome.
Bastien and James meet at a school bake sale, and sparks fly. James however is reluctant to start something, since he gave a critical review of Bastien's restaurant (without Bastien knowing who he is). And after some dubious advice from his brother and sister-in-law, he decides to seek out Bastien, and thus begins a really nice/sexy/well-written relationship.
I loved Bastien (and his red hair, and his blushing :-), I loved James and his 'thoughts'. Oh, and the sex scenes were quite HOT!
The 'conflict' is well-used, when creating drama in romance-books, and it was used here as well, but it worked for this story.
Who haven't wanted something, but been led astray by well-meaning advice from friends and family, to get what they want?
Of course it's not okay to lie, but I understand the compulsion/dilemma in this instance.
And HALLELUJAH for Meg Harding and her decision to make James apologize AND work for the forgiveness of Bastien (even though he went on 'holiday' for a week, that was a wee bit misplaced).
This was a nice, funny, well-written book (with the exception of too much food-talk IMO) and Meg Harding is almost a one-click-buy for me (her book A Prince For A Kingdom is still a MAJOR minus for me.)
So go forth and enjoy the humor and the relationship in this one!
August 25, 2016
5 "Romance definitely doesn't bloom from a bad review" stars!
So sweet! Loved the couple, their family and friends' antics, laughed a lot with them :) I don't know if this a series, but I'd read it, really liked this author's writing.
Oh and my favorite thing about this book is the timing and pacing, it feels like a real romance that could really happen, it takes weeks, they get to know each other, then months and months, and when one of them screws up it takes time for them to make up and everything feels earned and you have one happy reader with both of your main characters. I think many authors should take notes, I usually take stars off of my ratings when I get to the end of a book and I see them screaming their love for each other within 5 days O.O unless the book is really good and you can make me forget it, I just say it to myself it's bookland lol
Anyway, I really loved this books timeline of events and all the talk about food that left me wanting to try a lot of recipes! Recommended if you want a sweet, sexy almost angst-free read ;)
So sweet! Loved the couple, their family and friends' antics, laughed a lot with them :) I don't know if this a series, but I'd read it, really liked this author's writing.
Oh and my favorite thing about this book is the timing and pacing, it feels like a real romance that could really happen, it takes weeks, they get to know each other, then months and months, and when one of them screws up it takes time for them to make up and everything feels earned and you have one happy reader with both of your main characters. I think many authors should take notes, I usually take stars off of my ratings when I get to the end of a book and I see them screaming their love for each other within 5 days O.O unless the book is really good and you can make me forget it, I just say it to myself it's bookland lol
Anyway, I really loved this books timeline of events and all the talk about food that left me wanting to try a lot of recipes! Recommended if you want a sweet, sexy almost angst-free read ;)
September 25, 2017
Cute.
Sometimes cute and famishing.
Others cute and kinky.
Very french.
A little less on innovation (both story and cooking since I searched the recipes and they are like exact copies of the first link on each.)
And the story’s exactly the blurb in writing.
But the writing never bores and their romance of sorts wins you by the end.
Sometimes cute and famishing.
Others cute and kinky.
Very french.
A little less on innovation (both story and cooking since I searched the recipes and they are like exact copies of the first link on each.)
And the story’s exactly the blurb in writing.
But the writing never bores and their romance of sorts wins you by the end.
August 10, 2016
OK, first off...this book made me hungry as I kept reading, so many delicious foods that I now want to try!
Secondly, this was HOT! Loved the chemistry between Bastien and James, it was scorching and just yummmmmmyy to read about! It's not super kinky, just enough with a light touch of it, for me to really love.
Sexual chemistry aside, these two had a wonderful relationship and I especially loved when James had to win back Bastien's favor and did so with - what else, food! I loved the romance, I loved them falling for each other, getting to read about their families and friends, and making things work!
I'm still not a fan of present-tense writing, but it was manageable in this story, I think since it was written so well and the characters were so well written.
Definitely can recommend this one, I loved it!
Secondly, this was HOT! Loved the chemistry between Bastien and James, it was scorching and just yummmmmmyy to read about! It's not super kinky, just enough with a light touch of it, for me to really love.
Sexual chemistry aside, these two had a wonderful relationship and I especially loved when James had to win back Bastien's favor and did so with - what else, food! I loved the romance, I loved them falling for each other, getting to read about their families and friends, and making things work!
I'm still not a fan of present-tense writing, but it was manageable in this story, I think since it was written so well and the characters were so well written.
Definitely can recommend this one, I loved it!
dnf
July 24, 2016This is a huge 'maybe', as the blurb doesn't sound very original? But the books I read previously by this author were 4* reads, I might give it a try. Depends on reviews.
This didn't work for me at all. Tried it several times, but I couldn't get into the writing style (present tense) and the whole thing left me cold. It started out ok, but lost my interest pretty soon. Made it up to about 30%, started skimming and then decided to DNF.
This didn't work for me at all. Tried it several times, but I couldn't get into the writing style (present tense) and the whole thing left me cold. It started out ok, but lost my interest pretty soon. Made it up to about 30%, started skimming and then decided to DNF.
July 31, 2016
With adorable MC's and ultimate food porn (it's just cruel to google French dishes on an empty stomach), this is a perfect read if you're in the mood for sweet, hot and low angst.
June 17, 2017
That was sweet, low-angst and light reading.
**I want to review it soon**
**I want to review it soon**
October 24, 2018
4 Stars
Usually I am not a fan of books with excessive miscommunication issues or needless obfuscation...so it very much surprised me how much I liked this one. The whole romance/drama is pretty much built on the omission of important information, and yet it wasn't irritating. I knew when the advice was given by James' family members to just not tell Bastien that he was the tough food critic that kind of panned Bastien's restaurant that it was going to blow up in his face, and still I think I'd have done the same thing.
And I so very much loved James' way of apologizing, plus Bastien's notes were just adorable. I'm not a "foodie" so the repeated instances of searching for recipes, looking at images on Pinterest/Instagram, shopping for ingredients, food prep & eventual cooking kind of grated on me a bit (I like to cook, not read about other people cooking). But I kind of skimmed those.
I do have to say that this sweet romance was also highly erotic. I wasn't expecting the kinky scene with the beads (!) but I am not complaining...it was really hot. So, yeah, I'll probably give the other titles in this series a whirl, probably skipping the food-details...
Usually I am not a fan of books with excessive miscommunication issues or needless obfuscation...so it very much surprised me how much I liked this one. The whole romance/drama is pretty much built on the omission of important information, and yet it wasn't irritating. I knew when the advice was given by James' family members to just not tell Bastien that he was the tough food critic that kind of panned Bastien's restaurant that it was going to blow up in his face, and still I think I'd have done the same thing.
And I so very much loved James' way of apologizing, plus Bastien's notes were just adorable. I'm not a "foodie" so the repeated instances of searching for recipes, looking at images on Pinterest/Instagram, shopping for ingredients, food prep & eventual cooking kind of grated on me a bit (I like to cook, not read about other people cooking). But I kind of skimmed those.
I do have to say that this sweet romance was also highly erotic. I wasn't expecting the kinky scene with the beads (!) but I am not complaining...it was really hot. So, yeah, I'll probably give the other titles in this series a whirl, probably skipping the food-details...
Read
July 13, 2016I think Meg Harding is in my brain at times and it’s the coolest thing I can think to have happen to me though she doesn’t know she is in my brain. I just think she is there because each time I read a new book from her, every one of my likes is checked off and she just nails it. She has quickly become one of my favorite authors.
So this book. It was really good and super full of sexy times mixed with a whole lot of food porn. Food porn is never a bad thing and the way the men in this book use food it oh so delectable.
So, to make a quick note of the set up: So, James is an important food critic for the New York Times and he gives a rather unfavorable review to L’amour Dans La Ville that Bastien owns. When James attends a bake sale with his brother and sister in law and formally meets Bastien the attraction to the fair skinned curly haired ginger with blue eyes is instatnt. When James learns the restaurant Basiten owns the doubt of anything happening sets in as James knows there is no way Bastien would give him a chance if he knew who James was. Goodness. I want to smack James a bit for listening to his family on what to do about Bastien and keeping his job from him and yet, I want to just sit back and let it all play out because what is life without a bit of drama? BORING… am I right?
He doesn’t know what he can do. If there even is anything to do. How would he feel if he were in Bastien’s place? He’d be pretty mad, probably. Wouldn’t ever want to talk to him again. This, he thinks, is all stuff he should have considered before he started this stupid farce.
When Bastien offers James a chance to dine at his restaurant, he doesn’t think he’ll take him up on the offer but then he shows up. He shows up and not only gives Bastien a chance, he gives his food a second chance and realizes that he made a mistake with his review.
Reviews… let me just take a moment and say reviewing this book makes me a bit anxious. I am a little odd with my reviews as I know I ramble and they are more of me talking than formally reviewing. You see, I mean, the whole story is based on a less than favorable review and how that plays into both men’s lives and relationships and while I know I loved this book, that I am not going to meet the author and fall in love, it’s still odd to find the words.
BUT… this was so damn good my anxiety can take a back seat. I adored the instant attraction between James and Bastien. I adored how much time they spent together and how their chemistry fly of the page and made me blush. Yeah, these two were hella sexy in and out of bed and when you add all the food into the mix? I am one satisfied ginger over here.
Yes, this relationship begins on an omission of career and yet, I am totally okay with that. I know that some have a firm line drawn in the sand when it comes to lies in romance but in real life, there are things you do keep from those you care about to not hurt them. Some you never let be known and others, you finally spill your guts for one reason or another so for me, James not telling Bastien what he does for his day job was okay and handled more than satisfactorily down the road.
I think it’s great you’re happy. I think it sucks it’s going to fall apart because you’re a moron.
The family interaction on the book just made me smile. Both men have amazing families and from what I have learned, this is the first book in a series based on James’ brothers… I wonder who we are gonna get next?
Now, there is some kink in this book and boy howdy did it heat up the pages. Yeah, it's totally hot. I love that Bastien wants to capitulate to James and that James is more than willing to be all toppy. I loved that the kink was there but that it wasn’t overplayed and didn’t overwhelm the contemporary romance, more like it was the perfect seasoning to the perfect dish. Goodness, I promised myself I wouldn’t use food references in this but I just had to.
Dinner for One was a sweet, sexy and succulent romance. I adored the hell out of both men but have to give a hug to my fellow ginger Bastien for making James fall head over heels with all his wonderful ginger traits. I loved everything about this and hope that if you give it a try, you’ll love it too.
July 13, 2016
4.5 Stars for this delicious contemporary enemies-to-lovers chef/critic M/M romance.
The review was written for Joyfully Jay Reviews and can be accessed here: http://joyfullyjay.com/2016/07/review...
Bastien is a chef in a French restaurant in Manhattan. He works hard to keep his reputation and food at the highest level, and he’s frustrated that a respected critic has given him an average rating. Bastien pours his emotions into food and goes all out creating beautiful pastries for his niece’s school bake sale. While purveying the treats, Bastien meets James.
James is a classy man, and he likes classy food. Makes sense, as he’s a food critic. He never expected to encounter the delicious des religieuses, or the delectable chef selling them, at his nephew’s bake sale. He finds the freckled, ginger Frenchman mouthwatering, flirty, and available. James only recognizes that Bastien is the head chef of a restaurant he recently reviewed when he invites James to be his guest there. And that’s a bucket of ice water to the groin, because James didn’t quite like his food. Still, he’s so intrigued, and the pastries he’s bought show James that Bastien is a gifted chef. Was he wrong in his review? Should he start anything, knowing that Bastien would never have been so cordial—or flirty—if he knew James was a food critic?
James allows one of his many brothers to convince him to give Bastien and his restaurant another try—without revealing his professional identity, and James is mortified that he loves the food, and can’t wait for “dessert” with his chef. Man, the sex is dynamite, too!
So, James is in an awkward position. The more they see each other, the more he’s falling for Bastien. And James fully acknowledges that the many dishes he’s now had from his restaurant are clearly better than his three-star review would indicate. Not only does he make up his mind to come clean to Bastien, he writes a revised review, for the first time ever.
And, well, things don’t quite work out like James hopes.
This is such a sweet read. The sexy sex was scrumptious. And I’m a goner for chef romances that have lots of cooking/eating because I’m a total foodie. James’s other brothers convince him to woo Bastien back. Thinking through their time together, James trusts the old adage, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and decides to cook for Bastien. James isn’t a trained chef, but he’s learned to cook and appreciates well-made fare. French cuisine isn’t his forte, but he selects dishes that he can competently replicate. While Bastien works, James cooks—leaving his carefully prepared dishes outside Bastien’s door so he’ll find them when he comes in late after closing the restaurant. Bastien is angry, but slowly charmed, by James’ culinary apologies as this back-and-forth continues. He finds himself looking forward to what James will leave him each night, and even playfully critiques each dish—something that James admires.
While Bastien enjoys his dinners for one, he comes to accept that some secrets aren’t horrible, and James is as competent in the kitchen as he is in the bedroom. What chef can’t appreciate a man who cooks from his heart? The writing was smooth, and the story enchanting. I had a few outlying questions about James’ absolutely free workday schedule, and his demonstrable wealth. His large family was fun and loving, and I’m intrigued to learn there’s another romance featuring one of his brothers that sounds interesting. If you crave chef romances, and guys who dig a taste of kink (think dominance games and a bit of bondage), I think you’ll really eat this one up. (Yes, all my puns are intended.)
The review was written for Joyfully Jay Reviews and can be accessed here: http://joyfullyjay.com/2016/07/review...
Bastien is a chef in a French restaurant in Manhattan. He works hard to keep his reputation and food at the highest level, and he’s frustrated that a respected critic has given him an average rating. Bastien pours his emotions into food and goes all out creating beautiful pastries for his niece’s school bake sale. While purveying the treats, Bastien meets James.
James is a classy man, and he likes classy food. Makes sense, as he’s a food critic. He never expected to encounter the delicious des religieuses, or the delectable chef selling them, at his nephew’s bake sale. He finds the freckled, ginger Frenchman mouthwatering, flirty, and available. James only recognizes that Bastien is the head chef of a restaurant he recently reviewed when he invites James to be his guest there. And that’s a bucket of ice water to the groin, because James didn’t quite like his food. Still, he’s so intrigued, and the pastries he’s bought show James that Bastien is a gifted chef. Was he wrong in his review? Should he start anything, knowing that Bastien would never have been so cordial—or flirty—if he knew James was a food critic?
James allows one of his many brothers to convince him to give Bastien and his restaurant another try—without revealing his professional identity, and James is mortified that he loves the food, and can’t wait for “dessert” with his chef. Man, the sex is dynamite, too!
So, James is in an awkward position. The more they see each other, the more he’s falling for Bastien. And James fully acknowledges that the many dishes he’s now had from his restaurant are clearly better than his three-star review would indicate. Not only does he make up his mind to come clean to Bastien, he writes a revised review, for the first time ever.
And, well, things don’t quite work out like James hopes.
This is such a sweet read. The sexy sex was scrumptious. And I’m a goner for chef romances that have lots of cooking/eating because I’m a total foodie. James’s other brothers convince him to woo Bastien back. Thinking through their time together, James trusts the old adage, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and decides to cook for Bastien. James isn’t a trained chef, but he’s learned to cook and appreciates well-made fare. French cuisine isn’t his forte, but he selects dishes that he can competently replicate. While Bastien works, James cooks—leaving his carefully prepared dishes outside Bastien’s door so he’ll find them when he comes in late after closing the restaurant. Bastien is angry, but slowly charmed, by James’ culinary apologies as this back-and-forth continues. He finds himself looking forward to what James will leave him each night, and even playfully critiques each dish—something that James admires.
While Bastien enjoys his dinners for one, he comes to accept that some secrets aren’t horrible, and James is as competent in the kitchen as he is in the bedroom. What chef can’t appreciate a man who cooks from his heart? The writing was smooth, and the story enchanting. I had a few outlying questions about James’ absolutely free workday schedule, and his demonstrable wealth. His large family was fun and loving, and I’m intrigued to learn there’s another romance featuring one of his brothers that sounds interesting. If you crave chef romances, and guys who dig a taste of kink (think dominance games and a bit of bondage), I think you’ll really eat this one up. (Yes, all my puns are intended.)
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