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Chef's Special
After years of slowly working her way up the ladder, Emily Desjardins is finally poised at the next step—cooking at the kind of restaurant she’d love to one day own. Her new boss is classically trained, has stunningly high standards, and effortlessly designs delicious, creative cuisine. She’s also demanding, inflexible, ridiculously confident and so hot it’s almost silly. Emily is determined to spend her time learning all of the tricks and tools she’ll need to keep moving up. But keeping her mind on the job with the enigmatic Blake Chadwick pervading her thoughts and her dreams proves much harder than she could have ever imagined.
578 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2016
47 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Susan X. Meagher
59 books370 followersSusan X Meagher was born in southern Illinois and grew up in East St Louis. She attended college in Chicago and started her working career there. She and her partner moved to the Los Angeles area in the late 80's. It was there that she started to write. Her first few books were simply posted on the web and became the I Found My Heart in San Francisco series. In 2002 she moved to New York and divides her time between Manhattan and the Jersey Shore. She has published thirteen books in the series and has gone on to write many individual books as well. She has partnered with other authors on two short story books and has written many stories that have been published in other mainstream anthologies. Susan is active in the lesbian author community and loves to attend Women's week at Provincetown and the GCLS annual conventions. Her stories revolve around the relationships that two women can build when given a chance and how those relationships can strengthen the individual and the partnership. Her genre is lesbian romance/fiction and she believes strongly in the happy ending that we all so deserve. Susan X Meagher was awarded a 2011 Lesbian Fiction Readers’ Choice Award for Favorite Lesbian Fiction Writer. She is the recipient of the 2014 Alice B. Medal for her body of work.
From the author's website: I live in New York with my spouse, Carrie. We've lived in Chicago and Los Angeles for significant periods, but New York fits us very well. I love to discuss my work and fiction in general. My goal in writing is to explore feelings. I want to entertain, but I also want to make people think. I've heard that life is all about finding out who we are. To me, life if about finding out who other people are. I'm interested in the small details of life, that's how a story about two young women in college is slowly becoming a 26 book series. The joke in Seinfield was that it was about nothing. I feel the same about most of my books. They are about the many things that happen when nothing is happening. The small joys and sorrows of everyday life can be fascinating, especially if you care about the people involved. I try to create characters that will make a reader care deeply. I'm always interested in hearing how close I am to that goal. So please drop me a line whenever you have a comment or a question about a story. Writing is a pretty solitary pursuit and it's great to know that I'm not alone.
From the author's website: I live in New York with my spouse, Carrie. We've lived in Chicago and Los Angeles for significant periods, but New York fits us very well. I love to discuss my work and fiction in general. My goal in writing is to explore feelings. I want to entertain, but I also want to make people think. I've heard that life is all about finding out who we are. To me, life if about finding out who other people are. I'm interested in the small details of life, that's how a story about two young women in college is slowly becoming a 26 book series. The joke in Seinfield was that it was about nothing. I feel the same about most of my books. They are about the many things that happen when nothing is happening. The small joys and sorrows of everyday life can be fascinating, especially if you care about the people involved. I try to create characters that will make a reader care deeply. I'm always interested in hearing how close I am to that goal. So please drop me a line whenever you have a comment or a question about a story. Writing is a pretty solitary pursuit and it's great to know that I'm not alone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 3, 2017
If you read the blurb for Chef’s Special, it will lead you to believe the book is simply about a sous chef falling for her boss, and it’s so much more than that. Told entirely from Emily’s perspective, the story follows her as she begins working for Blake, faces the biggest challenge of her life (which I won’t spoil, but will say made me feel like I was punched in the stomach), and how her life moves forward from there. Blake is in the picture from the beginning to the end, with their chemistry crackling and their rapport building naturally and in a way that demonstrates their mutual respect. Despite never showing Blake’s side of things, we’re not left lacking because the author does such a great job of showing us how Blake feels through her words and actions.
Full review (Curve Magazine): http://www.curvemag.com/Reviews/Chefs...
Full review (The Lesbian Review): http://www.thelesbianreview.com/chefs...
Full review (Curve Magazine): http://www.curvemag.com/Reviews/Chefs...
Full review (The Lesbian Review): http://www.thelesbianreview.com/chefs...
February 8, 2019
This was my first SXM book and wow can this lady write! Her flow and descriptors were beautiful and I found myself fully immersed in the narrative. I can't wait to read more of this author.
I rate the book a solid 3.75. I actually really liked the two MCs and this very long book gave time for their relationship to build in a unique fashion. Both start out communicating fairly well, wanting "no strings attached" sex due to the reality of their jobs at the time. They both respect and understand this initially, but of course, the feelings get deeper, and this is when the communication breaks down, which is always frustrating for me to wade through. The two MCs come from quite different backgrounds and even though it is told through Emily's POV, we readers get a good sense of both stories.
Though I love food and have a great respect for a well crafted meal, and will gladly without regret drop a good amount of cash for a culinary experience, I found some sections overly long with details from the kitchen, hence some skimming was required. At the same time, I developed a deeper respect for the workings of a restaurant, and kudos to the author for obviously doing her research. I would much rather be a patron than a cook! Other reviewers highlighted other aspects that I found tough to swallow, like how women are treated in many kitchens, lack of respect, the insane amount of hours for low pay, etc.
I was surprised that, with the length of the book, the most massive event that befalls Emily and that changes the course of the story, is wheedled down to a mere paragraph. I felt like it came out of nowhere and literally had a to go back a few pages to see if I missed something. I felt this could have been given more depth.
The chemistry build-up is hot between Blake and Emily throughout the book, and there's some great sex between them in the beginning, but it fizzles down to more talk of "play time" than action, then fade to black. Considering how bold each character appeared to be in accepting their desires, I wish there was more details. Say it with me now: Less kitchen, More bedroom! WOOO! Steam factor, about 3/5.
I rate the book a solid 3.75. I actually really liked the two MCs and this very long book gave time for their relationship to build in a unique fashion. Both start out communicating fairly well, wanting "no strings attached" sex due to the reality of their jobs at the time. They both respect and understand this initially, but of course, the feelings get deeper, and this is when the communication breaks down, which is always frustrating for me to wade through. The two MCs come from quite different backgrounds and even though it is told through Emily's POV, we readers get a good sense of both stories.
Though I love food and have a great respect for a well crafted meal, and will gladly without regret drop a good amount of cash for a culinary experience, I found some sections overly long with details from the kitchen, hence some skimming was required. At the same time, I developed a deeper respect for the workings of a restaurant, and kudos to the author for obviously doing her research. I would much rather be a patron than a cook! Other reviewers highlighted other aspects that I found tough to swallow, like how women are treated in many kitchens, lack of respect, the insane amount of hours for low pay, etc.
I was surprised that, with the length of the book, the most massive event that befalls Emily and that changes the course of the story, is wheedled down to a mere paragraph. I felt like it came out of nowhere and literally had a to go back a few pages to see if I missed something. I felt this could have been given more depth.
The chemistry build-up is hot between Blake and Emily throughout the book, and there's some great sex between them in the beginning, but it fizzles down to more talk of "play time" than action, then fade to black. Considering how bold each character appeared to be in accepting their desires, I wish there was more details. Say it with me now: Less kitchen, More bedroom! WOOO! Steam factor, about 3/5.
January 19, 2017
I always love Susan X Meagher books! This one had me yelling at the characters and drooling over food menus. I will put this in my read again list!
January 7, 2017
If you like long and detailed stories, this book is for you. Very well written, you'll learn a lot about what happens in the kitchen of a restaurant. Oh, and the romance is also lovely!
August 5, 2022
5 Star - Yes Chef!
When you start a Susan X Meagher book you are in for a story. I loved this book, but I can see it might not be for everyone because it is very long. This book deeply delves into what it's like to work in the kitchen of a high-end restaurant. It worked for me because I found all that detail fascinating. I enjoyed learning all the terminology and lingo and politics. Ms. Meagher did a great job showing and telling so it never felt like an info dump.
I really like both characters. They were unique with different backstories. The book is long enough that you get to meet both families and really get to know them as well-rounded characters. Their chemistry was really good and their romance was realistic moving from lusty friends with benefits to two people deeply in love.
I could not put this book down. I was reading it every spare second. I just love when a book grabs like that.
When you start a Susan X Meagher book you are in for a story. I loved this book, but I can see it might not be for everyone because it is very long. This book deeply delves into what it's like to work in the kitchen of a high-end restaurant. It worked for me because I found all that detail fascinating. I enjoyed learning all the terminology and lingo and politics. Ms. Meagher did a great job showing and telling so it never felt like an info dump.
I really like both characters. They were unique with different backstories. The book is long enough that you get to meet both families and really get to know them as well-rounded characters. Their chemistry was really good and their romance was realistic moving from lusty friends with benefits to two people deeply in love.
I could not put this book down. I was reading it every spare second. I just love when a book grabs like that.
May 28, 2017
Emily Desjardins gets her dream job working as a sous chef for a renowned chef in a restaurant in Manhattan. Working for the fascinating and exacting Blake Chadwick, Emily has the opportunity to lift her skills to be one of the best. For both Emily and Blake, it is all about the quality of the food. However, the longer Emily works there, the harder it is to concentrate when Blake is so amazing at her job, and is so smoking hot. When Blake starts invading her dreams, Emily wonders if the professional and personal could ever meet.
Written from Emily's perspective, this is a long novel by Meagher which delves into the lives to two strong, clever and passionate women. Meagher has written nearly 40 books, all lesbian romances, so she has plenty of form in this genre. What is so astonishing is just how good her books are, and this one is very possibly the best of the ones I've read so far.
Meagher explores the minutiae of running a professional kitchen, and what it must be like to chef in various places. I'm not a foodie, but the descriptions were rich with texture and flavour, but never overwhelming to the senses. Too much detail and it slows down the action, and too little and there is no sense of time or place. This is a hard line to walk, and Meagher has completely pulled it off here.
The detail of Emily's life in a kitchen, and working closely with Blake, allows for a more natural development of attraction, and a stronger connection between the two women. However, it also leaves room for Meagher to give the women significant difficulties to overcome, in both their professional and personal lives. I have to say, the plot twist that pushes the story into the second act was gut wrenching, and I never would have picked it.
What I really loved, and what made this book so special, was the way the two characters interacted. The action and the conversation was so well handled, as was the release of backstory to explain the behaviour of the two main protagonists. It was all so well handled by Meagher.
I fell a little in love with both characters, for different reasons, and really wanted to spend more time with them. This is not a short book, but I felt compelled to keep reading because I simply wanted to be in their company, and in their world. I feel a bit bereft now that I've finished the book. For the first time in decades, I'm seriously considering starting to read the book again the day after I finished it.
Quite simply, I don't want to leave these characters, and the world Meagher has so careful crafted for them. This is a ripper of a read. Enjoy.
Written from Emily's perspective, this is a long novel by Meagher which delves into the lives to two strong, clever and passionate women. Meagher has written nearly 40 books, all lesbian romances, so she has plenty of form in this genre. What is so astonishing is just how good her books are, and this one is very possibly the best of the ones I've read so far.
Meagher explores the minutiae of running a professional kitchen, and what it must be like to chef in various places. I'm not a foodie, but the descriptions were rich with texture and flavour, but never overwhelming to the senses. Too much detail and it slows down the action, and too little and there is no sense of time or place. This is a hard line to walk, and Meagher has completely pulled it off here.
The detail of Emily's life in a kitchen, and working closely with Blake, allows for a more natural development of attraction, and a stronger connection between the two women. However, it also leaves room for Meagher to give the women significant difficulties to overcome, in both their professional and personal lives. I have to say, the plot twist that pushes the story into the second act was gut wrenching, and I never would have picked it.
What I really loved, and what made this book so special, was the way the two characters interacted. The action and the conversation was so well handled, as was the release of backstory to explain the behaviour of the two main protagonists. It was all so well handled by Meagher.
I fell a little in love with both characters, for different reasons, and really wanted to spend more time with them. This is not a short book, but I felt compelled to keep reading because I simply wanted to be in their company, and in their world. I feel a bit bereft now that I've finished the book. For the first time in decades, I'm seriously considering starting to read the book again the day after I finished it.
Quite simply, I don't want to leave these characters, and the world Meagher has so careful crafted for them. This is a ripper of a read. Enjoy.
February 20, 2017
Chef’s Special is a great read for foodies, and for those who, like me, merely have an appreciation for fine food. It’s a unique romance between two women, but it’s also about the two women’s love affair with food.
I like the level of depth and detail that Susan X. Meagher brings to her main characters, their lives and relationships. Emily, and especially Blake, are flawed individuals who are not necessarily good in relationships, and we come to learn why they behave the way they do. We learn about Blake and Emily’s backgrounds and about what shaped their current lives, but overall, the story and characters look to the future rather than the past. An unfortunate event brings a surprising obstacle for one of the main characters, and the way she responds to it gives us a lot of insight into her character.
Susan X. Meagher’s characters are always unique, and the romance between Blake and Emily is also different - it’s not just a boss/employee relationship, it’s essentially a non-relationship. Blake and Emily are friends who, as chefs, feel that they are too busy to have a relationship, so they just get together for sex, but they both feel a strong emotional connection during the “just sex.” Blake in particular does not want to be in relationship, but what happens when it seems that they might want to deepen what they have together?
In addition to the romance, Susan X. Meagher gives us a well-researched and very plausible account of the lives and careers of professional chefs and sous chefs in high-end restaurants. I found it fascinating and I learned a lot about what goes on behind the scenes in a restaurant kitchen in terms of the level of work, planning and coordination.
Chef’s Special is a long read (the paperback is 500 pages), but it never felt slow and the story never bogged down - I was always eager to find out what would happen next. The book is well written and well edited and I only found about three typos, which is pretty good for a book of this length and not enough to affect my star rating.
I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lesbian romance that differs from the usual formula.
I like the level of depth and detail that Susan X. Meagher brings to her main characters, their lives and relationships. Emily, and especially Blake, are flawed individuals who are not necessarily good in relationships, and we come to learn why they behave the way they do. We learn about Blake and Emily’s backgrounds and about what shaped their current lives, but overall, the story and characters look to the future rather than the past. An unfortunate event brings a surprising obstacle for one of the main characters, and the way she responds to it gives us a lot of insight into her character.
Susan X. Meagher’s characters are always unique, and the romance between Blake and Emily is also different - it’s not just a boss/employee relationship, it’s essentially a non-relationship. Blake and Emily are friends who, as chefs, feel that they are too busy to have a relationship, so they just get together for sex, but they both feel a strong emotional connection during the “just sex.” Blake in particular does not want to be in relationship, but what happens when it seems that they might want to deepen what they have together?
In addition to the romance, Susan X. Meagher gives us a well-researched and very plausible account of the lives and careers of professional chefs and sous chefs in high-end restaurants. I found it fascinating and I learned a lot about what goes on behind the scenes in a restaurant kitchen in terms of the level of work, planning and coordination.
Chef’s Special is a long read (the paperback is 500 pages), but it never felt slow and the story never bogged down - I was always eager to find out what would happen next. The book is well written and well edited and I only found about three typos, which is pretty good for a book of this length and not enough to affect my star rating.
I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lesbian romance that differs from the usual formula.
February 19, 2017
A big 5 stars! Bravo Susan X. Meagher for writing this beauty!
"Chef's Special" gives us a realistic view on what happens in a professional kitchen.
The menu is sumptious, the chefs are hot, the struggle is real and you will do yourself an enormous favor if you read this sweet romance. If you love food, you will certainly love this!
"Chef's Special" gives us a realistic view on what happens in a professional kitchen.
The menu is sumptious, the chefs are hot, the struggle is real and you will do yourself an enormous favor if you read this sweet romance. If you love food, you will certainly love this!
February 25, 2017
Chef's Special is a brutally realistic tale about two women in the food industry overcoming a variety of issues to get together. At just over 500 pages, it's quite the long read - with everything being slowed down drastically compared to most romance books. This isn't necessarily a bad thing in and of itself, but I did find myself struggling with the lack of fluff / happiness for so long. The first half of the book, in particular, was especially difficult for me. The author does such a brilliant job of portraying the hardships of life in the food industry as well as the problems lesbian women face in general (especially from men), that you end up feeling anger and sadness that people live like that. I desperately wanted to shield them from how crappy people can be :(
If the book took a more positive tone or had the core relationship develop in a healthy way after the half way point, I think I would have given this book a 4 or a 5. After all, the writing and characters were simply superb. The two main women were unique and each of them had a variety of strengths as well as flaws. The sexual scenes between them (at least at first) were captivating - with the desire the two women felt for each other shining through. Even the way the author described things like food was exquisite - with the reader being able to truly see just how passionate these people were towards it.
Unfortunately, the drama just kept on coming in ways I found especially unpleasant - the biggest of which revolved around the broken communication trope. Basically, people end up not sharing what they're thinking / feeling and small things get blown out of proportion. The last quarter of the book took this to the extreme . I actually found myself losing interest in the core relationship because of how childish these women were acting. The author made some attempt at explaining this by giving one character a pretty tragic background story that involved underage sex with a teacher and betrayal by her family - but it just didn't work for me. By the time the happily ever after rolled around, I just didn't feel connected to the book or the characters anymore.
If you're the type of person who loves lots of drama / emotion throughout a book and can deal with reading about people who have no idea how to communicate, then I think you'll really like this book - especially if you're looking for something different. Not only will you get a book whose plot is unlike most lesbian romance stories, but you'll also get exposed to a variety of realistic situations lesbian women have to face both in life outside of work and in the food industry. That being said, if you're the type of person, like me, who wants a bit of fluff as well as characters that can actually share their thoughts / feelings with one another - you may want to look elsewhere.
If the book took a more positive tone or had the core relationship develop in a healthy way after the half way point, I think I would have given this book a 4 or a 5. After all, the writing and characters were simply superb. The two main women were unique and each of them had a variety of strengths as well as flaws. The sexual scenes between them (at least at first) were captivating - with the desire the two women felt for each other shining through. Even the way the author described things like food was exquisite - with the reader being able to truly see just how passionate these people were towards it.
Unfortunately, the drama just kept on coming in ways I found especially unpleasant - the biggest of which revolved around the broken communication trope. Basically, people end up not sharing what they're thinking / feeling and small things get blown out of proportion. The last quarter of the book took this to the extreme . I actually found myself losing interest in the core relationship because of how childish these women were acting. The author made some attempt at explaining this by giving one character a pretty tragic background story that involved underage sex with a teacher and betrayal by her family - but it just didn't work for me. By the time the happily ever after rolled around, I just didn't feel connected to the book or the characters anymore.
If you're the type of person who loves lots of drama / emotion throughout a book and can deal with reading about people who have no idea how to communicate, then I think you'll really like this book - especially if you're looking for something different. Not only will you get a book whose plot is unlike most lesbian romance stories, but you'll also get exposed to a variety of realistic situations lesbian women have to face both in life outside of work and in the food industry. That being said, if you're the type of person, like me, who wants a bit of fluff as well as characters that can actually share their thoughts / feelings with one another - you may want to look elsewhere.
January 6, 2017
Enjoyed this one quite a bit. Lots of time for the relationship to build, plenty of interesting scenes dealing with the life of a chef, and good chemistry between the leads. Pretty happy about this book. There was some of the non-communication issues that we see in romance novels but it didn't last too long so I don't feel bad about it.
I think anyone who's enjoyed a SXM book before will definitely like this one.
I think anyone who's enjoyed a SXM book before will definitely like this one.
July 12, 2020
Chef’s Special is one long story and had me drooling over the fancy (and not so fancy) food that they dish out.. Yes, it’s one hell of a long story.. Yes, some of the scenes are probably not necessary but heck we are there for the ride, so just enjoy it..... And it’s so much more than just a story of a Sous Chef falling for the boss....
September 4, 2024
Chef's Special by Susan X. Meagher is a beautifully written novel that showcases the author's talent for vivid descriptions and immersive storytelling. The setting of a bustling restaurant kitchen provides a unique backdrop for the relationship between the two main characters, Emily and Blake. Their dynamic begins with a "no strings attached" arrangement, but as feelings deepen, communication issues arise, complicating their romance.
While the slow build of their relationship adds depth, the 500+ page length felt a little too long. The pacing slows down significantly in the latter half, and I found the chemistry between the two leads fizzled out.
Overall, Chef's Special is a solid read for those who enjoy in-depth character exploration and are comfortable with a heavier focus on drama. At times this felt heavy going, but overall I enjoyed Emily's career development storyline particularly.
While the slow build of their relationship adds depth, the 500+ page length felt a little too long. The pacing slows down significantly in the latter half, and I found the chemistry between the two leads fizzled out.
Overall, Chef's Special is a solid read for those who enjoy in-depth character exploration and are comfortable with a heavier focus on drama. At times this felt heavy going, but overall I enjoyed Emily's career development storyline particularly.
November 19, 2017
This book had me messed up half the time..I mean it in a good way. For one thing I couldn't figure out why it was taking me so long to finish the book(I realise now that it's a freaking 500 page novel). Omg slow burn romances have this amazing feel. This isn't a slow burn perse but the way the story progresses will make you feel like it is.
Emily and Blake are such relatable characters and I could legit picturise them so well. This author got some great stuff going on. * note to self - Check out this author *
Every scene is so detailed and well written. The scenes where there are vivid descriptions about food had me salivating so badly. 🤤
I don't know which fortunate goodreads algorithm led me to this book but man I got no regrets. it's 500 pages of awesomeness. I think this is the longest time I've spent on the book. there is an element of tragedy and I won't spoil it for you but kid you not. It took me two whole days to come to terms with it and resume the reading. Like it was so unexpected. its not anything gory and stuff but yes it is a very difficult situation. here I was mistaking this book for a fuzzy clichéd Romance. that's when it hits you right your chest and makes you feel like shit.
I have so many conflicting emotions about this book. I loved it, hated it, wasn't sure if it was worth my time, spent 5 hours in a row reading it....well you get my point.
Long story short....read this book. it's amazing. Everything is so beautifully paced and nothing seems out of place. I have officially found a new author to stalk.
PS if anyone has any cool book suggestions please feel free to comment.
Thats all folks
Emily and Blake are such relatable characters and I could legit picturise them so well. This author got some great stuff going on. * note to self - Check out this author *
Every scene is so detailed and well written. The scenes where there are vivid descriptions about food had me salivating so badly. 🤤
I don't know which fortunate goodreads algorithm led me to this book but man I got no regrets. it's 500 pages of awesomeness. I think this is the longest time I've spent on the book. there is an element of tragedy and I won't spoil it for you but kid you not. It took me two whole days to come to terms with it and resume the reading. Like it was so unexpected. its not anything gory and stuff but yes it is a very difficult situation. here I was mistaking this book for a fuzzy clichéd Romance. that's when it hits you right your chest and makes you feel like shit.
I have so many conflicting emotions about this book. I loved it, hated it, wasn't sure if it was worth my time, spent 5 hours in a row reading it....well you get my point.
Long story short....read this book. it's amazing. Everything is so beautifully paced and nothing seems out of place. I have officially found a new author to stalk.
PS if anyone has any cool book suggestions please feel free to comment.
Thats all folks
April 27, 2023
5 stars. This could’ve been even longer than it already is and I would not have mind at all. I adored this book. Two very interesting characters in Blake and Emily and a wonderful romance between the two of them. I liked how chill this story was but that doesn’t mean that it was without drama. The event that happened around the 40% mark or so caught me by surprise and I thought it was such a fascinating thing to do. I liked the way the characters handled it as well.
I loved the writing which isn’t a surprise as I am a big fan of Meagher’s style. I loved how passionate about cooking Emily and Blake were and their chemistry was so good. Their relationship developed slowly but it was very well done. Before I blabber on and on about this book just know that this book was wonderful and romantic and I can’t wait to read it again.
I loved the writing which isn’t a surprise as I am a big fan of Meagher’s style. I loved how passionate about cooking Emily and Blake were and their chemistry was so good. Their relationship developed slowly but it was very well done. Before I blabber on and on about this book just know that this book was wonderful and romantic and I can’t wait to read it again.
May 17, 2020
Another read by Susan X. Meagher that I really liked. More a 3.5 than a 4 star book, as I found it too long (could have been cut by around 1/4 without problems). But I love that every time I read one of her books I do not only get a good romance but learn something. As someone who loves food and loves to cook... this one was right up my alley.
March 9, 2020
I have so much love for Blake and Emily... that ending was perfection.
January 8, 2017
Wow.. i really liked it. The way the story unfolds and the cooking theme feels new and original. I'm having the urge to reread it right away. I loved everything about it. The kitchen scenes, the management and setup of a new business and the chemistry and cluelessness between the main characters. It's always nice to be able to depend on Susan X. Meagher's lengthy novels. Everything get's it's proper buildup and has a natural feel to it.
It's unfortunate to say that the black cover was a huge turnoff and gave off a depressive feeling. So i'm glad i stuck to my belief in the writer, and i was NOT disappointed.
I'd like to have some more info about what happened in the period before the epilogue though!!.
Wouldn't mind to read a short novella about it.
It's unfortunate to say that the black cover was a huge turnoff and gave off a depressive feeling. So i'm glad i stuck to my belief in the writer, and i was NOT disappointed.
I'd like to have some more info about what happened in the period before the epilogue though!!.
Wouldn't mind to read a short novella about it.
January 11, 2024
SXM has done it again! The description of the dishes and ingredients were so well done! I could really imagine it!
But wait! The romance was just as good. I've really started to enjoy reading books where the focus is more on the relationship after the getting together. It's refreshing to see how the couple balances their work, personal issues alongside with their partner and all that comes with being with someone else.
More of the same (but different) please.
But wait! The romance was just as good. I've really started to enjoy reading books where the focus is more on the relationship after the getting together. It's refreshing to see how the couple balances their work, personal issues alongside with their partner and all that comes with being with someone else.
More of the same (but different) please.
November 6, 2018
Really unnecessarily long story that could have easily been shorter. At the beginning it felt like I would read about her everyday living, but then it suddenly jumped. If a book is really long, it has to be either really dramatic, funny or capturing. I did finish it.. The finish was really "anticlimatic" for me where the drama was just pushed in, otherwise it would end up being boring.
January 13, 2017
If I could give this 3 1/2 stars I would. I really enjoyed the plot and the fact that the story revolved around two chef's. In some ways all the talk of food and how they related to food made the story more interesting. There were a couple of spots where the story slowed down for me, but they were limited and didn't bog me down. One of the reasons I enjoy Susan X. Meagher's books is because she writes in a style that feels more mainstream to me. The plot matters and the fact that the main characters are lesbians is just an added bonus. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good romance/easy engaging read
February 9, 2017
Emily Desjardins worked very hard to get to where she is - coveting a cooking position at a prestigious restaurant and working under a talented Chef, Emily Chadwick. It is not always rosy because Emily is not easy to work with; she can be inflexible and extremely demanding. However, Emily is determined to learn that will help her to achieve her ultimate goal one day, to run her own restaurant. Of course, it doesn't help that Emily finds the Chef alluring and hot...
Chef's Special is an enjoyable read! The story builds up slowly while both characters are explored.
Chef's Special is an enjoyable read! The story builds up slowly while both characters are explored.
September 7, 2019
Nice read
Good story and plot. I really liked both of the mains and their chemistry. The story felt like it became too mired down in the little details at times, and likely could have been the same tale with 150 fewer pages. I couldn’t help but root for Blake and Emily though, even when I wanted to smack both of them upside their heads. The final conflict was a bit predictable but quickly resolved. All in all, a good read that’s not quite fade to black, with a HEA.
Good story and plot. I really liked both of the mains and their chemistry. The story felt like it became too mired down in the little details at times, and likely could have been the same tale with 150 fewer pages. I couldn’t help but root for Blake and Emily though, even when I wanted to smack both of them upside their heads. The final conflict was a bit predictable but quickly resolved. All in all, a good read that’s not quite fade to black, with a HEA.
February 18, 2024
Loved it! (Please release in audio soon) 👍🏻
March 15, 2025
It was so nice to read a really good story with an interesting setting and two main characters that I genuinely liked. Meager didn't skimp on detail and was still able to keep my interest.
July 18, 2019
Food & a dose of romance
For those familiar w/ the author’s writing this isn’t a typical romance in that the real challenges to it aren’t external but rather internal emotional journeys of maturation & perhaps some communication issues. Both lead protagonists are hot & successful and the book is really about them figuring out how to make room for romance in their chosen career paths. The book is both hot and sweet and kept me totally entertained. Only downfall is that I didn’t love the “crisis” as I thought that by communicating better they could’ve avoided it but it was the dramatic turn they needed to get over the hump.
For those familiar w/ the author’s writing this isn’t a typical romance in that the real challenges to it aren’t external but rather internal emotional journeys of maturation & perhaps some communication issues. Both lead protagonists are hot & successful and the book is really about them figuring out how to make room for romance in their chosen career paths. The book is both hot and sweet and kept me totally entertained. Only downfall is that I didn’t love the “crisis” as I thought that by communicating better they could’ve avoided it but it was the dramatic turn they needed to get over the hump.
May 4, 2021
I loved this book.
I have a bit of a thing about the world of the chef and the secrets of the restaurant kitchen. It is a hidden world to me, really. I like the way they operate. All efficient and clean and precise.
This book is a longer one in the genre and it was such fun to read that I didn't get lost or bored.
Ok..maybe a little bored down in the Caribbean.. Until things went supersonic! Great last scene there.
My heart!
Add to this a beautiful love story with characters I came to care for and set for the most part in a few boroughs of New York City...Recipe for happiness.
Yeah.. I said it. Don't @ me.
I will read this again sometime. No doubt. Really lovely.
I have a bit of a thing about the world of the chef and the secrets of the restaurant kitchen. It is a hidden world to me, really. I like the way they operate. All efficient and clean and precise.
This book is a longer one in the genre and it was such fun to read that I didn't get lost or bored.
Ok..maybe a little bored down in the Caribbean.. Until things went supersonic! Great last scene there.
My heart!
Add to this a beautiful love story with characters I came to care for and set for the most part in a few boroughs of New York City...Recipe for happiness.
Yeah.. I said it. Don't @ me.
I will read this again sometime. No doubt. Really lovely.
April 6, 2023
This book is SO refreshing, specially because it's so mature.
When you are 30, some of the contemporary YA romances dont have a grip on you anymore because their problems just aren't the same ones you've got.
This precious book takes in consideration rent, roomates, commuting, career and so much more that really makes it so conforting and sounds like a friend telling you a great story.
Besides that, ima person who enjoys complaining and is not at all cool and calm with a lot of bullshit, and being inside emily's(the mc) mind made me see the world in another perspective; not better or worse, it just opened up my point of view and i reaaally like when books do that.
When you are 30, some of the contemporary YA romances dont have a grip on you anymore because their problems just aren't the same ones you've got.
This precious book takes in consideration rent, roomates, commuting, career and so much more that really makes it so conforting and sounds like a friend telling you a great story.
Besides that, ima person who enjoys complaining and is not at all cool and calm with a lot of bullshit, and being inside emily's(the mc) mind made me see the world in another perspective; not better or worse, it just opened up my point of view and i reaaally like when books do that.
February 20, 2018
Emily Desjardins has been working her way up the ladder as a chef and is looking to impress her new boss Blake Chadwick. It may be somewhat difficult to do that since Blake is demanding and has no tolerance for breaking her rules, despite that, Emily finds that impressing the new boss is not all she wants to do.
This is the first book I've read by Susan X. Meagher and I can't say I'm disappointed. In fact, I don't know why it took me so long to read one of her books but I'm glad I started with this one as I really enjoyed it. Chef's Special is a slow burn romance that kept me turning the pages.
The book is written in the third person from Emily's perspective. There was good character growth for both the main characters and especially well written for Emily.
I felt the chemistry between Emily and Blake and couldn't help but root for them every step of the way. There were a few non-communication issues but thankfully they were only minor.
I would recommend this book who enjoys a good romance but I must warn readers that there is a lot of descriptions on what goes behind the scenes of a restaurant and the life of a chef. I found it informative and interesting but I'm not sure others would appreciate these details.
Review also posted here: https://wp.me/p4Pp9O-JL
This is the first book I've read by Susan X. Meagher and I can't say I'm disappointed. In fact, I don't know why it took me so long to read one of her books but I'm glad I started with this one as I really enjoyed it. Chef's Special is a slow burn romance that kept me turning the pages.
The book is written in the third person from Emily's perspective. There was good character growth for both the main characters and especially well written for Emily.
I felt the chemistry between Emily and Blake and couldn't help but root for them every step of the way. There were a few non-communication issues but thankfully they were only minor.
I would recommend this book who enjoys a good romance but I must warn readers that there is a lot of descriptions on what goes behind the scenes of a restaurant and the life of a chef. I found it informative and interesting but I'm not sure others would appreciate these details.
Review also posted here: https://wp.me/p4Pp9O-JL
February 6, 2017
Although I marked this as finished I just couldn't finish the book and in actuality only got 2 or 3 chapters in. I forget now how far I got actually as it wasn't worth my time.
I did not like the executive chefs character at all. Found her weird and just didn't gel with me which I found to be disappointing as I've liked other books by the same author before. I've worked in a kitchen before as a cook and there is no head chef that would give a crap whether someone peed on the toilet or not, nevermind firing a really good staff member over it. I don't know what this was meant to show about the character? Her penchant for perfection? Her weird quirks? Whatever it was, it flew over my head and just annoyed me really and made me roll my eyes and go, "for real?".
That may seem a harsh reason to not continue a book, but to be honest the executive chefs character was already bugging me so that scene kinda pushed me over.
Susan X Meagher has other books that are way better, especially her San Francisco series which I highly recommend reading. This book just wasn't for me.
I did not like the executive chefs character at all. Found her weird and just didn't gel with me which I found to be disappointing as I've liked other books by the same author before. I've worked in a kitchen before as a cook and there is no head chef that would give a crap whether someone peed on the toilet or not, nevermind firing a really good staff member over it. I don't know what this was meant to show about the character? Her penchant for perfection? Her weird quirks? Whatever it was, it flew over my head and just annoyed me really and made me roll my eyes and go, "for real?".
That may seem a harsh reason to not continue a book, but to be honest the executive chefs character was already bugging me so that scene kinda pushed me over.
Susan X Meagher has other books that are way better, especially her San Francisco series which I highly recommend reading. This book just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2020
I'm going to give this one 4.5 stars. There was so much to love/like about this book. Two strong characters take the lead although the book is mostly written from Emily's POV. Blake is the strong, silent type with her emotions buttoned up tight. That is the one small ding for me. The story mostly takes place in New York City which is always a plus with a few tourist destinations thrown in. The story about two chefs is strong. There is a deep dive into the world of high end restaurants and food showing lots of knowledge about the subject. There is an appropriate amount of angst, misfortunes and miscommunication along the way. Gosh, if these characters would only talk to each other (a real life treatise on what not to do in a relationship.)Descriptions of food were mouth watering and added to the story. Interesting family dynamics and BFF's round out the book. Susan X Meagher is an excellent writer and I can't wait to read more since this was my first.
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