Hvězdný šéf

Cocky Men #1

by J.D. Hawkins, Klára Žemličková (Translator)

Cole Chambers je majitel a také šéfkuchař exkluzivní restaurace Knife v Los Angeles.

Precizní, neoblomný, přísný jak k sobě, tak i ke svým kolegům.

Knife je často vyhledávána celebritami a v kulinářském světě je Cole Chambers považován za hvězdu, které se nevyplácí odporovat.

Co se přihodí, když do jeho restaurace nastoupí houževnatá kuchařka Willow, která sem přijela z Idaha hledat štěstí po nevydařeném pokusu vést vlastní podnik?

Promění se kuchyně v bitevní pole silných osobností, nebo do sebe ti dva zapadnou jako dílky skládačky?

Poutavý příběh, který naladí vaše chuťové pohárky a opět vás přesvědčí o tom, že láska prochází žaludkem.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Adult, New Adult, Ebooks, Enemies To Lovers

237 pages, Hardcover

First published July 29, 2017

Reviews

[Lady Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buy Link

AMAZON: http://amzn.to/2uaOVPA



Synopsis

You can call me arrogant as much as you want. But when you're the best at what you do and have the hottest restaurant on the west coast, with enough Michelin stars to make Gordon Ramsay's head spin, you've earned the right to your confidence.

When I give an instruction in the kitchen, it's not a suggestion--it's an order. So when a new chef thinks she can do things her way and dares to say so to my face, even her sharp wit and gorgeous pouty lips don't make it okay.

But I have to admit, she's got talent. She's creative in the kitchen and not even that double-breasted chef jacket can hide her perfect body. As I get to know her, I can't help wanting to know everything she thinks. I've never met a more talented chef. And I've never met a sassier and sexier woman in my life.

There's only one way this push and pull can end.

With her in my bed, begging for more.






My thoughts

"5 - if you can't stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen stars!"

I absolutely adored this story!

This book had everything I love in a contemporary romance.

The characters were well developed and well written.

Willow and Cole had amazing chemistry, great bantering and off the charts sex scenes.



They were smart, strong, charismatic, kick-ass characters that were great to read about and to get to know.
They complimented one another perfectly!

I was engaged in the story from the beginning right till the very end.
I really enjoyed the storyline. (I wonder if the author got hungry while researching and writing about these fabulous dishes and wonderful ingredients?)



I highly recommend this book if you're looking for interesting, charismatic characters, great writing, and a wonderful story.



About the Author

JD Hawkins writes erotic romance with modern-classic alpha males and strong, independent women. He currently lives with his wife in Los Angeles, CA. He loves to travel and has lived in many places, including New York City, India and Thailand. When he isn't writing, JD enjoys surfing, training in Mixed Martial Arts, reading and taking naps. He's always loved making up stories, especially ones inspired by real life.

Subscribe to JD's mailing list to get a first look at new work and free stuff:
http://eepurl.com/bkVjMX


I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by the author

[CristiinaReads୨ৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

➳A cocky but beyond irresistible chef, with magic hands that will have you drooling for more...



I will say this, I am impressed with this story, and now I will be honest I was expecting to not like it AT ALL but I gave it a shot and am glad I did because I enjoyed it more than what I thought I would. The angst between Cole and Willow was one that I have not read in such a long time. It was slow for sure which was one thing that trigger me to give it a four, but slow but steady, they both climbed that mountain and made it because it was purely heaven at the peek.

Though their pasts have brought them together at the very end, they are both individuals that have gone through things that one cannot relate to which is something that I enjoyed about in this story- it's uniqueness and creativity that Jax has brought to the tables and further competitors in the book industry.

Overall, I had a blast reading this book. It took me a while but it was worth it at the end of it all because the ride with Cole and Willow is one that you cannot miss and DO NOT WANT to ever miss. This is a must read by J.D. Hawkins and I cannot wait to read more of his books in the future to come!

➳ARC kindly provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ingredients:

5 Cups of pure Deliciousness
5 Tablespoons of Real Characters
5 Teaspoons of Research into the
Restaurant Industry, spot on food
descriptions, and two incredible sexy Chefs!
A pinch of angst and throw in pure
emotions, tenderness, strong character
development, sexy and emotional moments
Mr.Hawkins gives you another 5 star read!
A splash of two of my favorite little moments
in this book...."You do you" and "Truth"
you want to call it that?" "Mm-hmm," I hum
into my glass. "We need a little more
of that in the world ."

Mix together and you have such a delightful
reading experience. One that left me with such
happiness and full as if I just ate the best
meal and drank my favorite tequila.

Cole the best of the best in talent as a chef,
businessman, looks and determination to stay
number one. He is tough but also has such
tender moments in this book.

Willow also, an extremely talented chef with
different views on food, customer care, still
keeping her grounded and heart fulfilled.
She is the whole package, like your favorite
sunset that wraps you in warmth and beauty.

Together they are the perfect blend but
life, relationships and dreams aren't
always perfect.

The supporting characters in this book
the friends,co-workers, family add to the
pages. They add laughter, wisdom and
friendship with unconditional love.
Chloe was me growing up with a three famous
Uncles that were Chefs to this day taught me
that food is love and if it's done right the recipes
live on forever.

The epilogue.....I give it a standing ovation or in the
restaurant world I give it the James Beard Award

[FunUndertheCovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when a confident, cocky chef hires a new cook that gives him a run for his money? Sparks fly and in more than just the kitchen!

OMG! What can I say about this book? Well other than leaving me drooling and so hungry, this has to be the best writing that JD Hawkins has done so far! Oh my goodness, his amazing attention to detail blows my mind every single time. This book is beautifully written. You feel like you are part of this story, living it out with the characters. You feel their emotions so wholeheartedly. Whether it's anger, frustration, sexual chemistry or heartbreak, you feel it in your bones. Did I mention the way he would describe a dish in this book will leave your mouth watering?

This book is absolutely sensational! I loved every word and couldn't put it down!!! This is a MUST READ!!! 6 stars!!!

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Live AMAZON: http://amzn.to/2uaOVPA

4 Delicious Stars <3

Cocky Chef was a sweet,sexy and delicious story.It has a great story line,loveable characters and the perfect amount of angst keeping me in line from the beginning.

I loved the relationship that Willow and Cole has.I adored them and I couldn't get enough of them.There was always a spark and an energy every time they were together.Willow is sassy and she is likes her job.Cole is cocky and arrogant but she is intrigued by Willow.I loved how these two start spending time together.

Overall it was a nice and refreshing story.

 

  

[Maria✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

➦This one hit real close to home, people. I, too, both like the hero and the heroine of this book, very very very much love food.


➦But, unlike the hero and the heroine of this book, I only enjoy the actual eating part, not the cooking. That's not to say I'm not an excellent chef.


➦Jake, buddy, you would me. But you know what? I don't wanna talk about it. Let's talk about this book instead. So this world renown chef hires a new line chef for his awesomesauce restaurant. But when he pretends to be a customer and tastes one of his dishes he realizes one of the ingredients is different. There is going to be a confrontation, people, and you want to be there for it! :p


➦I recommend this book if you're looking for a solid romance read with great banter, hot steam and likable yet very opinionated main characters. When faced with a choice between a career and love relationship, which one is more important? Can they have both?

[Life on Readpeat · Rating 5 out of 5]

* Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot *

I generously received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review...

Cocky Chef by J.D. Hawkins was so freaking amazing that I am literally kicking myself in the a** since it happens to be the first book that I have read from this amazingly talented author. I recently discovered J.D. during a takeover a few months ago and I immediately added all of his books to my TBR list! Unfortunately due to both a busy schedule and a lack of funds I still had yet to read any of them...so...when I saw that he was assembling an ARC team for this release I jumped at the chance and WOW I am so happy that I did!

Okay...let me just start off by saying that this cover is HOT! HOT! HOT! Being the COVER WH*RE that I am, my attention automatically goes to that, but this time it was the blurb that initially drew me in and then when I saw that cover it was hook, line and sinker. I mean who wouldn't be hooked after seeing that sexy man on the cover?!

Cole is certainly what the title labels him as - a COCKY CHEF! How can he be anything but cocky after all the things that he has accomplished in his career - from being a famous tv chef who taught criminals the art of cooking to opening one of the hottest restaurants in all of LA! He's done it all and now he is about to discover how the love of a good woman will change him for the better.

Willow is a little spitfire line cook that speaks her mind, even though it often lands her in trouble. After her restaurant fails back home she decides to try out the LA scene and lands a position at Cole's restaurant - Knife. That first encounter was perhaps my favorite scene of the entire story and their instant chemistry was undeniable.

I freaking loved every moment of their story and couldn't put it down! Hands down one of my favorite book couples of 2017 thus far! There was not a dull second in this entire story and that fight towards the end of the book was PERFECT, but that MAKE-UP scene was EVERYTHING! I didn't think it was possible to fall even more in love with Cole but I DID!

J.D. Hawkins this story was extraordinary and I can't wait to see what you come up with next (as well as going back to read your past releases)!

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was like a Hell’s Kitchen slash Master Chef slash steamy whirlwind romance all smashed together. I loved how detailed the author was with cuisine, cooking styles, and the business end of a restaurant. I’m not sure how he researched these topics, but most of it was spot on. I found that there were many times that I had to ask my friend, who happens to be an Executive Chef, classically trained in the French style, questions for verification purposes and each time my friend came back with “yup” or “sounds about right”. I love when the minor details check out!

Okay, so Cole is the Gordon Ramsay of Los Angeles. Renowned chef, had his own TV show, constantly being hit up with more media opportunities, has dated the who’s who of actresses and models, has the most successful restaurant in LA, and is in the process of taking the Las Vegas crowd by storm. What else could this man possibly want? Then there’s Willow… she was trained by a famous French chef, came out of that experience with a lot of knowledge, experience and determination, and then opened up her own restaurant, which ended up being a catastrophic failure. She’s moved to LA to start fresh and, with the help of her friends, try to make her dreams a reality once again. She’s got no time for anything extra, least of all a relationship. But the explosive chemistry and imminent connection Cole and Willow shared could not be denied.

“When I said I just wanted you to be happy… I meant with me.”

Moment of truth: I wasn’t a huge fan of Willow’s. Here’s why… this woman never knew when to agree to disagree. I respected her intellect, her stubbornness, and her grit, but there was a moment (or five) where I felt like she went too far. Moments when I felt like she was being borderline disrespectful to Cole. And I didn’t like how he just took it. I don’t know ANY men who would let a woman tear apart everything they built and just let it go. Nah dude. He was already successful and his popularity was only gaining momentum. She was a nobody in the world of hospitality. His restaurant was the first place she worked in besides her own failed restaurant. He was her boss. And yet, she was telling him all of the things he was doing wrong and how she would do it. And then browbeating him with it, like she was in the right and he couldn’t possibly know what he was doing. Ummmm… didn’t you see his show? Did you have a show? Did you see his incredibly busy and successful restaurant? Wait, you’re a line cook there? Oh, so then you MUST know that homeboy knows a thing or two about what he’s doing. It’s working, ain’t it??? I'm just saying... he's the one with the successful restaurant that YOU work at. Andddd... I don't see any producers running you down to be on any show.

So, my rant is over lol!! As with all books by this author, I enjoyed it immensely. There’s just something about the way JD Hawkins writes. In Cocky Chef , the characters and their interactions were electric, the plot was solid and entertaining, and the steam and romance were definitely on point. I really liked where this book took me and now I’m jonesing to binge-watch Chopped or something.

Release Date: July 31, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 3.5 out of 5
Type: Standalone

[MELISSA *Mel Reader* · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!



Cole Chambers is an internationally-renowned celebrity chef who owns the hottest restaurant on the west coast. As one of the most famous chefs in the world, he's known as the best. He was on a professional cooking TV show, & now he owns a restaurant in L.A. called Knife & is working on opening another restaurant in Vegas. He's cocky & a perfectionist. He lives in the Hollywood Hills & has it all.



Cole likes things done his way in the kitchen. He's worked hard to get where he is, & when he gives instruction, its to be followed. When a new chef named Willow decides to do things her own way Cole is furious.

Willow is a beautiful woman from Idaho. After her dreams & life plan failed, she was left with nothing. She moved to L.A. & was lucky enough to get a job as a new chef at Knife. Suddenly she makes a mistake & is worried she's going to be fired by her hot new arrogant jerk of a boss.



Willow stands up to Cole & challenges him. He soon figures out she's an extremely talented, creative chef & he respects her opinion. She's sexy & full of attitude, but it only turns him on more. He wants her desperately, but tries to be professional. Soon things are heating up in & out of the kitchen and this couple can't get enough of each other.

I really enjoyed this book & love J.D. Hawkins writing. Cole Chambers was super sexy & this was a fun, flirty read.



-"What I really want is you."

-This woman is absolutely incredible.

-I realize that he's not just my hot boss anymore. No longer just a beautiful man with whom I share some physical connection. Irresistible lust, uncontrollable hungers, and alluring seductions might have led us so far, but now there's more to it. Something meaningful.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so wonderful. It is without a doubt JD's best work to date. And that's saying a lot because I love his books, and Unprofessional was a favorite of mine, as well. But Cocky Chef takes JD's ability to another level. The quality of the writing, the depth of feeling, the word choice and the visuals that are evoked are nothing less than truly amazing.

Our alpha male is Cole Chambers, a former reality TV star chef, turned restauranteur, a hot as hell former bad boy with a stubborn attitude, a huge ego and a life where nothing's off limits. He's busy working hard and playing hard, running Knife, one of L.A.'s hottest and most exclusive restaurants and opening a second location in Vegas. And he thinks he has it made. Until he meets Willow.

Fresh from the failure of her own restaurant in Idaho, she's been hired as the new line chef at Knife. Her career there gets off to a bit of a rocky start when she unintentionally curses out the owner, Cole. But despite the bumpy beginnings, sparks soon fly between Cole and Willow, despite their complete disagreement over food preparation, what a restaurant should be, and their visions of the perfect meal. Cole opens up to Willow like he has to no one else in decades. He tells her of the issues in the past that have led him to his inability to trust, and shares his buried hurts with her. Willow tries to keep emotions at bay, but she knows she's falling for this man, despite his flaws.

But Willow has a secret of her own. And she neglects to share it. Until it's too late. And things are broken, including hearts. And Cole and Willow must then decide what the most crucial thing is for each of them. Are dreams able to be compromised on? Can what was once of utmost importance suddenly become insignificant? Is there a HEA in store for these two?

This book had me laughing, smiling, grimacing and bawling. At one point, I was broken. And then I was put back together. JD's knowledge of the cooking field, his ability to describe not only the ingredients and dishes, but the atmosphere, the kitchen, the role of the staff and the emotions that go along with it all were on point. There were lovely romantic moments and deep, heartfelt conversations. Then tempers flared and melancholy tore both the characters and the reader apart. Absolutely ALL the feels are in this phenomenally well-written book. It is a must read and I would give it more stars if I could.

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed this book for two reasons:
1. The prose
2. The journey of its author.

Lets start with the Prose. I like the idea of a book about food, because... food. I also love books about strong female characters. Its amazing when men can capture women at their womany-ist. Witty, smart, and sexy (this part men seem to nail).
In _Cocky Chef_ We have Willow, who is now in my top 10 fave female characters to date. She isn't insecure, shes strong and sure and knows she's the bomb in the kitchen. Other areas of life, maybe not so much. There was a pivotal point in the book for me where it looked like my girl Willow was going to "princess out:, she didn't though she follows her dreams.
Then there is Cole, alpha male extraordinaire. He's not alpha because of his cockiness or even his skill in and out of the kitchen. Nah, Cole became alpha for me at the end (you'll have to read it to see what I'm talking about). I liked Cole throughout the story but I fell in love with that scene. The selflessness, the support the love. I love how he doesn't do what most alpha males do and deny he loves someone. He does, he knows, he owns that shit. Alpha (insert black girl clap here). Male (and again here).

Now for reason two I love this book is the journey of the author. I enjoyed all of JD's books, but the last three "felt" different. They felt like he cared a little more ( not saying he didn't care about the previous books). The attention to detail, the nuances that come along with being a woman, a celebrity, a chef, a Californian the vivid d were all there and all executed so well. The descriptions of the food was another favorite, I could almost see it. I would salivate; or scrunch my nose up, at the pages. I love that he has written such beautiful strong women characters since the beginning. It makes me believe that JD has some strong leading lady characters in his real life (Good job Mrs. and Mamma H!!). The thing I have to say I love the most about JD's journey in this book specifically, is the angst. I've begged JD for some angst and he delivered. You gave good angst JD!!

I would definitely recommend this book to others. Its so good and has so much heart.

[✰♊ Angie ♊✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, this was a savory and sweet contemporary romance.



**** 4 Seductive Lip Bites ****

Our H, Cole Chambers, is basically Gordon Ramsey (in temperament, not appearance).



He's a super successful genius chef in the culinary world. He's had his own TV show. He has the hottest and most fabulous restaurant in LA. He's cocky and demanding and expects absolutely NOTHING less than perfection.

Willow is our h, and she's a brand new line cook in Cole's hot LA restaurant.



However, Willow is more than she appears on the surface. She's a classically trained chef having sharpened her culinary skills with a world renowned French master chef. Willow has tried and failed at running her own successful restaurant business back home in Idaho. But, that's not about to stop her from trying again. Undeterred by her former failure, she is determined to see her dream of owning her own thriving eatery one day come true.

Of course, sparks fly when this brand new and headstrong line chef collides with her demanding and perfectionist boss.







The two soon realize they mix well together and quickly turn up the heat. But, when Willow must choose between following her unfulfilled dreams and following her heart, the food isn't the only thing at risk of being burned.

I enjoyed this read quite a bit. Now, I am NOT uber versed in the fancy French cuisine Cole serves up in his restaurant. (I know all about baguettes, croissants, Crème brûlée, Éclairs, Macarons, Crêpes, Coq au vin, Ratatouille, and I actually make a mean Croque Monsieur) But, I really appreciated the research and attention to detail the author put into the culinary cuisine described in this book. I love when an author actually researches their writing subject. And I bet it was some delicious research. My mouth watered several times while reading, and not just because of the spice going on between Cole and Willow. I did have issue with the quick resolve between the two MCs after months of zero interaction or discussion of the real problem that came between them. It was just a sudden fix at the end to make that HEA happen. Overall, a solid read.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chefs can be so pretentious and chefy and so up their own backsides with their truffles and effervescent jam. Cole Chambers is just that, like Gordon Ramsay but a whole lot more sexy. Have you seen the cover, I licked it? Cole thinks high end dining, is small portions on big plates sold at a high price with a soupçon of saucy sauce in perfect formation.

Along comes Willow with her fresh food ideas and dirty burgers. I went out for lunch today with my work buddies and the most popular thing on the menu was actually called a Dirty Burger. Whilst I ate my mac and cheese burger with twice cooked chips I chuckled at the burger connection. Actually, no dirty burger for me - longtime vegetarian, but then again a mac and cheese burger could be considered dirty. Right?

I loved the blooming relationship between Cole and Willow and the way JD wove foody vocabulary through the book. Talking of bloom, I was so inspired by Cocky Chef that I baked bread on Sunday - a bloomer. It was a thing of beauty and I was oh so chefy and pretentious massaging flour into the uncooked loaf so as not to damage the rise. I put a tray of water below it in the oven to create a steamy environment for a firm bake with a good crust. I'm thinking of applying for a job at Knife!

I'd give Cole a Michelin star, but I'd give Willow 2, her menu ideas are way better. Yummy, salivating. I was choked and emotional at the ending and now I'm hungry.

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cocky Chef by JD Hawkins
Actual rating: 2 stars

The good:
- I loved that our heroine, Willow, knows her shit with cooking, isn't afraid to disagree with Cole, and is ambitious.
- Reading about the environment of a professional kitchen was interesting, I've never read a book centering on a restaurant before.

The bad:
- The hero is a grade-A selfish prick for 85% of the book. He clearly likes having power over Willow and even takes credit for one of her recipes.
- He sees Willow's leaving his restaurant in order to open up her own restaurant as somehow "betraying" him, and straight up admits that he wants it to fail.
- It isn't until the VERY END that he realizes he's being selfish and wants her to be happy (took him long enough), and his groveling is half-assed at best.
- You have to sign up for the author's mailing list to get the epilogue. I HATE when authors do this. If I pay for the damn book, I expect to get the whole thing.
- Why is the hero eating his shirt in the cover? He's a chef. He knows how to make food.

Safety Stats:

Ages: None were mentioned that I could tell.

Cheating: None.

OM/OW: Before he meets Willow, Cole is making eyes at another woman across the restaurant and clearly intends to take her home. It's unclear whether or not he goes through with this after meeting the heroine.

Separation: The couple briefly breaks up because Cole is a self-centered asshole.

Triggers: None.

HEA? Only if you sign up for the goddamn mailing list. Otherwise it's a HFN.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun read! I loved that Willow comes from a small town in Idaho to LA and was a strong female lead. I like that she stood up for what she wanted, but was still soft and caring. Cole who is the owner of Knife and celebrity chef where Willow works has a past and works hard to not let people get too close. The chemistry between Cole and Willow was electric. This book was hard to put down. And instead of a playlist at the end of the book, I think there should be a recipe book. Food and love is a passionate combination.

[christine l. sturgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up and did not put it down untill I was finished. I loved everything about this book. A few things really stood out for me. I loved the concept of world renowned chef butting heads with a head strong, relatively new but extremely talented chef. Both Cole and Willow challenge each other and bring out the best in each other. I also loved how this book sucks you into the story line. Cocky Chef definitely delivers a wide range of emotions through out the book. Cole is cocky yet so sweet. I love Willows pasion for food and willingness to stand up for what she believes. Their interactions pertaining to food was amusing and nerve wracking. Many times throughout the book i wanted to look away but couldn't  and I kept yelling at them! I had to remind myself it was just a book! A must read book that will engage you in every possible way and leave you wanting more in the very best way.

[Thia Finn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cocky Chef is a fresh new contemporary romance that offers a look into the culinary world. Hawkins does a wonderful job creating a believable story line as readers are offered a peak into the private lives of Willow and Cole.
The beautiful language Hawkins chooses to depict the behind the scenes world of the restauranteurs leaves readers wanting more of the food, more elegant French dishes, and definitely more explosive bedroom scenes.
If you've never read a JD Hawkins' novel, now is the time to get cooking with his best work to date, Cocky Chef.

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ★'s

I was wanting a bit of cocky-ness and what better book to read than one that actually had it in the title. Add into it that it's written by J.D. Hawkins and winner winner, chicken dinner - Chef-style of course! ;)

The book starts off with a back story on Willow and how she became a Chef and how right out of culinary school, she opened up her own restaurant only to have it fail. Now, she's in L.A. with the help of a friend and trying to pay off her debt.

She starts working at Knife and that's where she meets Cole...and meets him rather epically if I do say so. Let me just say that Cole is definitely cocky but a bit (or a lot) of an ass as well. And he likes that Willow doesn't let him get away with it. Plus, I think he made up for it ~a little~ by having such great dates!



One thing leads to another and there's a whole lotta steam in the kitchen. I loved that Cole was so smitten. But he has some serious trust issues and this leads to some huge drama.

Because Willow is not in L.A. to just work at Knife...she has dreams of her own that Cole never even considered. I love that she stuck up for herself.

Thankfully, the drama opened Cole's eyes and he was able to be a better man because of it.

There is no epilogue, however, if you sign up for J.D. Hawkins' newsletter, he'll send you one (definitely worth it). Here's the link:

http://facebook.us14.list-manage.com/...

[Jae Mod · Rating 5 out of 5]

** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **

J D Hawkins’ Cocky Chef pits an arrogant, perfectionist against a laid back country girl. Told from both characters POV, you get to experience both sides of every argument. Don’t worry, they eventually get their HEA.

Cole Chambers, chef and owner of Knife, the top restaurant in L.A. is well known for his temper and exacting specifications to his recipes. The smallest mistake will cost you your career. So when he wants to enjoy his meal and the ingredients are off, you can bet that someone will pay. He isn’t prepared for his new chef’s passion or attitude toward his food.

Willow moves to L.A. for a new start after her restaurant failed back in her home state of Idaho. She’s been at Knife for a week when she makes a mistake that changes everything. After a shouting match in the dining room with the owner over what type of thyme should have been used, Willow has resigned herself to a fate as a failure. Cole and his Gordon Ramsey like arrogance have other plans for her however.

Cole is intrigued by Willow and her principles. Willow thinks he is too pretentious. They think completely different in regards to what customers want, but they are after the same goal: to serve a meal that keeps the customers coming back. Cole offers her a challenge, prove that taste and fulfillment will sell better or equally as well as his masterpieces. Neither expects where that challenge leads them or the potential for disaster it brings.

I wanted to hate Cole right off the bat. Willow had it right when she says he’s a special kind of a******! As Willow got to know him though, so did I and let’s just say sometimes people are the way they are for a reason. I love that I was able to relate to the cocky SOB of the story, even when he was in the wrong. Hunger can be for so many things; love, friendship, food, and all of these are thrown in to make a fantastic and relatable story. I will never look at a burger the same again! Totally worth 5 of Cole’s Michelin stars.

[Lisa Menor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Cole Chambers owns Knife the biggest restaurant in LA. He's had a rough week and heads to Knife to blow off some steam and that's when he locks horns with his recently hired chef Willow. Willow has just been taken to task and is prepared to face the consequences, but Cole has other plans for her. Cole finds himself making excuses just to spend more time with Willow. Not a wise thing for an employer to do. Cole is living his dream. He's got success, money and women. Cole is a control freak, an egotistical, gorgeous control freak who always gets what he wants. That's what makes him so successful. Willow is a sassy, no nonsense, stubborn woman who doesn't put up with his rants or demands. She's an amazing chef in her own right. She's not like any other woman he's known...and he's known a lot. Cole is determined to have her. Things are moving fast between them. Maybe too fast. But is it possible Willow's dreams for her future don't include Cole?
AWESOME READ ! WELL WRITTEN, ORIGINAL STORYLINE WITH COMPLEX CHARACTERS !  
This is not just some book about a skirt chasing chef. This book has substance and it kept you engrossed in the plot. COLE AND WILLOW SHARED INTENSE CHEMISTRY THAT TURNED INTO RAW, UNRESTRAINED PASSION ! ! !  A DEFINITE MUST READ !

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



Cocky Chef is a delicious, sizzling, and tempting romance that will satisfy the hunger of romance readers as J.D. Hawkins serves up a love story that was a riot of entertainment as a cocky chef and a newly hired line cook world’s collide. Two different personalities. One kitchen. And sexual tension that has reached it’s boiling point. Yup, you guessed it...Cole Chambers will discover that the only thing he might want to be tasting and savoring is the new hire, Willow.

“This time the wine doesn’t taste like wine, it tastes like her lips again, like that delicate, sensitive tongue against mine. A taste worth any price you’d put on it, worth searching half the world for. ”



JD Hawkins did a marvelous job in bringing forth a story that reminded me of a mixture of Food Network meets Bravo reality TV meets romance. As Hawkins perfectly blended the right amount of banter, passion, steam, and angst, he gave readers a taste of a delicious and scrumptious romance that will have us begging for a second serving of Cole Chambers!!!! With Hawkins' fresh writing and bold characters, this love connection brewing between Cole and Willow was savory, rich, and spicy!!! A must read for any fans that enjoys a romance between boss and employee!!!! So are you ready to take a bite into this delectable treat?

J.D. Hawkins

[Bookish Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.

This is my favorite yet of JD Hawkins' books!! It was such an adrenaline rush to read about the charged chemistry between Cole and Willow. So much passion, for their craft, their skill, each other. I felt like I was holding my breath through most of the book. Don't worry, I'm still breathing.

I don't think I've read any books with this type of boss/employee storyline. In a restaurant. Where timing is everything and you have to get things just right. Where just the environment naturally creates this buzz of electricity. So it just makes sense that the meet-cute would be just as wired. It's almost a moment of enemies to lovers.

I love the ambition and raw passion that Cole and Willow have for their profession. Food can truly be an aphrodisiac and these two prove that to the letter. I was literally on the edge of my seat, waiting with baited breath, to see how the story's conflict would resolve itself. I mean, you see it coming from a mile away because of the build up (not saying it's predictable, I'm pointing out that the Cole reacts exactly how you would expect because of what we know about him), but still, it leaves you restless. Wondering.

Something I love about Cocky Chef is that there is so much to this story besides the sex, though that's pretty hot too. Because they both have such a love affair with food and the art of preparation, coming together, and "coming" together, is like a masterpiece, a dish served scalding hot, where simmering below the service is their literal love affair.

I really loved the plot and its twists and turns, though I'm not much of a foodie so Cole's pretentious menu items were above my head. But that's all a part of who he is. His prestige and celebrity status are world-renowned so having someone like Willow who challenges everything he's ever known about cooking take him down a few notches is refreshing.

Cole and Willow pair well together.

5 Michelin stars ;)

[Melanie (mells_view) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Food is the way to my heart :)

Cole is a big time LA chef who is known as a perfectionist and a bit of a control freak. He once had his own cooking show, but now he's moved more into the business side of the food world. Opening restaurants opposed to cooking.

Willow is a small town girl who has trained to be an amazing chef. She started her own business in her small town and unfortunately it didn't work out. Now she's in LA to get a good job so she can pay off her loans from her restaurant. She starts working at Cole's restaurant, Knife, and gets a bit more than she's bargained for.

So basically this is a famous chef, and a fresh off of failure chef falling in love. I thought it was really good, and I enjoyed Cole and Willows relationship dynamic and banter. They got hot and heavy, but you could tell they were building more than just their lusty relationship! Of course there is a bit of chef angst, and it isn't really too over the top. I enjoyed it, so that's all I can say!

If you like quick contemporary romances, with a bit of sassy banter then you should definitely check it cocky chef!

[Stephanie Erickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town girl Willow moves to LA to pick up the pieces of her failed restaurant in Idaho. She starts working for Michelin star chef Cole Chambers.

He has a reputation for being an unforgiving hard ass.

Cole Chambers comes to his restaurant one night to have dinner. He starts his meal and after a bite he's yelling for the chef who cooked his potatoes. When Willow is brought from the kitchen the spit fire doesn't back down. And Cole is intrigued.

When they start seeing each other Willow is torn between having her dream of opening her own restaurant or Cole.

The heat turns up in the kitchen and JD Hawkins kept me salivating for more.

[Kiki]

There is no second chance for first impression!
And the first impression I get is THAT cover!
A grown ass man chewing on his shirt!
Get me the fuck outta here 🤦‍♀️

[Sam Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.D. Hawkins just made Chef Romance a thing. Cocky Chef had my stomach in knots and my heart going berserk! He has done it again. He creates characters that come to life. It's like I was right there in the kitchen with Cole and Willow. This book is so hot I just couldn't put it down and it left me hungry for more.

I have always had a thing for cooking shows and competitions, but I have never really read any romance books about a chef. I love that Cole and Willow know their way in and out of a kitchen. Their chemistry is sizzling. I appreciate that Hawkins chose to write in dual perspective. It is my fave because we get to be inside both Cole and Willows thoughts and see their internal struggles. This 5 star review is for The Sweet Spot Sisterhood. Bon a petit!

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Cocky Chef. There is no other way to put it ; I simply loved the book as a whole. Of course the cover got my attention but I'm always in when J.D. Hawkins writes a book. I know I'll have something fun, easy-going, sweet and that I'm going to spend a good time. Well once again mission accomplished.
While certain things were missing, I just come to the conclusion that I didn't care because I was all the way in. I was enthralled by Cole & Willow, by their passion for their work, by their banter and by the way they fall for each other.

Cole is definitely a cocky chef with his own ideas and nobody to tell him otherwise. With Willow he finds someone who challenge him. No fear of what he might think, she is honest and is his opposite is so many ways. Throughout the read, you quickly see they complete each other.

All things related to the kitchen and what happens in it has me completed hooked. I absolutely captivated when both characters were talking about dishes and how to improve them. I couldn't get enough of them sharing their knowledge. It was like I was in a real TV show: The best kind!!

If you are looking for a fast delightful read, Cocky Chef is definitely the book you need.

~ I read voluntary a copy of this book provided by the author ~

[Tanaka K · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I got to praise how yummy this cover. Omg, it is just simply mouth watering and took my breath taking. How delicious is this body. Damn, I could not stop staring at it. J.D. Hawkins nailed this cover. But then again his covers are always on point.

When I read the blurb of this story, I thought to myself there is a book I would totally relate to. Here is a cool, fresh and easy going book that make me melt and just fall in love in with. I did fall in love with this gorgeous. I felt all kinds of butterflies on my stomach because it was such a charming book that I definitely craved. There was just something so special about this book that everything inside of me just clicked. To think this is my first book by J.D. Hawkins. Seriously, where have I been? I feel like I need some kind of discipline for that because this author is just amazing. Cocky Chef is a fun and interesting book that had me craving for more.

Cocky Chef was such a splendid summer read for me. It was a perfect and an indulgent book that seduced my thoughts and feelings. I am not fan of rom coms but Cocky Chef was just spectacular in my eyes. Drool worthy. Alluring. Sexy. Sassy. Cocky Chef was a breath of fresh air to my soul that pulled me in and lit a fire in my heart. So engaging. So passionate. Cocky Chef gave me a vibrant outlook into the culinary world. This made me think of the days that I worked in a professional kitchen. It was so vivid and definitely reminisce about my life in the culinary world. It felt so good. I loved every moment of this book. It was fiery. It dazzled me. And it also captured me so deeply. It was light, emotional and carefully laid out that I felt the story. J.D. Hawkins constructed a story so artistic bringing out quality and depth. It was beyond amazing. This is a sign of a skilled writer.

Cole and Willow are such a dynamic couple with banter, sass and amazing chemistry. Wow, these two really brought an addictive energy that made me read and crave this book. There brought enough spark to electrify the story even more. I was in awe and their relationship was just beautiful. Willow is a strong chef with so much youthfulness in her. She was a spitfire and tenacious in her career and her life. I loved that she gave such soul and grace that made me love her even more. Cole is an arrogant, cocky and powerhouse of a chef. He was rigid and controlled but there was something about him that made me swoon and purr. Man, he made me tingle and sigh dreamily. I need a man like Cole. I just loved Cole and Willow. Definitely one of my favourite couples.

Cocky Chef was everything. This book was just so radiant and gorgeous. I will definitely bw reading more books by J.D. Hawkins.

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

[Milva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know where to begin so I start with the rating; 5+ stars.
Of course you want to know why.

First of all..food is everything and one of my favourite things I love. I should warn you before you start to read...Make sure you have a full belly or have some snacks. You're going to need it with all the mouthwatering recipes. You should drink some Asti Spumante too. You know for the experience.

Cole is the chef, the owner of Knife. A 3 star Michelin restaurant. So you know it's a big deal. What I loved about Cole was that he was confident and sure about himself. Not the annoying stereotype Alpha male in most books. You just got to love him. You will! That's a promise!

Willow! I have a girl crush! She knows what she wants and speak up. Even if it would get her in trouble. Again not the stereotype sassy and annoying girl, but a confident woman.

And Chloë, she is adorable!
Curious? You have to read it...seriously.

About the author JD Hawkins. The way the story develops and draws you in. The characters seem like people you actually know. Very genuine. The way the dishes are described...you can almost taste it through the pages.
Even though he writes in a different genre, I count him as one of my favourite authors like Stephen King and J.K. Rowling.

5+ and more stars.

[Jennifer McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for my honest review.

This book was another great read from JD!!! I completely loved Cole and Willow's story. Cole is one cocky, sexy LA chef. Willow is a kick a$$ heroine. I loved their connection. Completely loved this story!!