What do you think?
Rate this book
Reality of Love #1
The Missing Ingredient
Who knew a cooking show could get so messy?
Elle Fierro
All I have to do is appear as a judge on this cooking show in Hollywood and my restaurant will open to rave reviews. Pretty much my lifelong dream. What I absolutely shouldn’t do is sleep with one of the contestants and ruin everything I’ve worked so hard for. But he gives good hugs, makes me laugh, fills out a simple T-shirt like nobody’s business, and is sweeter than the maple syrup he dripped all over my naked body last night…
Austin Cox
I may have been drunk when I applied to be on that reality cooking show, which is why it’s hard to believe I’m here. What’s even harder to believe is that Elle, with her painted red lips and fiery disposition, is in my bed and making me forget I need to win this damn show to get my little sister out of the foster care system.
When Elle throws me under the bus to realize her dream, will our love burn out or will we find the missing ingredient to happiness?
The Missing Ingredient is a steamy, laugh out loud RomCom intended to be read as a standalone in the Reality of Love series. If you love an opposite's attract romance unfolding on a Hollywood set during a reality cooking show, then this is the book for you! Warning: prepare for food fights.
Elle Fierro
All I have to do is appear as a judge on this cooking show in Hollywood and my restaurant will open to rave reviews. Pretty much my lifelong dream. What I absolutely shouldn’t do is sleep with one of the contestants and ruin everything I’ve worked so hard for. But he gives good hugs, makes me laugh, fills out a simple T-shirt like nobody’s business, and is sweeter than the maple syrup he dripped all over my naked body last night…
Austin Cox
I may have been drunk when I applied to be on that reality cooking show, which is why it’s hard to believe I’m here. What’s even harder to believe is that Elle, with her painted red lips and fiery disposition, is in my bed and making me forget I need to win this damn show to get my little sister out of the foster care system.
When Elle throws me under the bus to realize her dream, will our love burn out or will we find the missing ingredient to happiness?
The Missing Ingredient is a steamy, laugh out loud RomCom intended to be read as a standalone in the Reality of Love series. If you love an opposite's attract romance unfolding on a Hollywood set during a reality cooking show, then this is the book for you! Warning: prepare for food fights.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2019
259 people are currently reading
597 people want to read
About the author
Marika Ray
87 books1,425 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
Hellman Brothers Series
Sisters From Hell Series
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
February 12, 2019
What a lovely surprise this book turned out to be! The Missing Ingredient was both humorous and steamy, and I enjoyed it thoroughly! In fact, I couldn’t put it down.
Elle was fierce, focused, and tough as nails; I admired her, despite how different she is from me. Austin was friendly and easy going; I adored him immediately. Opposites attract, and for Austin and Elle that attraction was explosive!
The writing was fun and lighthearted, with just a touch of drama. I especially appreciated the Spanish phrases interspersed throughout the story, which gave it an authentic feel. The plot was interesting and unique; I haven’t read anything like it. I will never look at pancakes or maple syrup the same!
This was my first book by Marika Ray and is also the first book in the Reality of Love series. I’m pleased that I took a chance on a new to me author and can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Elle was fierce, focused, and tough as nails; I admired her, despite how different she is from me. Austin was friendly and easy going; I adored him immediately. Opposites attract, and for Austin and Elle that attraction was explosive!
The writing was fun and lighthearted, with just a touch of drama. I especially appreciated the Spanish phrases interspersed throughout the story, which gave it an authentic feel. The plot was interesting and unique; I haven’t read anything like it. I will never look at pancakes or maple syrup the same!
This was my first book by Marika Ray and is also the first book in the Reality of Love series. I’m pleased that I took a chance on a new to me author and can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
November 3, 2019
Just realised I never reviewed this back when I read it. Bad girl!!
I loved Elle and Austin's story. Older woman, younger man is often a trope that's done poorly. Not here. There's delicious chemistry, actual emotions and beautifully witty dialogue.
Definitely recommend.
I loved Elle and Austin's story. Older woman, younger man is often a trope that's done poorly. Not here. There's delicious chemistry, actual emotions and beautifully witty dialogue.
Definitely recommend.
March 7, 2019
Advice to readers – don’t read this book while hungry – because it cooks up a plethora of good food, a delicious slow burn and a male character that is so yummy and good enough to eat!
The Missing Ingredient is a dual-POV book in Marika’s new Reality of Love series. I loved getting what seemed the insider scoop on the inner-workings of reality TV through the eyes of celebrity chef and judge, Elle, and her hot young and fun contestant, Austin.
Sweet and lovable Austin is the perfect ingredient for the seriously over-worked and uptight Elle.
You’ll love this sweet, sexy and lighthearted story!
The Missing Ingredient is a dual-POV book in Marika’s new Reality of Love series. I loved getting what seemed the insider scoop on the inner-workings of reality TV through the eyes of celebrity chef and judge, Elle, and her hot young and fun contestant, Austin.
Sweet and lovable Austin is the perfect ingredient for the seriously over-worked and uptight Elle.
You’ll love this sweet, sexy and lighthearted story!
August 23, 2019
This was my buddy read and I'm so glad my buddy picked this one. It was my first by Ray but won't be my last.
Elle is a chef with her sights set high. She's super serious and likes to instill fear rather than love. Austin is a easy going, new face chef and they are both on the same reality TV cooking show. Elle is a judge and Austin is a chef. There's an instant attraction but do they act on it?
Elle- is hardcore serious. She's determined to keep her name and reputation pristine especially while opening her new restaurant. The TV show is the perfect way to help the success of her business. Then Austin shows up and makes her laugh, teaches her to hug and he might even show her there's more to the world than work.
Austins- is going through a hard time. He just lost his mother and his sister is in foster care until her can get the money the state thinks is necessary to care for her. The TV show is exactly what he needs to get him a job so he can get his sister back but when he meets Elle things get a little fuzzy.
Elle is a chef with her sights set high. She's super serious and likes to instill fear rather than love. Austin is a easy going, new face chef and they are both on the same reality TV cooking show. Elle is a judge and Austin is a chef. There's an instant attraction but do they act on it?
Elle- is hardcore serious. She's determined to keep her name and reputation pristine especially while opening her new restaurant. The TV show is the perfect way to help the success of her business. Then Austin shows up and makes her laugh, teaches her to hug and he might even show her there's more to the world than work.
Austins- is going through a hard time. He just lost his mother and his sister is in foster care until her can get the money the state thinks is necessary to care for her. The TV show is exactly what he needs to get him a job so he can get his sister back but when he meets Elle things get a little fuzzy.
June 10, 2019
Review to come.
February 28, 2019
Attention! You must pick up The Missing Ingredient, STAT, if you love:
An unassuming and underdog hero with grace, humor, and an incredibly winning personality. Oh, and he’s sexy as all get out.
A FIERCE, driven, take-no-prisoners heroine who can’t help but have a few chinks in her armor.
DELICIOUS settings and genuine characters.
And a plot that makes you root for them all the way.
What a fun read! I had a smile on my face while reading it, and while I raced to the end, I couldn’t help but want to savor it again and again. I loved it. The Missing Ingredient is a true charmer.
An unassuming and underdog hero with grace, humor, and an incredibly winning personality. Oh, and he’s sexy as all get out.
A FIERCE, driven, take-no-prisoners heroine who can’t help but have a few chinks in her armor.
DELICIOUS settings and genuine characters.
And a plot that makes you root for them all the way.
What a fun read! I had a smile on my face while reading it, and while I raced to the end, I couldn’t help but want to savor it again and again. I loved it. The Missing Ingredient is a true charmer.
March 3, 2019
Younger man older woman for the win!!! This book has it all. The perfect blend of humor, heat and conflict. Austin is the perfect book boyfriend as he is charming, hilarious and down right sexy. Dimples, tattoos, and the hair. Elle is the bossy chef who is so uptight she needs someone to break down all the walls and loosen her up. These two are perfect and their chemistry is scorching hot. There may even be a little food adventures in this, some quite sticky situations with some syrup that makes for a very memorable scene. I loved this extremely hot book from Marika! A must read in my eyes.
March 20, 2019
Elle is a feisty female who ends up as a judge on a reality show. Austin is a sexy hunk and contestant on the show. This story is told as a dual POV, and is a slow burn romance. This is a well written flawless story, which is humorous, witty, fun, with a tad bit of drama, which all leads to an all round entertaining and light-hearted read. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and cannot wait to read more from this talented author, whose work I highly recommend for all readers.
June 2, 2022
A good start to this series
As a fan of this author, I am glad to start this new (to me) series.
I liked the basis for this story, and the May-November situation. My favorite part was Austin's personality and his motivation for trying to be better!
This series doesn't have the same characters as any other, but the style and readability is the same easy-to-love, page turning one that I enjoy. You can start here, (if you aren't already familiar with the wonderful works of this author), and start your experience.
I recommend this author, book and series.
As a fan of this author, I am glad to start this new (to me) series.
I liked the basis for this story, and the May-November situation. My favorite part was Austin's personality and his motivation for trying to be better!
This series doesn't have the same characters as any other, but the style and readability is the same easy-to-love, page turning one that I enjoy. You can start here, (if you aren't already familiar with the wonderful works of this author), and start your experience.
I recommend this author, book and series.
May 18, 2020
So this is my first book by this author. I love Austin and Elle. Even if I wanted to smack Elle at times lol. Austin is so incredible even at the age of 22 he is more responsible than many 40 year olds. The love he has for his sister is so sweet...
February 5, 2019
I haven’t read that many older woman/younger guy tropes so I don’t have that much of a comparison to go on but if they’re anything like this I think I need to explore it more often. Elle takes a new gig as a chef judge for a new cooking show thinking of it as a great boost for her career. She’s 32 confident, career driven and intimidating (really what famous chef isn’t?) and she’s in desperate need of a hug. Now comes along one of the show contestants who’s 22 lighthearted, family driven, with a boy-next-door vibe of easy going who happens to be a hugger with a huge heart. I was really into their growing relationship and didn’t feel like there was a power imbalance despite Elle being the judge of the show and a very popular chef in New York and Austin being a random bartender with a passion for cooking from Northern California. I guess what I love about their relationship is while they came from different backgrounds and their goals being different things they were somehow a perfect match. She gave him the confidence he needed to take himself more serious and really take charge of his cooking career and he was able to soften her up around the edges and show her the only thing missing in her life. Her missing ingredient you might say. *wink wink* I think the character growth was well paced while they stayed true to what made them wonderfully individual from page one. Just the fact that Austin was trying so hard for his sister had me rooting for him but even without that he was just an all around great guy for Elle. And I loved the whole Spanish queen bee vibe Elle had going for her but mostly I really enjoyed who they became by the end of the book. And the sexy times were of course steamy and fun. 5/5 stars Loved it from start to finish.
March 9, 2019
Take one hot beautiful chef with fire in both her demeanor and recipes and mix it with an adorable, handsome, funny, up and coming chef and you get a recipe for a really good story.
This is the first book in a new series by this author and I loved it. It’s cute, quirky, hot and will make you salivate in more ways than one. I wouldn’t say there’s a lot of drama in this book. It’s more life lessons. It makes you stop and think what’s really important to you and is it actually really important to you? It’s a true example of the phrase,”Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans”. You’re going along thinking one thing and and the universe decides to make you question your course of action...BAM...roadblock. What road do you travel?
Elle is fierce, fiery,no nonsense, nonstop, bulldoze her way into what she wants and she knows what she wants, or so she thinks.
Austin is funny, built, swoony in an adorable way and responsible. He could charm the pants right off you and make you laugh while doing it. He’s everything every girl could want. Except there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Together this makes for an interesting and unique combination of ingredients. I don’t do spoilers so you have to read the blurb for more. Better yet, read the book!
I also loved the secondary characters. I wouldn’t mind following up with them in future stories.
I read this book in one sitting for two reasons; it’s an easy read and I didn't want to put it down. So if you like spicy, hot with a touch of sweet you should like this book. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next. For now I’ll just say buen provecho (good eating ) up this book. It’s delicious!
This is the first book in a new series by this author and I loved it. It’s cute, quirky, hot and will make you salivate in more ways than one. I wouldn’t say there’s a lot of drama in this book. It’s more life lessons. It makes you stop and think what’s really important to you and is it actually really important to you? It’s a true example of the phrase,”Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans”. You’re going along thinking one thing and and the universe decides to make you question your course of action...BAM...roadblock. What road do you travel?
Elle is fierce, fiery,no nonsense, nonstop, bulldoze her way into what she wants and she knows what she wants, or so she thinks.
Austin is funny, built, swoony in an adorable way and responsible. He could charm the pants right off you and make you laugh while doing it. He’s everything every girl could want. Except there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Together this makes for an interesting and unique combination of ingredients. I don’t do spoilers so you have to read the blurb for more. Better yet, read the book!
I also loved the secondary characters. I wouldn’t mind following up with them in future stories.
I read this book in one sitting for two reasons; it’s an easy read and I didn't want to put it down. So if you like spicy, hot with a touch of sweet you should like this book. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next. For now I’ll just say buen provecho (good eating ) up this book. It’s delicious!
March 6, 2019
Marika Ray has written another winner with the first book in her new Reality of Love Series, “The Missing Ingredient.” I loved everything about this book from the spirited and sexy chef, to the carefree but serious, bartender who meet on a reality cooking show. Elle is colorful, hard working and bossy and she definitely needs to slow down and enjoy life. Austin is laid back, funny and confident and someone who always puts his family first.
Elle was thrilled about her job as a judge on the cooking show, because the exposure was just what she needed to help launch her new restaurant. She was looking forward to the warm California weather and mentoring future chefs. Elle was used to working seven days a week and had very little time for a social life, and rarely dated. Most men were jealous of her success and intimidated by her beauty and hot-tempered personality. She didn’t think she would ever meet a man who could be her equal at work and in love. But she was in for a big surprise!!
Austin’s family is the most important part of his life and he would do anything for his sister. He is a creative genius in the kitchen but felt that he was in way over his head when it came to competing on the show. He was a self taught cook who enjoyed cooking for his friends but was determined to do his best during the competition. When he found out who the judges were his gaze landed on the sexy and beguiling face of Elle, who was a complete knockout and definitely out of his league. What could they possibly have in common besides their love of cooking? Some say that Hollywood is where dreams are made, so perhaps Elle and Austin can create a recipe for love.
Elle was thrilled about her job as a judge on the cooking show, because the exposure was just what she needed to help launch her new restaurant. She was looking forward to the warm California weather and mentoring future chefs. Elle was used to working seven days a week and had very little time for a social life, and rarely dated. Most men were jealous of her success and intimidated by her beauty and hot-tempered personality. She didn’t think she would ever meet a man who could be her equal at work and in love. But she was in for a big surprise!!
Austin’s family is the most important part of his life and he would do anything for his sister. He is a creative genius in the kitchen but felt that he was in way over his head when it came to competing on the show. He was a self taught cook who enjoyed cooking for his friends but was determined to do his best during the competition. When he found out who the judges were his gaze landed on the sexy and beguiling face of Elle, who was a complete knockout and definitely out of his league. What could they possibly have in common besides their love of cooking? Some say that Hollywood is where dreams are made, so perhaps Elle and Austin can create a recipe for love.
March 19, 2019
The Missing Ingredient by Marika Kay
“Always be memorable.” – Elle Fierro
Elle Fierro, “El Jefe”, is a 32-year-old head chef of a 3-star restaurant. Her driving ambition is to open and operate her own restaurant. Becoming one of the celebrity judges on a new cooking show “Taste Test” is the perfect platform to get name recognition to give her new restaurant a major boost. Yes, it means being away from New York for several weeks to do the show, but if all goes well, it will give her loads of free publicity. And things WERE going well, at least, until Austin Cox…
“I was intrigued by her before. Now I was haunted.”- Austin Cox
Growing up in a hardscrabble town, losing his mother to cancer and his little sister to foster care, Austin is desperate to win the competition on “Taste Test” so he can have financial security and establish guardianship for his little sister. Determined to win the competition, Austin quite literally “bumps” into Elle, and is immediately under her spell. Drawn to her like no other, Austin struggles to maintain his distance…
Elle is at first horrified, then intrigued by Austin, a man-child YEARS younger than herself, but always free with his hugs and smiles. Elle finds herself drawn to Austin, yet knows no impropriety can happen between them, as she MUST be impartial to all the contestants.
Tensions swirl on the set, as each fights the inevitable….
Loved.every.word! This is a feel-good romance, with plot twists, disappointments and surprises. Marika Ray delivers a winner once again!
“Always be memorable.” – Elle Fierro
Elle Fierro, “El Jefe”, is a 32-year-old head chef of a 3-star restaurant. Her driving ambition is to open and operate her own restaurant. Becoming one of the celebrity judges on a new cooking show “Taste Test” is the perfect platform to get name recognition to give her new restaurant a major boost. Yes, it means being away from New York for several weeks to do the show, but if all goes well, it will give her loads of free publicity. And things WERE going well, at least, until Austin Cox…
“I was intrigued by her before. Now I was haunted.”- Austin Cox
Growing up in a hardscrabble town, losing his mother to cancer and his little sister to foster care, Austin is desperate to win the competition on “Taste Test” so he can have financial security and establish guardianship for his little sister. Determined to win the competition, Austin quite literally “bumps” into Elle, and is immediately under her spell. Drawn to her like no other, Austin struggles to maintain his distance…
Elle is at first horrified, then intrigued by Austin, a man-child YEARS younger than herself, but always free with his hugs and smiles. Elle finds herself drawn to Austin, yet knows no impropriety can happen between them, as she MUST be impartial to all the contestants.
Tensions swirl on the set, as each fights the inevitable….
Loved.every.word! This is a feel-good romance, with plot twists, disappointments and surprises. Marika Ray delivers a winner once again!
March 11, 2019
Grab your aprons and hold on to your chef hats folks Marika Ray has brought all our foodie dreams to life with The Missing Ingredient! As a person who hates most reality TV but also has a serious obsession with cooking contests and a certain angry chef I was bouncing off the walls in excitement when I read the blurb and found out one of my favorite one click Authors was combining everything I loved into one magnificent read. I was even more thrilled when I picked it up, started reading and discovered a true Boss Lady existed with Elle.
Marika’s writing is always filled with strong women, but Elle is being dubbed the official Boss Lady of them all. This tough, take no prisoners, independent, smart and wickedly talented chef seems to have the world at her fingertips. But until she meets Austin on the set of the cooking competition she’s a judge for she has no idea of the warmth that’s been missing from her perfectly ordered life. Austin is vastly different from Elle. This giant sweetheart is ever the optimist bringing smiles and hugs to the world every where he goes even as he struggles himself.
While these two might seem like total opposites there’s one thing they both have in spades and that is passion. The chemistry between them is magnetic pulling you in and keeping you hooked to every page while the sparks that fly are so hot they’re sure to have you needing a fan.
Marika’s writing is always filled with strong women, but Elle is being dubbed the official Boss Lady of them all. This tough, take no prisoners, independent, smart and wickedly talented chef seems to have the world at her fingertips. But until she meets Austin on the set of the cooking competition she’s a judge for she has no idea of the warmth that’s been missing from her perfectly ordered life. Austin is vastly different from Elle. This giant sweetheart is ever the optimist bringing smiles and hugs to the world every where he goes even as he struggles himself.
While these two might seem like total opposites there’s one thing they both have in spades and that is passion. The chemistry between them is magnetic pulling you in and keeping you hooked to every page while the sparks that fly are so hot they’re sure to have you needing a fan.
![Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1572307419i%2F47676940._UY200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 18, 2019
This is a new to me author and this is a different story but I loved it!
Elle is a chef judge on a new reality cooking competition, she is getting ready to open her own restaurant, so the publicity is good for her career. She is feisty, she is driven, I kept calling her the female Gordon Ramsey in my head while reading.
Austin is a constant on the show, he is surprised to even be on the show, but winning could completely change is life and his sisters life. He has no formal training like others on the show, but definitely has the skill.
Elle and Austin are from completely different backgrounds, but they are perfect for each other. Austin can hep Elle lighten up. I mean, he did teach her how to hug. She was able to help him find the confidence in his cooking to help with his career.
There is a year age gap between Elle and Austin, she is 32 and he is 22. I know that isn’t for everyone, but Austin is mature of his age. He has a good head on his shoulders. The chemistry between the two is sizzling. This story is proof that opposites truly do attract and in the case of Elle and Austin lead to loads of steaminess and a forbidden romance.
This romance was fun from start to finish and I love that they were chefs!
Elle is a chef judge on a new reality cooking competition, she is getting ready to open her own restaurant, so the publicity is good for her career. She is feisty, she is driven, I kept calling her the female Gordon Ramsey in my head while reading.
Austin is a constant on the show, he is surprised to even be on the show, but winning could completely change is life and his sisters life. He has no formal training like others on the show, but definitely has the skill.
Elle and Austin are from completely different backgrounds, but they are perfect for each other. Austin can hep Elle lighten up. I mean, he did teach her how to hug. She was able to help him find the confidence in his cooking to help with his career.
There is a year age gap between Elle and Austin, she is 32 and he is 22. I know that isn’t for everyone, but Austin is mature of his age. He has a good head on his shoulders. The chemistry between the two is sizzling. This story is proof that opposites truly do attract and in the case of Elle and Austin lead to loads of steaminess and a forbidden romance.
This romance was fun from start to finish and I love that they were chefs!
March 21, 2019
What a wonderful little read this was. An established, well known (and feared) Chef and an unknown, untried, young, funny and responsibility ladened wanna be Chef meet on set (well they weren't exactly on the set when they very first meet), and the sparks ignite, the angst begins and when all of the ingredients are mixed together, you get one mighty spicy dish served up to you right in the hotel room! What is the Missing Ingredient, well you will have to read this book to find out exactly what it is because believe me, by the end of the story, you will realize just what was missing.
The characters were well written, as were the supporting characters. The personalities were all there, woven into the story as the characters come to life and the taping of the show progresses. You will see them all, and as for the main characters, let's just say that you may want to slap our leading lady once..or maybe twice, but once you strain the salty water, you will find the tenderness you were hoping to find.
Wonderfully entertaining read and I do recommend this book!
The characters were well written, as were the supporting characters. The personalities were all there, woven into the story as the characters come to life and the taping of the show progresses. You will see them all, and as for the main characters, let's just say that you may want to slap our leading lady once..or maybe twice, but once you strain the salty water, you will find the tenderness you were hoping to find.
Wonderfully entertaining read and I do recommend this book!
March 18, 2019
There's nothing I love more than a feisty heroine, and Elle fits that perfectly! She is a strong character and I loved her! And can we talk about the hotness that exudes from a man who can cook like Austin? This was a super fun, light-hearted read with just enough sizzle and drama to make it the perfect story to devour! I really enjoyed Elle and Austin's story and give it 5 tasty stars!
March 24, 2019
LOVED Elle and Austin. This opposites-attract story was made all the sexier by the older woman/younger man element. I loved seeing both characters grow throughout and this story left a huge smile on my face. (It also left me wishing I was a more creative cook, but that's a whole different thing. :) )
October 10, 2019
Loved it!
This book was absolutely amazing. It was entertaining and sweet. It was hilarious. It was well written and the storyline was spot on. The characters were remarkable and the bond they shared was strong. The ending was the sweetest ever.
This book was absolutely amazing. It was entertaining and sweet. It was hilarious. It was well written and the storyline was spot on. The characters were remarkable and the bond they shared was strong. The ending was the sweetest ever.
March 31, 2019
I was anxious to read this book but now that I've read it I'm a bit disappointed it's so boring, 0 excitement. Sorry.
April 8, 2019
Fun, sexy, sweet - everything you need in a great romance!
Want to read
April 6, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/31/2020)! 🎁
January 3, 2020
This was book #3 for Romanceopoly 2020.
Square: Around Town, Farmer's Market
Challenge Pack: Moon
Challenge: Read a romance where the hero or heroine is a chef or works in the food industry, owns a bakery/restaurant/food or drink establishment.
Elle Fierro is a successful chef in New York, on the verge of opening her own restaurant. We open with her final night at the restaurant where she was an Executive Chef for five years and will be heading to sunny Southern California to be the head judge on a Food-Network-type show called Taste Tests. (Think Chopped or The Next Food Network Star.) While she has never had any desire to be on tv, she knows that this is great publicity and will guarantee she has people interested in her new restaurant. She driven, scary, and commands respect - she wants nothing more than to ensure that her restaurant is successful and doesn't have time for anything else... until Austin.
Austin Cox is a man trying to get custody of his sister and get her out of the foster system, where she's been since their mother died. He's got a natural talent for cooking and ends up as a contestant on the show. He wants to win to become a chef and hold down a steady job so he can prove to the courts that he can support the both of them. While he's not professionally trained and he's not convinced that the network didn't bring him on just for comic relief, he's got his eye on the prize... until he meets Elle.
When Elle and Austin meet, there is incredible electricity between them - and not just because of the manner in which they meet. Their attraction is off the charts, full stop. However, they both have to struggle to keep it under wraps until one unplanned day off from filming...
Yes, that's a lot to say about the book - yet, I still haven't really spoiled it. You get most of that from the blurb on Amazon. (Okay, I added more detail. Whatever.) I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. It was funny and full of feels all at the same time - and I would be remiss if I didn't say it, the sex was HOT and well-written. While I could tell what was going to happen about halfway through, it still gutted me - and that was only at 60% in! This was my first Marika Ray book and I'm really looking forward to exploring more of her books once Romanceopoly is over.
Square: Around Town, Farmer's Market
Challenge Pack: Moon
Challenge: Read a romance where the hero or heroine is a chef or works in the food industry, owns a bakery/restaurant/food or drink establishment.
Elle Fierro is a successful chef in New York, on the verge of opening her own restaurant. We open with her final night at the restaurant where she was an Executive Chef for five years and will be heading to sunny Southern California to be the head judge on a Food-Network-type show called Taste Tests. (Think Chopped or The Next Food Network Star.) While she has never had any desire to be on tv, she knows that this is great publicity and will guarantee she has people interested in her new restaurant. She driven, scary, and commands respect - she wants nothing more than to ensure that her restaurant is successful and doesn't have time for anything else... until Austin.
Austin Cox is a man trying to get custody of his sister and get her out of the foster system, where she's been since their mother died. He's got a natural talent for cooking and ends up as a contestant on the show. He wants to win to become a chef and hold down a steady job so he can prove to the courts that he can support the both of them. While he's not professionally trained and he's not convinced that the network didn't bring him on just for comic relief, he's got his eye on the prize... until he meets Elle.
When Elle and Austin meet, there is incredible electricity between them - and not just because of the manner in which they meet. Their attraction is off the charts, full stop. However, they both have to struggle to keep it under wraps until one unplanned day off from filming...
Yes, that's a lot to say about the book - yet, I still haven't really spoiled it. You get most of that from the blurb on Amazon. (Okay, I added more detail. Whatever.) I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. It was funny and full of feels all at the same time - and I would be remiss if I didn't say it, the sex was HOT and well-written. While I could tell what was going to happen about halfway through, it still gutted me - and that was only at 60% in! This was my first Marika Ray book and I'm really looking forward to exploring more of her books once Romanceopoly is over.
June 6, 2019
What a steamy romance with a new spin!
I love books of all kinds, but sometimes it's hard to find a book that doesn't have the same old form and story type. Marika Ray puts a spin on things with The Missing Ingredient.
For starters, the female lead is older, which I don't see often. The story is also based off of a cooking show, which is not a concept I have read either!
I loved so many things about this book, but won't ruin it, but telling you individually.
I did love the characters. I could feel their turmoil and struggle with overcoming the things life had thrown their way. I also LOVED the overall premise to be who you want to be and not what is expected of you! In a world where we are taught from birth to please others, this is a fantastic thing to share with others.
I also had not realized who wrote this and that I had read my first book by her earlier this month. I tend to look at the cover and dive in without any background information. (Sorry to my lit professor!) While I like the first book from Ray I read earlier, this one reassured me that I was right and would want to read more from her.
Looking forward to more in this series.
*Read in KU*
I love books of all kinds, but sometimes it's hard to find a book that doesn't have the same old form and story type. Marika Ray puts a spin on things with The Missing Ingredient.
For starters, the female lead is older, which I don't see often. The story is also based off of a cooking show, which is not a concept I have read either!
I loved so many things about this book, but won't ruin it, but telling you individually.
I did love the characters. I could feel their turmoil and struggle with overcoming the things life had thrown their way. I also LOVED the overall premise to be who you want to be and not what is expected of you! In a world where we are taught from birth to please others, this is a fantastic thing to share with others.
I also had not realized who wrote this and that I had read my first book by her earlier this month. I tend to look at the cover and dive in without any background information. (Sorry to my lit professor!) While I like the first book from Ray I read earlier, this one reassured me that I was right and would want to read more from her.
Looking forward to more in this series.
*Read in KU*
June 16, 2019
Austin just a bit over 20 always knew he loved to make food for people and the enjoyment he finds with satisfying the ladies with his specialties. He enters this cook off competitions as just a joke and he ends up becoming one of the contestants. Elle a very uptight chief around the age of 30 who is remodeling a building to put in her very first restaurant. She is co-hosting a cook off show for the name and notoriety it will bring her and her new restaurant. Austin is very familiar with Elle and he has her cookbook and he really wants to win this cook off to save his baby sister who since there mom passed away is in the foster system. Will he be able to win the cook off challenge and save his sister and win Elle's heart, that is all to be seen in this super sexy rom-com special from Marika Ray. This is a 5-Star book. I pray you will enjoy it as much as I did.
This book was gifted to me by the Author Marika Ray.
This book was gifted to me by the Author Marika Ray.
March 22, 2019
A nice way to pass the afternoon while curled up on the sofa.
Elle, an executive chef, meets Austin, an aspiring chef, when he mistakenly enters her dressing room for the reality cooking show they are both going to be a part of. As the story progresses roles are shaken, perceptions are tested and the wrong choices may cost them everything. Marika Ray has branched out and spread her sassy heroine 's wings in The Missing Ingredient. Mixing plenty of humor with everyday issues and adding the reality tv topping pushed this into a nice way to pass the afternoon while curled up on the sofa.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Elle, an executive chef, meets Austin, an aspiring chef, when he mistakenly enters her dressing room for the reality cooking show they are both going to be a part of. As the story progresses roles are shaken, perceptions are tested and the wrong choices may cost them everything. Marika Ray has branched out and spread her sassy heroine 's wings in The Missing Ingredient. Mixing plenty of humor with everyday issues and adding the reality tv topping pushed this into a nice way to pass the afternoon while curled up on the sofa.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
May 25, 2019
Piece de resistance! I adored this delightful romance. An opposites attract story filled with humor, heat and heart. I thought that Austin and Elle were amazing characters. Austin was so genuine and laid back, while Elle was so fierce and fiery. Their attraction was undeniable and their chemistry off the charts. Add in the older woman/younger man angle, a bit of drama and some emotional turmoil and you have a book that is an incredibly fun and delicious read. This is my frank, freely posted review.
July 12, 2019
The story of Ella and Austin.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was such a good entertaining book. I was able to relate to the characters as they fell in love with each other. It was a deer love story and ended with a happily ever after. I love the humor that Austin had and he seemed like a very honorable man. I have to say that Marika did a fantastic job in writing this book and I have it five stars. If you like a good entertaining clean romance comedy to read I would definitely recommend reading this book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was such a good entertaining book. I was able to relate to the characters as they fell in love with each other. It was a deer love story and ended with a happily ever after. I love the humor that Austin had and he seemed like a very honorable man. I have to say that Marika did a fantastic job in writing this book and I have it five stars. If you like a good entertaining clean romance comedy to read I would definitely recommend reading this book.
April 11, 2020
I'd give this 2.5 stars. It was well written and flowed well enough but just didn't gel with me. The characters were likeable but there wasn't any real chemistry. I also wouldn't call it a romcom because there weren't any real comedy moments or funny lines. Austin had a couple of cheesy jokes but that was it. The synopsis also gives away a major plot line that could've been built up to create some drama but fell flat because you already know it's coming. It just left me feeling a bit flat unfortunately.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews