Taste

by Lilliana Anderson

Always forward. Never back.

I’ve lived my life to that mantra. The past should stay in the past, buried along with the discomfort and heartache.

Always forward.

I’m at the top of my game, dubbed as Australia’s most popular celebrity chef by Voyeur magazine. I’m the youngest chef to ever get a Michelin Star. I’ve travelled the world, thrown everything I have at my career, and I have zero regrets.

Never back.

Then I receive an invite to a reunion. Suddenly that past I’ve buried comes flooding back: the girl I waited for; the girl I protected; the girl I loved with every inch of my soul; the girl who got away...

The girl who didn’t care.

The girl who used me then left me for someone else.

Now I’m going back. Even though I promised myself I’d never think about that heartless b!tch again.

Tensions flare when Brad is faced with his first love and the reality behind her leaving in this emotionally heart wrenching standalone. Taste: Beautiful Series, six. Containing new and extended scenes from A Beautiful Taste in this updated novel.

Genres: Second Chance, Romance

205 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2020

About the author

Bestselling Author of the Beautiful Series, Drawn and 47 Things, Lilliana has always loved to read and write, considering it the best form of escapism that the world has to offer.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.

Reviews

[Meegz Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4 Stars*

ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.

I would've devoured this book in one sitting, if I didn't have so much stuff going on right now. It was a really easy read, even though it deals with some serious issues.

I liked all our main characters, and the secondary ones too. Brad and Dakota are perfect for each other, and just need the time to catch up and get their explanations after all these years. There were plenty of things that were huge surprises in regards to this, and that I definitely did not see coming.

This is quite a fast paced story, and whilst sometimes it seems to be moving fast and all happening with a bang, its still kind of feels right too.

Another great story in this series, and I look forward to the next book, which I really hope is about Ruby. Definitely recommend.


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[Laurel Nilsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taste is book 6 in the Beautiful series and is about Brad and Dakota. This is a second chance romance and starts off when Brad is 16 and he falls for Dakota who he finds out is only 13 after her father ask Brad to keep and eye out for her, Brad keeps her at arms length for the next 3 years and then after one magical afternoon Dakota vanishes never to been seen again Brad moves on with his life only 7 years later to be faced with the only girl he had ever really love. Will this pair be able to put the past behind them and let themselves fall again. One click you won’t be disappointed,

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

The storyline is amazingly written it grabs and keeps you turning pages as fast you can, Brad and Dakota were childhood sweethearts that were torn apart. Brad left and is coming back for a reunion will he get answer as to why Dakota left all those years ago....I had a great time reading this book

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brad And Dakota's Is A Painfully Beautiful Story Of True Love Persevering Over All Else!


This is book six in the Beautiful series. It is celebrity chef Bradley Rae and Dakota Morgan's story. It reads perfectly as a stand-alone, but Brad plays a supporting role in book five of the series, Star, and that book provides additional details on his background as well as a peak at his life in a period not covered here. Characters from previous books in the series pop up. Elliot and Paige are present from Forever, book two - Elliot, a personal trainer, is Brad's best friend from their teen years. Movie star Jonathan Masters and Sandra Haegan from Voyeur Magazine are mentioned from book five. Matiari and Marcus Bailey are also referenced from books three and four.

Dakota Morgan - or Cody - finds herself at age twenty-three working the same job she has had since age fourteen. She waitresses full time now and helps with other odd jobs at her parents' club. The Syndney Kayaking Club is their life, and one day it will belong to her. It was there that she first saw the love of her life, Brad. She was thirteen, he sixteen. He had been angry when her father, Coach Morgan, informed him of her age. Brad stopped speaking to her and kept himself surrounded by a steady stream girls, yet for the next three years he wouldn't let her move on. At sixteen she had reason to believe they could finally have a future together, but tragedy threw their fated reunion off course. Seven years later, she dreads the possibility of seeing Brad again at the club's fundraiser. She knows he deserves answers, but talking about it would take tremendous courage.

Bradley Rae, twenty-six, is Syndey's own celebrity chef. Featured in magazines, newspapers, and occasionally on television, he travels internationally for guest gigs and to research trends. Keeping his menu fresh is critical for success, but he loves being home and working as head chef at Quay, one of Syndey's most popular dining destinations. The restaurant is like family and he loves cooking because it comforts him. Although Brad wasn't wanted by his parents, he was raised from age ten by his great Aunt Ruby, who had patiently loved and nurtured him until her death. He began cooking at age sixteen, when he quit school and began an apprenticeship. It was the same year that Aunt Ruby had signed him up for kayaking at the club to keep him out of trouble and instill discipline. The same year he met Cody. He had never loved another woman. It would be so much better if he could, but the answers he never got still eat away at him and prevent him from letting go. He needs answers so that he can be free of the past.

Brad and Dakota's love had been forbidden, yet stood the test of time only for the couple to be cruelly ripped apart once again. Their reunion is raw and emotional, but the answers are stunning and unexpected. Although they both recognize their love for one another and a desire to be together, they need to deal with the aftermath of their separation and accept what happened. Dakota worries about protecting her secrets, and Brad deals with tremendous guilt. They are both blessed with hearts that love deeply, enabling them to accept whole-heartedly. Brad's Aunt Ruby plays an important role in his life, and their love for one another gives him great strength as an adult, despite her passing. Brad and Dakota's is a painfully beautiful story of true love persevering over all else. The couple earns their tearful HEA ... but there is a hint at the end that their story isn't yet over?!?

There are a few issues that may bother some readers. First, there several typos. *Spoilers* Second, Brad wasn't entirely honest with Dakota about his relationship with Ruby. A line had been crossed a year ago, and Ruby very recently tried to kiss him. Even if he never intended to allow it, he toyed with Ruby and led her on with his body language, granted before Dakota returned but it was still dishonest. Beyond that, it is even worse that he chose to speak to Ruby about his troubles with Dakota. A line was crossed, Ruby was recently interested, he hadn't been forthcoming - he had no business talking to Ruby, whose motives and judgement might not be impartial. And if he were sincerely a good friend, he wouldn't burden Ruby, a girl that likes him, with the details of his love life - especially when her personal life is crashing. Considering the sensitive issues involved, it was especially careless. Although he admits fault to some of this, he didn't recognize all of it.

Brad and Dakota's story is a story of true love, guilt, and acceptance. It is nicely written. The plot is fairly simple, though the subject matter is deep. The characters are well-defined. Both Brad and Dakota are fiercely protective. Dakota's story is harrowing, and Brad's is a wonderful illustration of the power of nurture triumphing over that of nature. Aunt Ruby is memorable in her limited role. The POV alternates between Brad and Dakota. I rate this book four stars.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ria Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect ... second chances do happen

TASTE, the sixth book in Lilliana Anderson's Beautiful Series, is Bradley "Brad" Rae and Dakota "Cody" Morgan's story. It is about being given a second chance in life and it's absolutely perfect. Lilliana has once again written a beautiful and poignant story about two people who are destined to be together.

Brad and Cody meet as teenagers, he is 16 and she is 13, instantly there is a spark between them, however the age difference causes a few problems. Their friendship continues for the next three years, but something is missing, something that they both need. When they finally take the next step and communicate their thoughts and feelings everything seems to be perfect. However, tragedy strikes in the cruelest of ways and Cody disappears from Brad's life. He's left lost and confused as to why the one person he truly loves no longer wants to be around him, or anyone else.

Fast forward seven years, Brad is now a world reknowned chef and Cody is still working at her parent's Kayak Club. A reunion at the Kayaking Club brings them back together. All Brad wants to do is find out why Cody disappeared and all Cody wants to do is avoid him - or so she thinks, yet the moment he sees her all logical thought leaves his mind. He still wants her ... no ... he still loves her. When Brad finds out the reason for Cody's disappearance he is stunned and filled with guilt. Cody has come to terms with her past and must convince Brad that she is ready to be loved once again.

This story is the journey of two people who need to overcome sorrow, guilt, miscommunication and the interference of others to rediscover the love that they once held for each other. I absolutely adored Brad, here was a man who never got over his first love and was willing to give their love another chance. He was a real gentleman and gave Cody all the time that she needed. This was a man who could have had any woman he wanted, but there was only one woman for him ... Cody. Cody was pure sweetness with that added touch of sexy naughtiness thrown in. She had been through a lot in the last seven years, but she was stronger, and she was also still in love with Brad. When these two are together the sparks certainly fly.

Lilliana certainly has that knack of writing characters that will draw in her readers, make them care about what is happening to them. Her readers laugh, cry, get angry and fall in love just as her characters do. TASTE is another exceptional addition to the Beautiful Series and I eagerly await the next two additions.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

FIVE STARS

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some tastes are bitter some are sweet and some are like life.... a combination of both

Taste is the sixth and last book in the Beautiful series by Lilliana Anderson. This is another wonderfully written story by the author in this series. The characters of Dakota "Cody" Morgan and Bradley Rae are both well developed and have a lot of depth and emotion to them. There are also characters from the other books in the series that pop up and help move the story-line along.
Cody has been in love with Brad since she was thirteen and he was sixteen. But as she is so young he stays away from her, cutting off their friendship and crushing her. Three years later and they start their friendship up again along with some romance. But it was not a true course for a reunion between these two or a future together. Cody disappears on Brad without a word which leaves him upset and confused, as he had waited for three years to be close to her, keeping all other boys away from her during that time. Now she is twenty-three and working as a waitress while Brad has become a successful and very hot chef. When they have a reunion at a regatta Brad wants to know why she left. What Cody finally shares will rip your heart in two and make you shed more than a few tears. Brad is supportive, loving and there for her. If Cody can finally deal with things then she and Brad may finally get that HEA they were always fated to have.

I read an advanced copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary and honest review. My opinions are all my own.

[Lisa May · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this story that I suspended my other series just to jump right in - something I wouldn't do for just any author! I have come to expect riveting material from Ms. Anderson and this book does just that. From the minute I started reading, I fell in love with the characters. Dakota made my heart hurt as she endured the most horrendous of all crimes. Through that crime she held her head high, and did what she felt was the right thing. The pain of loosing Brad and her friends never far from her mind. Brad, on the other hand, took their loss and turned it towards pushing himself and his career. Making him successful in other areas while holding on to his dear Aunt. His childhood dictated how he would handle Dakota's news and that made me love him more. He took what was once a painful experience and turned it into LOVE for what Dakota had to share. You will find this book easy to read, enjoyable, and "feel good." A great Saturday afternoon, snuggle by the fire, read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jean Dewsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Series book 6 has you captivated from the beginning undecided where these characters could develop from a rocky 16 year old boy Brad Rae raised by his great aunt, and a 13 year old girl Dakota Morgan.
Dakota is the kakak coach's daughter nicknamed Cody, what Brad didn't know was that Cody was only 13years old. Cody didn't think that her age was of concern she didn't want to be treated like a child. Once Cody's dad told Brad she was 13 and to watch over her. It crushed Cody's crush when Brad withdrew his friendship and warned off anyone else that showed interest in her.
Time passes and cody is now 16years old and her infatuation with Brad has never stopped.

Their time was brief life was never the same for Brad after Cody simply disappeared. 7 years later at a 10 year regatta reunion Brad wants answers.

Cody and Brad's story is emotional and violent and heartbreaking which such past hurts and secrets.
This is a beautifully written heartwarming second chance romance about always moving forward.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by the author and now i want to read them all! I was immediately sucked into a sweet childhood crush that grew and then was ruined by tragedy. The way she wrote this, how the characters found themselves together again and the challenges they faced, all of it felt so real and raw. Not so much this easy romance we are used to seeing. The dialogue flowed well, the book overall flowed really well and i didn't feel like i was trudging through mud ever. The entire ride was over before i knew it! I can't believe how quickly i absorbed this book! So well done! Can't wait to go back and read more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've enjoyed the books in this series so far but it isn't necessary to have read them before this.
Dakota had a childhood crush on Brad however when he finds out how old she is plus being the coaches daughter he has second thoughts. They find their way together years later but an incident years them apart.
Their paths cross 10 yrs later & Brad still holds a grudge but when he finds out the truth, which also is related to problems with one of his employees, he quickly reassesses his situation.
Another good tale in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brilliant read but also very emotional.
There has been a connection between Brad and Dakota from the first time they met but she was only 13 and he was 16.
Years later the chemistry and connection is still there but he can't get over the fact that she ghosted him a few years back.
Dakota has had a traumatic time since they last parted but has worked her way through it but will she be able to share it with Brad or has their time of being together passed.
Loved reading this book and it was handled brilliantly.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taste is Book 6 in the Beautiful Series which focuses on Brad and Dakota’s story. Heartbreakingly beautiful is the first thing that comes to mind. Brad is the type of genuine, naughty but nice man I think we all hope we’ll find (without being sappy and sickly).
Dakota and Brad met when they were only 13 and 16..... but that didn’t stop them falling into the type of love that lasts a lifetime. Tragedy, heartbreak, abuse, sorrow, love and trust all shine through in this beautifully written book that keeps you up well into the night to find out what will transpire.
Loved it.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book six in the Beautiful series. Wow, what a story! I think this is my new favorite of the series. I loved reading Brad and Cody's story. When the past will not stay buried and allow you to move forward, what can you do? Brad gets a second chance to get answers to his past with Cody when he attends a reunion. Will Cody dig up the past to reveal the secrets? A smooth, realistic story of a second chance for these two layered characters. Enjoy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Caroline Doig · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about a childhood crush that went very wrong and it’s Dakota’s and Brad’s story it’s so emotional and raw I loved these two characters especially when they meet up again at the yacht club fundraiser. I admire Dakota’s strength when she finally tells Brad everything but will he listen and will it be their second chance?. Sorry guys no spoilers it’s such an emotional story thank you Lilliana for this wonderful heartfelt story and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.

[Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely worth more than 5 stars!!
From Dakota's best and darkest days to Brad's love, understanding and his fears they where just an amazing pair of characters, and the way this book has been written gently touched on painful events that could trigger someone just got to me in so many ways.
Not everyone may be able to read through but I personally felt ok to read, but that's just me, definitely reading more from Lilliana....

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Paula Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful, sweet love story. I love Lilliana's work! This book was a great addition to the series. Cody and Brad had an instant attraction. But, she was way too young. After some time, they reconnected. I won't spoil the story, but it takes a turn. I recommend this book ( and the rest of the series). I loved the last line,"The end...or is it?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Comfy Couch Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read of Lilliana's so the first in this series and it was a great introduction. This was the story of Brad and Dakota who had been in love with each other since she was 13 and he was 16, though they were unable to become a couple until they were older.

After one night together, Dakota leaves Brad to walk home and he doesn't see her again for seven years when he has become a world famous chef and she has a seven year old son. They are both nervous about seeing each other again but the attraction between them is still there, the question is why did Dakota leave and can they get back on track and find happiness together. This is an easy and enjoyable read with the sweetness of young love but the agony of the situation that these two find themselves when Dakota's secret is revealed. I loved this story and read it in one sitting.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4th book I've read written by Lilliana Anderson; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s very enjoyable and engaging story. Very well written and storyline flows beautifully.
Brad and Dakota’s story is a story of true love, guilt, and acceptance. While storyline is simple, the subject matter is deep.
Dakota’s story is harrowing, and Brad’s is very powerful, they are protectors.
The book is standalone but characters from previous books have appeared,too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Baxygirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy hell, this was H.O.T

What a sensational and sexy A..F.. story!
Beautifully written, characters ere just gorgeous, flawed like real people are kinda gorgeous.
Secrets hurt too much to keep hidden, especially from those you need in your life!

I love this story so much it’s going to be my reread go-to ❤️❤️❤️

[Maja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is about Brad and Dakota and it is the sixth book in the Beautiful series. Just like all the books before, this one is also a beautiful story, with great characters that pull you in from the very first page. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jackie Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a hot steamy erotic romance story perfect for a quick afternoon read.
A great heart pounding read. The story was very well written with great characters. It drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[poppy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super addition to the series but it can easily be read on ts own. I really enjoy a good second chance romance so Brad and Dakota's story was just perfect for me I really liked these two they are just perfect for each other. This was a good well-written read I really liked it.

[SEng · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Dakota and Brad. They were childhood sweethearts until tragedy changed everything. This is a wonderful sweet second chance romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Petra Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous, another great story in the Beautiful Series, but it worked equally well as a stand alone story. Cannot wait for the next one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story! It's the sixth story in the "Beautiful" series but can be read as a stand alone. The story is a good read and nicely developed. This is Brad and Dakota’s story. It's heartfelt and a touch emotional but a beautiful romance.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely entertaining, captivating and interesting sexy read. I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong, intriguing characters. I want to read more from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Margaret Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like all the other books in this series I absolutely adored Taste.
Brad and Dakota's story was choc full of all the good stuff and I love reading about real people with real problems and flaws.
This series is one of my go to re reads.

[AND 1515 · Rating 5 out of 5]

by and1515

This is the first book I've read by Lilliana Anderson and i'm so glad I chose these one to read.
What a great book on so many levels an emotional whirlwind that makes you think
about many hard topics.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laurie Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was great read this book. Highly recommended. Look forward for next book from you soon. No spoilers here.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.