Attempting suicide was the only solution after love left her for dead. On this side of life, Jasper Lloyd puts love on the back burner as she focuses on locating the mole that’s been planted to destroy her business. Balancing friends that live in chaos and a mother that disapproves of her career choice is impossible. Jasper is teetering on a slippery slope until she meets David Brooks, the heir that surrendered his family’s dynasty for the wrong girl. David’s decision cost him everything, including his family. Emotionally bankrupt with his past resting in the rearview mirror, David is determined to reclaim his position. Contending with hatred, scrutiny, judgment, and disrespect are hurdles he didn’t expect, but conquering them is his only option. Meeting Jasper shakes his foundation because love can’t be on the agenda when it was a part of his failure. Lock in on this emotional roller coaster where mixing fear and failure are a recipe for disaster, but love is the ingredient that was never expected.
I really enjoyed this story! It started off kinda slow for me, but the development of the characters and the story were on point. I love the friendship between Jasper, Freckles, and Kim and hope that maybe....one day...we’ll get more of their backgrounds and stories.
It’s a good story with a great ending...and I’m excited about the next chapter!
Montoya Epperson's "Recipe for Disaster" is a masterful blend of romance and drama that captivates from the first page to the last. The story beautifully explores the complexities of love, trust, and personal growth. The characters are richly developed, with each one bringing depth and authenticity to the narrative. This writing is engaging and vivid, making it easy to get lost in the story. The emotional journey is compelling and heartfelt, leaving readers both satisfied and wanting more. An absolute must-read for romance enthusiasts!
It probably would've been better to read it rather than listen to it. The narrators on the audiobook were not the best choices. The story seemed good. A little drawn out but it ended like there could be a part 2. I liked the characters and the writing style.
This is my first read by this author... I will say that I really enjoyed this book... It read at a pretty fast pace with lots of drama, secrets, hurt feelings, backstabbing, fighting and so much more... It had a nice flow and the storyline pulled me in... It stated with the epilogue and it slowly pulled me in after that... It took me a little bit from the beginning to really get caught up because I felt like there was a lot going on from the beginning with a lot of characters... The only thing I feel that may have really pulled away from the great storyline for me is the over detailing... It was a little to much when explaining as people walked into the room and what the room looked like to what everyone was wearing to me there was a lot of unnecessary things described... But I can not take away from the talent of this author and how this storyline got pulled together and had me all in... I love Jasper... She is a very smart beautiful young lady that is a fighter... No matter what is thrown at her... She always overcomes... She is a Chef... and an amazing one at that... So much so that she has a major hater and they are doing all that they can to break her and ruin her business and name... But as you know... Talent speaks for itself... And what is done in the dark will always come out to the light... After all that Jasper has been through and what she is currently dealing with... She has determination and strength like no other... She even has to battle with her loved ones to get the respect that she deserves... I hate the way they make her feel... Luckily she has her best friends Freckles and Kim in her corner... But are they really a help or a hindrance... Are they really the friends that they portray themselves to be or are they just waiting to see her fail... I really hate the way that they take advantage of them being her friend and could possibly make her lose everything she has worked so hard for with all that they keep doing... I mean she already has an enemy coming at her from all directions and sabotaging her and all her hard work that she has put in... Now them... She had the worst heartbreak that almost cost her her life... It had her making bad decisions left and right and all for what... A man that treated her like trash and thought she was nothing... I like David... I just think he has a lot of problems right now... He is a very handsome man with lots of money along with his family in all their businesses... But internally he is battling a lot... Not only that, he keeps going head to head with his own brothers... Are they jealous of him or is everything they are saying and feeling true... David has a very bad temper that can get out of control very quickly... And his brother know exactly what to say and do to get under his skin and bring it out to make him look like he is out of control... Luckily for him, his father knows how he is and knows how to handle everyone... With 6 boys his father has his hands full... David has been heart broken so bad that it is really hard for him to come back from that... Who would have known that one night at a club would change both David and Jasper's life so much and in such a short amount of time... Who would have known all the internal battles that they each would have... Who would have known the major effect that each one would have on the others life... While Jasper is trying to stay afloat with her business that is being sabotaged from the inside... She is trying to figure out if a relationship with David is what she hoped for... Or is it distracting her to much that she will need to step away in order to regroup... All the while David is trying to prove to his father that he can handle the business and he is sorry for walking away before... Only to have to deal with this mess from his own brothers trying to take him down... But he does not know the right thing to do anymore in a relationship especially with a woman like Jasper that wants nothing to do with his money because she has her own.. So his controlling ways starts to creep in and it is really making him look bad and like a big liar... He wants to hold on so bad that he is losing every... Then to top it all off... it looks like the past for both David and Jasper are rearing its ugly head... Threatening what these two are trying to build but are having a hard time getting the foundation down to build off of... Well I guess I am onto part 2 to see how all of this will play out... I need to see if what David and Jasper can even survive what I see coming their way... or if they are just to broken from the past to even put in the effort to fight for what they really want and deserve...
Jasper could be considered the glue that keeps the things together for her and her girls, Kim and Freckles. She is the ride or die friend. Just because she can keep the crew together doesnt me her life is going smoothly. Jasper is a caterer starting her own business. She is trying to make a name for herself but someone is making sure that will not happen for her. Who is trying to sabotage her business?
David has very bad luck when it comes to women. To me he seems to be dumb as a door knob. He always seems to go for Mrs. Wrong. Well this last time, he chose Mrs. Wrong and lost everything. Yes David will have to fight from the bottom to get things back to the way it was and as you read you can tell he is up for the challenge. Jasper and David meet. Something is there but because of the hurt that one has gone through and the drama the other is going through makes both of them miss the fireworks to me. Going right past the target is called love. Will love have its way in more ways than one? Or will everything fail?
Jasper was getting on my nerves in some parts of the novel but I will say that her development as a character saved her in my eyes. David on the other hand, I felt bad for him. I was rooting for this couple from the moment they met. So many times in this book I was thinking to myself why won't these two??? OMG they are getting on my last nerve. But seeing the love mature between them was worth. The up and down of the roller coaster called emotions UGH!!!!. Good job but I know that there has to be more. Correct?? BTW: I do have one request?? Can I please beat up Freckles and Kim? She got on my nerves badly. Freckles (Amber) didn’t know any better and Kim at the end seemed like a hater to me. I know they were just looking out for their homegirl but dang. LOL
Jasper could be considered the glue that keeps the things together for her and her girls, Kim and Freckles. She is the ride or die friend. Just because she can keep the crew together doesnt me her life is going smoothly. Jasper is a caterer starting her own business. She is trying to make a name for herself but someone is making sure that will not happen for her. Who is trying to sabotage her business?
David has very bad luck when it comes to women. To me he seems to be dumb as a door knob. He always seems to go for Mrs. Wrong. Well this last time, he chose Mrs. Wrong and lost everything. Yes David will have to fight from the bottom to get things back to the way it was and as you read you can tell he is up for the challenge. Jasper and David meet. Something is there but because of the hurt that one has gone through and the drama the other is going through makes both of them miss the fireworks to me. Going right past the target is called love. Will love have its way in more ways than one? Or will everything fail?
Jasper was getting on my nerves in some parts of the novel but I will say that her development as a character saved her in my eyes. David on the other hand, I felt bad for him. I was rooting for this couple from the moment they met. So many times in this book I was thinking to myself why won't these two??? OMG they are getting on my last nerve. But seeing the love mature between them was worth. The up and down of the roller coaster called emotions UGH!!!!. Good job but I know that there has to be more. Correct?? BTW: I do have one request?? Can I please beat up Freckles and Kim? She got on my nerves badly. Freckles (Amber) didn’t know any better and Kim at the end seemed like a hater to me. I know they were just looking out for their homegirl but dang. LOL
This book did not disappoint. When you hear the title a recipe for disaster, it catches your eye that there is something exciting to be read. I love that the writer draws you in the story right away.The book showcases the love between a man and woman and it also doesnt shy away from the baggage that these 2 main characters bring to the table. I think this book highlights the true struggles that we as human beings bring to all the relationships in our lives. Sometimes that trauma is so deep that you dont realize it as you transition from different aspects of your life. I really enjoyed Jaspar. I could totally relate to being that friend that is always looking out for her best friends. I also enjoyed the build up of Jaspar and David's relationship. I also that like that the writer did not try and make this the typical love story where the characters are just perfect and everything in their lives are perfect. This book also provides just the right amount of steam, sexiness, and crazieness. Also, within this story is the true aspect of being a survivor. I can't wait for the next book!
Jasper AKA BlueJay: a fire cracker, a lover, a homie, a friend, and most importantly, a chef! Jasper doesn’t want to maintain the family business, she wants to be a popular Chef, cooking and catering for the elite! She doesn’t have time for love because she’s been there and done that, anything outside of reaching her dreams would be a distraction.
David: charming, sexy, a lover, and an associate in his Fathers business. They got moneyyy!!! All he wishes to do is settle down and create a family of his own. But when his past impacts his career and starts to impact his future relationship too. His dream of creating his own family is far fetched!
My thoughts: this book was good. It kept me engaged. The character development was there. The spice was there(it wasn’t overwhelming) . The storyline was good!
100/10 definitely recommend! I was pulled in from the dedication given to all who helped the author compose this book rather it was encouraging words or a helping eye! Then as the story begins to unfold I found myself trying to predict what would happen next for BluJay. I couldn’t get to the next sentence yet along the next chapter quick enough to settle my hypothesis! I found myself chucking quite often, emphasizing with each of the characters (except that annoying as DJ & Rhea), and even shedding a fear tears for my girl! I gots to find the next one ASAP as the hopeless romantic I am I pray she sets the record & Rhea straight with her thirsty ssa! Montoya you did your big one with this one!
This book is full of spicy characters that are potentially likable yet flawed in their own way. Both main characters have endured their share of heartache where relationships are concerned and each seems to be just what the other needs to restore their faith in love. Add in hurdles like communication and demanding careers as well as a host of supporting characters with a variety of issues of their own and one thing’s for sure: chaos is on the menu. There were a few situations unresolved that I assume will be cleared up as the series continues but overall readers are definitely in for a mouthwatering tale.
This book is filled with intriguing characters who are both likable and flawed in their own ways. The two main characters have experienced heartache in their past relationships and seem to be exactly what the other needs to restore their faith in love. In addition to challenges like communication and demanding careers, there are also several supporting characters with their own issues. One thing's for sure: chaos is on the menu. The cliffhanger at the end would have made me upset but there is a sequel so I'm hoping everything will pick up somewhere along this ending.
I love a good romance! Jasper and David's love story had realistic challenges that many average couples face. For one to be well off financially and the other trying tirelessly to establish themselves in their career (which their family isn't super supportive of) and financially, the author does a great job of keeping the characters down to earth, thus keeping things relatable. I loved the suspense aspect with anticipating who was behind the sabotage! I will be looking for more from this author.
The Story started slow but builds up to a story line that will draw you in. Each of the 3 friends shared drama filled love lives that seem to sabotage what they are working so hard for. With a few catty, vengeful women thrown into the story to add just a little more drama this was a story I ended up enjoying and can’t wait to read what the next bend in the road has to offer these 3 friends.
I was definitely wondering who was sabotaging her the entire book, and the culprit took me by surprise. Overall it was a good read. It started off really good but slowed down a bit after that. Once it picked back up it never lost its momentum. I'm looking forward to the second installment
The couple in this story were well developed. The author took time to make them feel realistic. I am sure we all know someone like Jasper. Someone trying to find their way after loss and depression. I really was rooting for the couple in this story. Very much an emotional roller coaster. Looking forward to more from this author .
& sorry Justin, but you snooze, you lose: at least as far as Jay is concerned and at least I HOPE he loses. David seems like a nice enough guy, despite his poor taste in football teams. the ending looked like it was setting up a follow-up.
The storytelling started off slowly, but every time I turned the page, the story gained momentum. So many underlying situations going on and the mystery of sabotage was overwhelming.
The focus of this relationship is driving me mad, but I guess this imitates real life.
So many pieces if this puzzle still needs to be placed.
Audiobook 🎧: If you enjoy a story with multiple POV’s & multiple storylines then this is the book for you. This book has multiple characters were their stories will somehow still intertwine & reference back to the FMC & MMC.
I highly suggest reading the ebook or physical book.
This was a good read. The characters were very entertaining and made you come back looking for me. This is my first time reading this authors work, and I will definitely check out her catalog.
It started off slow, but after the first few chapters, I could put it down. The description is intense. Will definitely continue to read the series. Can't wait to see how this story unfolds.
Ooooh. I didn't see that coming!! These business owners try to navigate love, friendships, and family in this urban drama. Good read with enjoyable characters. Now let me go get part two!!
Just finished “Recipe for Disaster” by Montoya Epperson and I’m ready to spill the tea! This book dives deep into how past hurts can shape our future, hitting close to home with its relatable themes. While the beginning was a bit slow, the story quickly gained momentum with rich character development.
Let’s talk about Jasper and her crew—oh, they definitely need a cool clique nickname! Throughout the book, their dynamic kept me engaged and wanting more. And can we talk about that title? “Recipe for Disaster” screams excitement and intrigue, drawing you in from the get-go.
As the mystery of who’s sabotaging Jasper unfolds, I found myself on the edge of my seat, trying to piece it all together. And let me tell you, the culprit? Total plot twist! With plenty of intriguing subplots hinting at a sequel, I’m already counting down the days until the next installment.
Jasper and David are two broken people who lost everything because of love. Jasper is a successful caterer who is trying to build her brand by gaining a big contract with a successful business. Without the support of her parents and an old friend who seemed to be one step ahead of her attempting to sabotage her efforts, she is overwhelmed. David is a former heir to a billion-dollar corporation. who gave up his fortune for the love of the wrong woman. His father needs him back in the family business although his brothers are a bit reluctant. Jasper and David meet and fall in love, but their pasts and fears threaten to ruin their chance at happiness.
A RECIPE FOR DISASTER is a realistic and slow-burn romance. There is strong character development, and I like the element of suspense. The characters are flawed and broken but together Jasper and David can grow. Filled with conflict and drama that would cause anyone to want to give up, Jasper and David remain resilient and work towards receiving success. And the chemistry between them is smoldering. I recommend this book to others.
Really enjoyed this book and look forward to finding out how things work out in book two. David and Jasper's insecurities from previous relationships get in the way of the love the have for each other. David's family dynamic doesn't help matters as he tries to earn his families trust back.
Only downside to this was the descriptions of every single outfit for every character. A few descriptions would have been fine, especially for specific events. But every time a character entered a scene it wasn't necessary to know what they were wearing. A good developmental or line editor would have helped with that. Also, a good proof editor would have caught the grammatical errors. Freckles and Kim bring added drama to Jasper's already shaky world. But they are her girls and I love how they have each others backs no matter what.
All in all, this is still a good book that I would recommend. This is my first book by this author and I plan to read more.
Thank you to the author for this ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.