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Behind Her Eyes
All it takes is one cold lie to ruin the recipe for a perfect love…
Five years ago, Abi was in culinary school and dreaming of working at Adley’s, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and for its equally delectable owner. Instead, she’s alone, broke, and out of friendly couches to sleep on. Her only direction…rock bottom.
Abi’s in a mess, but it’s her mess, and she plans to fix it. She just doesn’t know how—until, huddled and shivering in a doorway across from Adley’s, she sees the beautiful owner drop her purse. And returning it reaps an unexpected reward.
Behind Victoria Adley’s cool public persona and power suits is a woman in turmoil, a victim of tabloid lies that have thrown her for a loop. Accused of having an affair with a female employee, her family has fallen apart and her business is suffering.
When Victoria offers temporary shelter to the homeless young woman who found and returned her dropped purse, she is irresistibly drawn to Abi’s kindness and warmth. Their instant attraction melts into something more, but they can’t pretend the real world doesn’t exist. While all the ingredients for a lasting love are there, putting them together isn’t so easy.
Because Victoria isn’t out.
And Abi can’t live a lie.
Five years ago, Abi was in culinary school and dreaming of working at Adley’s, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and for its equally delectable owner. Instead, she’s alone, broke, and out of friendly couches to sleep on. Her only direction…rock bottom.
Abi’s in a mess, but it’s her mess, and she plans to fix it. She just doesn’t know how—until, huddled and shivering in a doorway across from Adley’s, she sees the beautiful owner drop her purse. And returning it reaps an unexpected reward.
Behind Victoria Adley’s cool public persona and power suits is a woman in turmoil, a victim of tabloid lies that have thrown her for a loop. Accused of having an affair with a female employee, her family has fallen apart and her business is suffering.
When Victoria offers temporary shelter to the homeless young woman who found and returned her dropped purse, she is irresistibly drawn to Abi’s kindness and warmth. Their instant attraction melts into something more, but they can’t pretend the real world doesn’t exist. While all the ingredients for a lasting love are there, putting them together isn’t so easy.
Because Victoria isn’t out.
And Abi can’t live a lie.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2022
247 people are currently reading
1009 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Tereze
40 books756 followersMelissa Tereze is a best-selling author living in Liverpool, UK, with her fiancée and Golden Retriever. She holds a degree in Sports Development, and when she’s not writing, she can be found at a local bar singing one of her favourite tracks.
You can contact Melissa through her social media and her website.
You can contact Melissa through her social media and her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
May 12, 2022
An unlikely couple.
I realise Melissa Tereze's writing style is rather unique in the sense that the relationship refusal part of the stories is distinctively heavy and prolonged because the characters tend to have a persistent lack of self-worth. For this reason, I think her books aren't for everybody as this may be frustrating for some. But I'm a huge fan because I like that Tereze has a tendency to create sizzling chemistry between the most unlikely of couples, and the steamy scenes are a bonus.
This Kindle Unlimited book is an age-gap romance between Victoria, a successful restaurateur and Abi, a homeless woman she picks up on the streets and opens her home to. I thought that was odd and a tad unbelievable, but it didn't feel weird eventually because both women are so likable, it was hard not to root for them. Both women are also at their lowest points in life where they seem to find comfort and support with each other and that was really nice to read. And a positive difference, I realise, is that the timeline of the relationship conflict is pushed a bit forward so there's more romance and love after the conflict resolution to enjoy.
Tereze has once again produced a book that's right up my alley. Can't wait for her next book!
I realise Melissa Tereze's writing style is rather unique in the sense that the relationship refusal part of the stories is distinctively heavy and prolonged because the characters tend to have a persistent lack of self-worth. For this reason, I think her books aren't for everybody as this may be frustrating for some. But I'm a huge fan because I like that Tereze has a tendency to create sizzling chemistry between the most unlikely of couples, and the steamy scenes are a bonus.
This Kindle Unlimited book is an age-gap romance between Victoria, a successful restaurateur and Abi, a homeless woman she picks up on the streets and opens her home to. I thought that was odd and a tad unbelievable, but it didn't feel weird eventually because both women are so likable, it was hard not to root for them. Both women are also at their lowest points in life where they seem to find comfort and support with each other and that was really nice to read. And a positive difference, I realise, is that the timeline of the relationship conflict is pushed a bit forward so there's more romance and love after the conflict resolution to enjoy.
Tereze has once again produced a book that's right up my alley. Can't wait for her next book!
March 26, 2022
I'm a sucker for age-gap stories and for me Melissa Tereze is one of the best in writing them. And omg what a wonderful story she gifted us once more with it. It contains everything she is famous for. Of course there is angst, but there are also so many other feelings. There is so much love and chemistry between the characters. It's also about trust, betrayal and did I already mention the chemistry? And I have to say, maybe don't read this story during your break at work. 🔥 Because first of all others may ask you, why your face turned red and why you're glowing. 🥵 And it will lead to you not wanting to go back to work. Once more I totally blame Melissa for that. She just knows how to draw you in a story and that's one of the things I love so much about her writing.
I think I maybe should tell something about the characters and the story. Personally I loved both, Abi and Victoria. Even if my heart beat a bit more for Victoria. Her kindness, strength and just her whole personality is just wow. Even if she is being blackmailed by an ex-employee and went through a lot she still takes Abi home and lets her stay without any condition. Because this is just how Victoria is, no matter how rich she is, she never forgot from where she came from.
Abi sweet Abi on the other hand was enamoured by Victoria before she even met her. Victoria is also an idol for her and Abi can't believe her luck, when she is allowed to live with her. The pull between them and their longing was just incredible. And when they finally give in it's like fireworks went off. Again don't read at work or in public. And if you do, don't say I didn't warn you.
Of course like I already mentioned there is also angst because this is Melissa. And I have to say she actually totally surprised. I was waiting for the shoe to drop, but then things turned out differently than I thought. I won't say more, then I don't wanna give any spoilers. What I’m going to say is that I love when an author is able to surprise me in this way. And there is also a second time later in the book where I was surprised again about the outcome of a conversation. Surprises like that drfini keep me on my toes. LOL
When I got to the end of the book I needed a moment to collect myself, because I went through so many feelings with the characters. I cried, smiled and felt so much more (like being hot 🤣). And once more I totally blame Melissa. LOL I just adore her and her books and can't wait for the next one. Thank god there will be more by her soon. 😊
I think I maybe should tell something about the characters and the story. Personally I loved both, Abi and Victoria. Even if my heart beat a bit more for Victoria. Her kindness, strength and just her whole personality is just wow. Even if she is being blackmailed by an ex-employee and went through a lot she still takes Abi home and lets her stay without any condition. Because this is just how Victoria is, no matter how rich she is, she never forgot from where she came from.
Abi sweet Abi on the other hand was enamoured by Victoria before she even met her. Victoria is also an idol for her and Abi can't believe her luck, when she is allowed to live with her. The pull between them and their longing was just incredible. And when they finally give in it's like fireworks went off. Again don't read at work or in public. And if you do, don't say I didn't warn you.
Of course like I already mentioned there is also angst because this is Melissa. And I have to say she actually totally surprised. I was waiting for the shoe to drop, but then things turned out differently than I thought. I won't say more, then I don't wanna give any spoilers. What I’m going to say is that I love when an author is able to surprise me in this way. And there is also a second time later in the book where I was surprised again about the outcome of a conversation. Surprises like that drfini keep me on my toes. LOL
When I got to the end of the book I needed a moment to collect myself, because I went through so many feelings with the characters. I cried, smiled and felt so much more (like being hot 🤣). And once more I totally blame Melissa. LOL I just adore her and her books and can't wait for the next one. Thank god there will be more by her soon. 😊
April 16, 2022
3.95 Stars - Kindle Unlimited
I have a love/hate (maybe hate is too strong a term) with this author's books. I tend to love the plots and most times find the execution annoying. Often the MCs go through a period of lots of internal angst about how much the love the other one but that they are unworthy of her. An extreme example of this is Mrs Middleton. The pining was exquisite up to a point and then just got to be too much. The book I read right before this one At First Glance barely had any (and this is by far my favorite book by Ms Tereze) and I loved this book from first page to last.
This book comes in somewhere in between. I did get to a point were I was like "oh no. no no no." HOWEVER. There is a big blow up - totally understandable - and then the angst is resolved and it happens early enough in the story that you really get to enjoy the last 20% of the book with them being happy and facing the external drama together and it was absolutely lovely and super enjoyable to read.
I really liked both characters, like A LOT. Abi is a sweetheart and Victoria is lovely and generous. Their chemistry is smokin' and the s*x scenes are very hot and well done.
I would rank this as my 2nd favorite Melissa Tereze book and would recommend it to anyone that finds the blurb interesting.
I have a love/hate (maybe hate is too strong a term) with this author's books. I tend to love the plots and most times find the execution annoying. Often the MCs go through a period of lots of internal angst about how much the love the other one but that they are unworthy of her. An extreme example of this is Mrs Middleton. The pining was exquisite up to a point and then just got to be too much. The book I read right before this one At First Glance barely had any (and this is by far my favorite book by Ms Tereze) and I loved this book from first page to last.
This book comes in somewhere in between. I did get to a point were I was like "oh no. no no no." HOWEVER. There is a big blow up - totally understandable - and then the angst is resolved and it happens early enough in the story that you really get to enjoy the last 20% of the book with them being happy and facing the external drama together and it was absolutely lovely and super enjoyable to read.
I really liked both characters, like A LOT. Abi is a sweetheart and Victoria is lovely and generous. Their chemistry is smokin' and the s*x scenes are very hot and well done.
I would rank this as my 2nd favorite Melissa Tereze book and would recommend it to anyone that finds the blurb interesting.
October 5, 2022
I‘m a huge fan of Melissa Terezes writing. The MC Abi and Vic are very lovably characters and perfect together. At first glance Abi and Vic have nothing in common but as the story progresses we learn that‘s not true.
For me the story had the right amount of angst and romance. Highly recommend.
For me the story had the right amount of angst and romance. Highly recommend.
April 5, 2023
This was HOT!
Also, It’s nice to see a successful business woman who isn’t portrayed as an ice queen for a change.
Also, It’s nice to see a successful business woman who isn’t portrayed as an ice queen for a change.
March 20, 2022
• Behind her eyes
• Melissa Tereze
• Age-Gap
• MC Victoria & Abi
Abi is down on her luck. She lost her apartment, job and is short on friends. Culinary school seems like a lifetime away, when things were going well for Abi.
Victoria has a successful restaurant. Behind the scenes, her life is in pure shambles. A former employee, sold a story packed with lies, to a tabloid. Leaving Victoria to try to clean up the mess with her husband, daughter and her restaurant.
Abi finds herself at the right place at the right time, as she is outside of Victoria’s restaurant and sees her drop her purse. She returns the purse to Victoria. Later when Victoria sees Abi outside in the rain she takes pity on her. This one night changes both of my their lives.
Victoria is really going through it in this book. The scandal has taken over her life. People who she thought she could trust, turn out to be enemies hiding in her camp. She has a feeling who is behind it all, but she has to be able to prove it. Money and greed play a big part in this story.
Victoria comes along and saves Abi from her current situation but Abi ends up and saving her as well. They both open up each other’s eyes.
I really loved this book.There are a few twists and turns, that I don’t want to give away. The relationship between Abi and Victoria is caring, tender and passionate. The go through highs and lows and support each other.
I highly recommend this age-gap love story. It really hits home that you can raise above life’s obstacles, with love and some hot passion mixed it. I would like to Thank the Author for an Advanced copy of the book.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Melissa Tereze
• Age-Gap
• MC Victoria & Abi
Abi is down on her luck. She lost her apartment, job and is short on friends. Culinary school seems like a lifetime away, when things were going well for Abi.
Victoria has a successful restaurant. Behind the scenes, her life is in pure shambles. A former employee, sold a story packed with lies, to a tabloid. Leaving Victoria to try to clean up the mess with her husband, daughter and her restaurant.
Abi finds herself at the right place at the right time, as she is outside of Victoria’s restaurant and sees her drop her purse. She returns the purse to Victoria. Later when Victoria sees Abi outside in the rain she takes pity on her. This one night changes both of my their lives.
Victoria is really going through it in this book. The scandal has taken over her life. People who she thought she could trust, turn out to be enemies hiding in her camp. She has a feeling who is behind it all, but she has to be able to prove it. Money and greed play a big part in this story.
Victoria comes along and saves Abi from her current situation but Abi ends up and saving her as well. They both open up each other’s eyes.
I really loved this book.There are a few twists and turns, that I don’t want to give away. The relationship between Abi and Victoria is caring, tender and passionate. The go through highs and lows and support each other.
I highly recommend this age-gap love story. It really hits home that you can raise above life’s obstacles, with love and some hot passion mixed it. I would like to Thank the Author for an Advanced copy of the book.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 5, 2023
Well..Well..Well..I hardly put it down.
March 23, 2022
My rating: 4.75
ARC received from the author in return for an honest review.
The great: Tereze has a way of taking a situation that is so wrong and making it beautiful (and hot🔥❤️🔥) because the characters are so likeable. I love Victoria, the older and successful businesswoman who rocks a power suit and seems like she’s got it all, but actually is a very lonely person with so much love to give and nowhere to give it. Abi starts off in a bad situation, but her strength and cheerfulness make the love story believable (and did I mention hot?).
The conflict: Victoria has enemies and she’s been targeted by a former employee with blackmail that turned into a media circus. She’s also not out for a lot of reasons and her relationship with her daughter is in the toilet. All of these drive a wedge between her and living an honest and happy life with Abi. It just seems like the deck is completely stacked against them, but seeing how the two of them communicate and support each other made their love story wonderful and sweet until…
The black moment: This hits fairly early in the book and triggers a complete breakdown of the relationship in a matter of seconds. There are lots of ways this situation could break them up, but the way it was done here seems forced and over the top. This is followed by months of them not calling each other back, ignoring letters, voicemails and whatnot. It got to the point where only a huge, sweeping gesture would fix things.
The redeeming feature: The ending is lovely and an unexpected ally made it even better. Yes, some issues remain unsolved, but overall Justice has been served. I was cheering for Victoria and Abi and I was not disappointed. Victoria turns out to be a total badass who made me do that fainting thing like: ooohh❤️🔥🔥🔥
Final thoughts: The story is compelling and kept me turning pages (nearly missing my train stop a few times) until the very end. The black moment tarnished Abi’s character for me for a short while, but she proves herself in the end. The sex scenes are hot and varied, some of them (*cough*the chocolate fondue scene*cough*) should NOT be read in public! I was squirming!!
Recommended if you like a hot and sweet read with a few bumps along the way.
ARC received from the author in return for an honest review.
The great: Tereze has a way of taking a situation that is so wrong and making it beautiful (and hot🔥❤️🔥) because the characters are so likeable. I love Victoria, the older and successful businesswoman who rocks a power suit and seems like she’s got it all, but actually is a very lonely person with so much love to give and nowhere to give it. Abi starts off in a bad situation, but her strength and cheerfulness make the love story believable (and did I mention hot?).
The conflict: Victoria has enemies and she’s been targeted by a former employee with blackmail that turned into a media circus. She’s also not out for a lot of reasons and her relationship with her daughter is in the toilet. All of these drive a wedge between her and living an honest and happy life with Abi. It just seems like the deck is completely stacked against them, but seeing how the two of them communicate and support each other made their love story wonderful and sweet until…
The black moment: This hits fairly early in the book and triggers a complete breakdown of the relationship in a matter of seconds. There are lots of ways this situation could break them up, but the way it was done here seems forced and over the top. This is followed by months of them not calling each other back, ignoring letters, voicemails and whatnot. It got to the point where only a huge, sweeping gesture would fix things.
The redeeming feature: The ending is lovely and an unexpected ally made it even better. Yes, some issues remain unsolved, but overall Justice has been served. I was cheering for Victoria and Abi and I was not disappointed. Victoria turns out to be a total badass who made me do that fainting thing like: ooohh❤️🔥🔥🔥
Final thoughts: The story is compelling and kept me turning pages (nearly missing my train stop a few times) until the very end. The black moment tarnished Abi’s character for me for a short while, but she proves herself in the end. The sex scenes are hot and varied, some of them (*cough*the chocolate fondue scene*cough*) should NOT be read in public! I was squirming!!
Recommended if you like a hot and sweet read with a few bumps along the way.
June 20, 2022
I got a little past half way and just couldn’t take it anymore. Everything felt super forced, really fast, and overly dramatic.
September 3, 2024
Don't we love an overcome kind of story? This story showed that everyone regardless has a challenging life and sometimes saviours can soon be those saved. Enjoyable, romantic read
August 24, 2022
An incredible romance between a homeless woman and a female mogul. It’s just a dreamy tale of a big love waiting just behind the corner.
The age difference makes the romance practically impossible, notwithstanding how unlikely it is. However, Melissa Tereze's writing is so effortlessly done that I found it impossible to take my eyes off Abi and Victoria. Tereze's writing is excellent since it beautifully captures all the emotions in every little detail. The reader never gets bored even if they are lengthy and intense. She merely guides us to the characters' most introspective ideas.
I’ve always valued Tereze’s age-gap stories. She is outstanding! I like the cover choice this time as well; it’s luscious and perfectly reflects the mood the reader achieves after reading this.
The age difference makes the romance practically impossible, notwithstanding how unlikely it is. However, Melissa Tereze's writing is so effortlessly done that I found it impossible to take my eyes off Abi and Victoria. Tereze's writing is excellent since it beautifully captures all the emotions in every little detail. The reader never gets bored even if they are lengthy and intense. She merely guides us to the characters' most introspective ideas.
I’ve always valued Tereze’s age-gap stories. She is outstanding! I like the cover choice this time as well; it’s luscious and perfectly reflects the mood the reader achieves after reading this.
March 28, 2022
Melissa Tereze did not disappoint with this amazing age-gap romance. It had a bit of everything, but I gotta say, the steamy moments were very steamy and the chemistry between the characters was off the charts!!
The only reason I’m not giving 5* is because when the drama happened, it made me roll my eyes when Victoria was the one wanting to apologize and talk to Abi when Abi was the one in the wrong… it made no sense to me. Abi was the one at fault, period. But anyways, that’s just my opinion lol but other than that, I enjoyed this book a lot! Can’t wait to read more books from this author 🥰
The only reason I’m not giving 5* is because when the drama happened, it made me roll my eyes when Victoria was the one wanting to apologize and talk to Abi when Abi was the one in the wrong… it made no sense to me. Abi was the one at fault, period. But anyways, that’s just my opinion lol but other than that, I enjoyed this book a lot! Can’t wait to read more books from this author 🥰
March 22, 2022
Successful restaurateur/hotelier Victoria Adley finds herself trapped in a vicious cycle of social media attacks, mud raking publicity, a failed marriage and faltering business empire.
For years, Abi Grant dreamt of becoming a chef and eventually working at the Michelin starred restaurant Adley. The dream of chef school dashed, she's been sofa surfing at friends, life spiraling downward with no where to turn. Faced with the prospect of looking for a homeless shelter for the night, Abi is huddled in a doorway opposite the very restaurant of her dreams and thinking back on how/why she got to that point in her life.
Fate works in mysterious ways and a spontaneous act of returning a dropped walled results in Victoria and Abi meeting. That act subsequently reciprocated brings Ari (proud but down on her luck) into Victoria's privileged (but tarnished) sphere staying in her guesthouse until better days prevail. Soon Ari, culinary talents eventually exposed, finds new footing as sous chef at Adleys. Time passes and both women recognize each other's warmth and a mutual attraction but with constant breaking scandals and pressure is anything real possible? Who is behind the lies and negative publicity and why? A family facade torn apart, what is truth and what is not!
No more details, I encourage you to become immersed in Ms. Tereze's latest romance with solidly written supporting characters, angst, greed, lies, lots of heat and a HEA.
Highly recommend.
For years, Abi Grant dreamt of becoming a chef and eventually working at the Michelin starred restaurant Adley. The dream of chef school dashed, she's been sofa surfing at friends, life spiraling downward with no where to turn. Faced with the prospect of looking for a homeless shelter for the night, Abi is huddled in a doorway opposite the very restaurant of her dreams and thinking back on how/why she got to that point in her life.
Fate works in mysterious ways and a spontaneous act of returning a dropped walled results in Victoria and Abi meeting. That act subsequently reciprocated brings Ari (proud but down on her luck) into Victoria's privileged (but tarnished) sphere staying in her guesthouse until better days prevail. Soon Ari, culinary talents eventually exposed, finds new footing as sous chef at Adleys. Time passes and both women recognize each other's warmth and a mutual attraction but with constant breaking scandals and pressure is anything real possible? Who is behind the lies and negative publicity and why? A family facade torn apart, what is truth and what is not!
No more details, I encourage you to become immersed in Ms. Tereze's latest romance with solidly written supporting characters, angst, greed, lies, lots of heat and a HEA.
Highly recommend.
February 23, 2023
I'm such a junkie for Melissa Tereze's book. God! I love her writing and loved this one.
Look, this book won't be everyone's taste because there's a lot of back and forth and it can be tiring but the story was good, the characters were awesome, the angst was very well distributed.
Look, this book won't be everyone's taste because there's a lot of back and forth and it can be tiring but the story was good, the characters were awesome, the angst was very well distributed.
August 23, 2022
When "communication" can just be too much...
Soooo much talking.
There are many reviewers in the wlw field who get a little worked up about the mythical 'third-act miscommunication' problem. Personally, I don't think it's a problem, I think it's a reasonably accurate reflection of real life. After all, if everyone communicated everything perfectly all the time, would there even be anything to write about? BUT... here we have a story where the communication goes totally overboard. All this pair do is talk - and, incredibly, fail to sort things out so they then have to run away from each other, which of course leads to... more talking as soon as they're back together. It got a bit silly after a while.
And something I think quite a few authors need to consider is that not every word of the conversation is necessary. Give an impression of a conversation, not a blow-by-blow account. We don't expect a minute-by-minute reflection of a character's day - we don't want to know that they climbed out of bed, brushed their teeth, made the bed, etc - and, of course, most authors don't do this. But in the same way, give us the essense of the conversation, not the boring details.
If it had been half as long it would have been a better book.
Soooo much talking.
There are many reviewers in the wlw field who get a little worked up about the mythical 'third-act miscommunication' problem. Personally, I don't think it's a problem, I think it's a reasonably accurate reflection of real life. After all, if everyone communicated everything perfectly all the time, would there even be anything to write about? BUT... here we have a story where the communication goes totally overboard. All this pair do is talk - and, incredibly, fail to sort things out so they then have to run away from each other, which of course leads to... more talking as soon as they're back together. It got a bit silly after a while.
And something I think quite a few authors need to consider is that not every word of the conversation is necessary. Give an impression of a conversation, not a blow-by-blow account. We don't expect a minute-by-minute reflection of a character's day - we don't want to know that they climbed out of bed, brushed their teeth, made the bed, etc - and, of course, most authors don't do this. But in the same way, give us the essense of the conversation, not the boring details.
If it had been half as long it would have been a better book.
March 28, 2022
Things are not going well for Abi. She has nowhere to go and ends up across from the restaurant she has always dreamed of working at. Victoria, seemingly has it all. She owns her own restaurant, Adley's and has more money than she could ever spend. When Victoria drops her purse and Abi returns it to her, she's so grateful she lets the down on her luck woman stay at her guesthouse. A chance meeting ends up changing both of the women's lives forever.
Melissa Tereze does a phenomenal job of writing age gap romances, but she also excels at bringing two people from different economic backgrounds together who seemingly have nothing in common. Abi and Victoria are another one of those couples who shouldn't work, yet they do. Professionally, Victoria, is one of the most famous and successful chefs in England but her personal life is a dumpster fire. Her marriage is over, and her daughter isn't speaking to her based solely on a rumor spread by an ex-employee. Abi may be financially down on her luck but Victoria is just as lost. Victoria may think she's the one helping Abi, however, she soon realizes that Abi is the one helping her. Abi helps her to laugh again and to feel alive just by being there for her to talk to.
I really like this book and these characters. Abi is sweet and so smitten with Victoria, before she's ever met her. She realizes how much more there is to Victoria than just her beauty and success. They really get to know each other and find that they are more alike than either could have imagined. I adore Abi but I'm a bit in love with Victoria. I can't imagine inviting a stranger to live in my guest house. Actually, I can't imagine inviting most of the people I know to invade my space. Victoria has such a beautiful heart and doesn't give it a second thought. You can call it a good deed or you can call it destiny. Whatever, you call it, you won't want to miss out on another fabulous read from Melissa Tereze.
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
Melissa Tereze does a phenomenal job of writing age gap romances, but she also excels at bringing two people from different economic backgrounds together who seemingly have nothing in common. Abi and Victoria are another one of those couples who shouldn't work, yet they do. Professionally, Victoria, is one of the most famous and successful chefs in England but her personal life is a dumpster fire. Her marriage is over, and her daughter isn't speaking to her based solely on a rumor spread by an ex-employee. Abi may be financially down on her luck but Victoria is just as lost. Victoria may think she's the one helping Abi, however, she soon realizes that Abi is the one helping her. Abi helps her to laugh again and to feel alive just by being there for her to talk to.
I really like this book and these characters. Abi is sweet and so smitten with Victoria, before she's ever met her. She realizes how much more there is to Victoria than just her beauty and success. They really get to know each other and find that they are more alike than either could have imagined. I adore Abi but I'm a bit in love with Victoria. I can't imagine inviting a stranger to live in my guest house. Actually, I can't imagine inviting most of the people I know to invade my space. Victoria has such a beautiful heart and doesn't give it a second thought. You can call it a good deed or you can call it destiny. Whatever, you call it, you won't want to miss out on another fabulous read from Melissa Tereze.
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
June 21, 2023
Beautiful!
Abi finds herself unexpectedly in the company of Victoria Adley, who owns a Michelin-starred restaurant she has always dreamed of working in. Victoria can’t help but be drawn to Abi and starts falling for her, but with tabloid rumours and lies surrounding an incident with an employee, she is worried what will happen if she and Abi explore their attraction further and the wider world become privy to their private life.
A fantastic story, reminding us that no matter who you are there is opportunity for kindness in this world, whether it is you being kind to someone in need, or kindness finding you in a moment of need. I loved how fate connected Abi and Victoria by chance, and then the fact they were both full of goodness meant they could help one another. Victoria was more than generous, and Abi was super lucky their paths had crossed. Abi’s position broke my heart at first and I was so glad she managed to find support and shelter with Victoria, who stereotypes teach would be the last person to help.
There was a great balance, as there always is in Melissa’s stories, of drama, emotion, romance, and steamier moments to build an experience to really immerse you in the story. The descriptions were vibrant, painting clear pictures of all the luxury in Victoria’s life but reminding that despite all she had, it wasn’t enough to make her happy. Abi became a great support to Victoria too, a reminder that she didn’t have to be frightened and that they could truly find happiness. It was great to steal those moments with them though, where the rest of the world just didn’t exist and they were just being themselves.
A great story with fantastic characters I hope we’ll get future stories about! Really enjoyed every second of it and cannot recommend it enough.
Abi finds herself unexpectedly in the company of Victoria Adley, who owns a Michelin-starred restaurant she has always dreamed of working in. Victoria can’t help but be drawn to Abi and starts falling for her, but with tabloid rumours and lies surrounding an incident with an employee, she is worried what will happen if she and Abi explore their attraction further and the wider world become privy to their private life.
A fantastic story, reminding us that no matter who you are there is opportunity for kindness in this world, whether it is you being kind to someone in need, or kindness finding you in a moment of need. I loved how fate connected Abi and Victoria by chance, and then the fact they were both full of goodness meant they could help one another. Victoria was more than generous, and Abi was super lucky their paths had crossed. Abi’s position broke my heart at first and I was so glad she managed to find support and shelter with Victoria, who stereotypes teach would be the last person to help.
There was a great balance, as there always is in Melissa’s stories, of drama, emotion, romance, and steamier moments to build an experience to really immerse you in the story. The descriptions were vibrant, painting clear pictures of all the luxury in Victoria’s life but reminding that despite all she had, it wasn’t enough to make her happy. Abi became a great support to Victoria too, a reminder that she didn’t have to be frightened and that they could truly find happiness. It was great to steal those moments with them though, where the rest of the world just didn’t exist and they were just being themselves.
A great story with fantastic characters I hope we’ll get future stories about! Really enjoyed every second of it and cannot recommend it enough.
March 22, 2022
Brilliant
Yet another fabulous book by Ms Tereze. This author never disappoints with her great storylines. plot building and a HEA.
This is the story of Abi, who used to be in culinary school, but is now down on her luck and homeless. She sees Victoria drop her purse and in returning to her, Victoria offers her shelter. By the end its Abi who sort of saves Victoria. Really enjoyed this book, would highly recommend,
Yet another fabulous book by Ms Tereze. This author never disappoints with her great storylines. plot building and a HEA.
This is the story of Abi, who used to be in culinary school, but is now down on her luck and homeless. She sees Victoria drop her purse and in returning to her, Victoria offers her shelter. By the end its Abi who sort of saves Victoria. Really enjoyed this book, would highly recommend,
March 31, 2022
What can I say? I just love this book!
March 14, 2024
Behind Her Eyes - I had to redo my review.
This is an updated review as my first one did not do justice to both the book and author.
The brillant, queen of age-gap Melissa Tereze has written another fabulous story that you will want to devour. From beginning to end, you will be on an emotional rollercoaster. As we follow the MCs, whose lives are at rock bottom for different reasons, we see instant chemistry and the yearning both have for something better. The chemistry starts stong and continues to imflate. Tereze writes such incredible characters that are flawed, but willing to do the work to improve themselves and their situation. Even as they grow stronger, there are bumps in the road, but they continue to find strength in each other.
There are some beautiful, steamy scenes that may have you salivating. Actually, one of them is in my top 5 of all intimate moments.
I call Tereze the Queen of age-gap because she blends her MCs flawlessly that you cant help to see that the couple was made for each other, and there are no goofs that would mske you see the apparent age difference.
Behind Her Eyes is a work of art that I could not put down and have read several times since its release. I consider it one of my favorites. As always, I will continue to follow her and be ready to consume her next release.
This is an updated review as my first one did not do justice to both the book and author.
The brillant, queen of age-gap Melissa Tereze has written another fabulous story that you will want to devour. From beginning to end, you will be on an emotional rollercoaster. As we follow the MCs, whose lives are at rock bottom for different reasons, we see instant chemistry and the yearning both have for something better. The chemistry starts stong and continues to imflate. Tereze writes such incredible characters that are flawed, but willing to do the work to improve themselves and their situation. Even as they grow stronger, there are bumps in the road, but they continue to find strength in each other.
There are some beautiful, steamy scenes that may have you salivating. Actually, one of them is in my top 5 of all intimate moments.
I call Tereze the Queen of age-gap because she blends her MCs flawlessly that you cant help to see that the couple was made for each other, and there are no goofs that would mske you see the apparent age difference.
Behind Her Eyes is a work of art that I could not put down and have read several times since its release. I consider it one of my favorites. As always, I will continue to follow her and be ready to consume her next release.
July 15, 2022
I really wanted to like this book, but it was frustrating. The chemistry was there, and the romance was fun. There was just too much insecurity on the part of each character. And the tendency to immediately run when something goes wrong between them got old early on. I enjoyed it as a story overall, but I guess it was just not my favorite.
March 22, 2022
The Queen of Romangst has done it again!
I don't know how many times I've thought:
"Oh no, why?" and shortly after that:“ Oh thank god, yes!"
only to end up with "Oh No, come on" again!
Victoria and Abi's story is a rich girl meets poor but talented girl story.
Victoria's life is full of lies, problems and intrigues.
She may be rich, famous and successful, but that is exactly what is her undoing in her life right now.
She's an unhappy woman who, to make matters worse, hasn't come out yet.
She just longs for a woman who doesn't care about her money or fame and most of all someone who believes her.
Abi has reached the abyss of her current life.
She desperately needs to leave her friend's couch as she no longer wants to be a burden to her friends.
So without a place to live, a job or money, she ends up on the streets.
A coincidence brings the two together and the up and down ride begins.
If you like drama and angst paired with sweet romance and very hot scenes, you've come to the right place.
The two have flaming hot chemistry.
I absolutely love Melissa Tereze books and this is a great one.
Definitely not an easy way for the MC's but always a hot one and with a great happy ending!
I don't know how many times I've thought:
"Oh no, why?" and shortly after that:“ Oh thank god, yes!"
only to end up with "Oh No, come on" again!
Victoria and Abi's story is a rich girl meets poor but talented girl story.
Victoria's life is full of lies, problems and intrigues.
She may be rich, famous and successful, but that is exactly what is her undoing in her life right now.
She's an unhappy woman who, to make matters worse, hasn't come out yet.
She just longs for a woman who doesn't care about her money or fame and most of all someone who believes her.
Abi has reached the abyss of her current life.
She desperately needs to leave her friend's couch as she no longer wants to be a burden to her friends.
So without a place to live, a job or money, she ends up on the streets.
A coincidence brings the two together and the up and down ride begins.
If you like drama and angst paired with sweet romance and very hot scenes, you've come to the right place.
The two have flaming hot chemistry.
I absolutely love Melissa Tereze books and this is a great one.
Definitely not an easy way for the MC's but always a hot one and with a great happy ending!
March 23, 2022
Abi and Victoria have moved in to my top 5 couples. And this is now my favorite Melissa book. The chemistry between them is a living thing. I could just see and feel it. I didn't worry about the angst. Because they just belong together. There is some age gap. Also my favorite. Definitely rich girl poor girl. Abi has had some hard times, but she just gets back up. Victoria is a determined business woman, who's ex tries to knock her down. Not his smartest move. But adds much to the story. Just go get the book. But make sure you have time to finish what you start. I did get an ARC, but this is my opinion.
March 25, 2022
Amazing
Another page turner from Melissa Tereze, the story of Victoria and Abi is everything you could hope for. Two women who struggle for very different reasons find the way to trust, friendship and ultimately love. Oh, and good food.
Another page turner from Melissa Tereze, the story of Victoria and Abi is everything you could hope for. Two women who struggle for very different reasons find the way to trust, friendship and ultimately love. Oh, and good food.
April 26, 2022
Good indeed
The drama was crazy and I still wanted more. Those evils should have paid. But yeah, it was a good read. I really enjoyed it.
The drama was crazy and I still wanted more. Those evils should have paid. But yeah, it was a good read. I really enjoyed it.
November 29, 2024
Good
It has a good plot and some hot spots. The characters are well written, and I love a good age gap read.
It has a good plot and some hot spots. The characters are well written, and I love a good age gap read.
June 11, 2022
Too long
Very repetitive and towards the end started dropping the F bomb. Story could have been much better without the constant back and forth between the main characters
Very repetitive and towards the end started dropping the F bomb. Story could have been much better without the constant back and forth between the main characters
July 2, 2023
Yawn.
The plot skeleton had potential: Good Samaritan restaurateur rescues woman on the street; it just so happens that the homeless woman is a talented chef who’s lifelong vision has been to work in the Samaritan's restaurant.
Then there’s the execution. Dreadful. Boring. Derivative. Dragged out. Amateurishly written.
Both women are made of cardboard. They are perfect human beings – generous and loving and wonderful to a fault -- who’ve had bad things happen to them through no faults of their own. There’s oodles and oodles of angst. And endless, repetitive talking at us about how much they are attracted to each other but how fearful they are of getting involved. The same thing over and over again.
There are plot holes big enough to drive a semi truck through, which makes it hard to suspend disbelief. The restaurant owner has a public identity as a married heterosexual. At the outset, it seems like she and her husband had an amicable split. Then we find out that he’s viciously sabotaging her. But does she pick up the phone and call him to talk about it, negotiate a resolution? No. Does she hire an attorney, when his campaign leads to tabloid media libels that are destroying her successful restaurant empire? No. Is the reader told why not? No. It makes no sense.
The writing itself reads like a random hodgepodge culled from fanfic. The tell is the smirks and quirks. I found myself back to counting them: 17 smirks, 12 quirks. Not a record-holder by any means, but still. Such annoyingly lazy use of language. I don’t think Tereze even knows what the word “smirk” means. It’s got a connotation of being smug or conceited, traits that I don’t think she’s trying to convey for either of these two perfect women.
Even the sex scenes. Tons of interminable talking. Inane statements like “This [wetness] is all for me?” (Um. Who else would it be “for”?) And, “Come for me.” (Which both women say, in different scenes)
I’ve got this bad habit of not quitting books when I realize they're ultra-boring and predictable. I keep thinking they’ll get better. I made it all the way to the 80% point on this one. By then I could see how Tereze was going to wrap it all up with a neat bow on top, so I finally decided I didn't need to force myself to stay with it for confirmation's sake alone.
Such a high rating this book has. I don't get it.
Sigh.
The plot skeleton had potential: Good Samaritan restaurateur rescues woman on the street; it just so happens that the homeless woman is a talented chef who’s lifelong vision has been to work in the Samaritan's restaurant.
Then there’s the execution. Dreadful. Boring. Derivative. Dragged out. Amateurishly written.
Both women are made of cardboard. They are perfect human beings – generous and loving and wonderful to a fault -- who’ve had bad things happen to them through no faults of their own. There’s oodles and oodles of angst. And endless, repetitive talking at us about how much they are attracted to each other but how fearful they are of getting involved. The same thing over and over again.
There are plot holes big enough to drive a semi truck through, which makes it hard to suspend disbelief. The restaurant owner has a public identity as a married heterosexual. At the outset, it seems like she and her husband had an amicable split. Then we find out that he’s viciously sabotaging her. But does she pick up the phone and call him to talk about it, negotiate a resolution? No. Does she hire an attorney, when his campaign leads to tabloid media libels that are destroying her successful restaurant empire? No. Is the reader told why not? No. It makes no sense.
The writing itself reads like a random hodgepodge culled from fanfic. The tell is the smirks and quirks. I found myself back to counting them: 17 smirks, 12 quirks. Not a record-holder by any means, but still. Such annoyingly lazy use of language. I don’t think Tereze even knows what the word “smirk” means. It’s got a connotation of being smug or conceited, traits that I don’t think she’s trying to convey for either of these two perfect women.
Even the sex scenes. Tons of interminable talking. Inane statements like “This [wetness] is all for me?” (Um. Who else would it be “for”?) And, “Come for me.” (Which both women say, in different scenes)
I’ve got this bad habit of not quitting books when I realize they're ultra-boring and predictable. I keep thinking they’ll get better. I made it all the way to the 80% point on this one. By then I could see how Tereze was going to wrap it all up with a neat bow on top, so I finally decided I didn't need to force myself to stay with it for confirmation's sake alone.
Such a high rating this book has. I don't get it.
Sigh.
April 1, 2022
Melissa Tereze doesn’t disappoint…EVER! This book is another hit. Melissa literally has a way with words they catch your attention and never let go and even after the book is finished, you can’t help but wish for more. I don’t think she could write a long enough book for me to get “The Melissa Tereze Fix”, I mean this sincerely. Ms. Melissa is one of the best, if not the best author of age-gap romances in the lesfic community.
Her story, Behind Her Eyes is another one I couldn’t put down. It is about Abi and Victoria. Abi is down on her luck, homeless and unemployed – the situation doesn’t get any more dire than that. Even though Abi is beyond broke, she still does the right thing when she sees Victoria Adley unknowingly drop her purse. Victoria looks like life is treating her well, she’s successful, smart and beautiful - she has her own secrets. Her life seems to be engulfed with gossip and drama, all of which is not her doing. Victoria looks like she has it all, some people want to see her implode and lose everything. Abi has lost the most, and yet she finds she still has lots to give. The connection they share as they become friends, sets a lovely foundation of what’s to come. The story moves along at a great pace. The secondary characters are woven in well. You get a sense of who Abi and Victoria are as individuals and together as friends, then as a couple. The progression of their relationship is realistic which I appreciate. Their concerns are what I think most would feel if they were in the same situation. Now the sex scenes, unbelievably hot, hot, hot!! Holy can Melissa write an intimate sex scene. She should be known as the Queen of Steam!
Melissa Tereze is gifted when it comes to writing about passion, love, intimacy, and the fiery connection between two women who can’t resist one another. You will not regret reading “Behind Her Eyes”! As long as Melissa Tereze is willing to write books, I’m willing to deal with a lack of sleep to read them because it’s inevitable I won’t be able to put the book down. Get the ‘Behind Her Eyes” you won’t regret losing sleep reading it!! Happy reading:)
Her story, Behind Her Eyes is another one I couldn’t put down. It is about Abi and Victoria. Abi is down on her luck, homeless and unemployed – the situation doesn’t get any more dire than that. Even though Abi is beyond broke, she still does the right thing when she sees Victoria Adley unknowingly drop her purse. Victoria looks like life is treating her well, she’s successful, smart and beautiful - she has her own secrets. Her life seems to be engulfed with gossip and drama, all of which is not her doing. Victoria looks like she has it all, some people want to see her implode and lose everything. Abi has lost the most, and yet she finds she still has lots to give. The connection they share as they become friends, sets a lovely foundation of what’s to come. The story moves along at a great pace. The secondary characters are woven in well. You get a sense of who Abi and Victoria are as individuals and together as friends, then as a couple. The progression of their relationship is realistic which I appreciate. Their concerns are what I think most would feel if they were in the same situation. Now the sex scenes, unbelievably hot, hot, hot!! Holy can Melissa write an intimate sex scene. She should be known as the Queen of Steam!
Melissa Tereze is gifted when it comes to writing about passion, love, intimacy, and the fiery connection between two women who can’t resist one another. You will not regret reading “Behind Her Eyes”! As long as Melissa Tereze is willing to write books, I’m willing to deal with a lack of sleep to read them because it’s inevitable I won’t be able to put the book down. Get the ‘Behind Her Eyes” you won’t regret losing sleep reading it!! Happy reading:)
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