On the Steamy Side

Recipe for Love #2

by Louisa Edwards

She’s Never Met A Man So Mouth-Watering

When Lilah Jane Tunkle fled her dull life in Virginia for the bright lights of New York City, she didn’t expect to wind up a nanny to a gorgeous celebrity chef’s ten-year-old son. Working for the delectable Devon Sparks is a sure-fire recipe for disaster, especially after Lilah gets a tantalizing taste of his perfectly seasoned kisses . . .

And He Can’t Resist Her Down-Home Spice

Devon’s not sure he can handle one more surprise ingredient in his life—he left his popular TV show, his culinary reputation is on the line, and now the son he barely knows is back for seconds. Lilah’s Southern sass is supposed to keep the boy in line, but soon enough she’s teaching Devon a thing or two about homespun food . . . and turning up the heat.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Cooking, Food, Fiction

309 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Louisa Edwards was born in Austin, but grew up in Virginia, where she started reading romance around the age of eleven. She graduated with honors from Bryn Mawr College and landed her first job in publishing as an Editorial Assistant at Berkley and built her own list of authors, earning a promotion to Assistant Editor.

Then real life romance ensued: Louisa married a journalist and moved to a small town in Ohio where she critiqued restaurants for the local paper and began writing the Recipe for Love novels, a series of contemporary romances with a strong culinary theme. Her debut novel, CAN’T STAND THE HEAT, was released by St. Martin’s Press in September 2009 to rave reviews. The second novel in the series, ON THE STEAMY SIDE came out in March 2010, followed by JUST ONE TASTE in September 2010.

The series will continue with TOO HOT TO TOUCH (on sale August 2, 2011), SOME LIKE IT HOT (November 29, 2011), and HOT UNDER PRESSURE (April 2012), a trilogy about a team of talented chefs in a high-stakes culinary competition.

Louisa recently moved back to Austin with her husband. They and their two dogs are already completely in love with it!

Reviews

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a little while since I've read Can't Stand the Heat, the first book in the Recipe for Love series, but I have to say that On the Steamy Side might be better. I knew from the moment I met him in CStH that I was going to love Devon Sparks like no other and that is so true.

Devon Sparks, the illustrious celebrity chef, is the perfect complex character. He has all the standard qualities: his father didn't love him and was never proud of him, he wasn't sure who he really was, he put on a facade for all those around him, he's secretly afraid of failure so he is arrogant and prickly to all those around him, etc., etc. His struggle to accept parenthood, and his insecurities concerning his his abilities as a father, made him even more complex and more human than most think he is. I loved that he finally started taking control of his life by the end of the story. That being said, Devon had even me cringing at some parts, especially the first few services at Market; he was a little harsh sometimes.

Lilah Jane Tunkle. She had me cracking up almost every single time she spoke. Her ability to help Devon and Tucker get through the difficulties of parenthood/childhood was touching and made me smile. She was one tough, Southern cookie that anyone would probably be lucky to have in their life.

When Tucker "ran away", I wanted to cry. I actually started panicking like I was right there next to Devon. I smiled and made a little squeak noise (embarrassingly enough) when Tucker came running into Devon's arms yelling "Dad!" and holding on like their lives depended on it.

Now, Frankie and Jess. I loved their relationship in Can't Stand the Heat and was really looking forward to seeing where their relationship went in On the Steamy Side. I was interested to see that their relationship had moved to a more mature level. Frankie was afraid to look towards the future and was jealous of Jess' relationship with Wes. Jess was trying to make plans for their future together and was understanding of Frankie, was always there for him. I was glad to see that their relationship progressed to a different level than the flirty, immature-ish relationship they shared in CStH. However, I was unhappy with the way they ended in this novel. I am heartbroken that Frankie broke things off because he thought it was in Jess' best interest. While it may have something to do with that, we all know that Jess was right and Frankie was also scared.

I seriously can't wait for Just One Taste to come out, and I haven't decided whether I can read the excerpt from the back of OtSS for Just One Taste without torturing myself with the wait.

[Mahyar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t ever get enough of chefs: first Adam, then Bryce and now Devon.

On the Steamy Side, as you may already know is the second book (If you haven’t read the first book, Can’t Stand the Heat yet, Go get it now!) from Recipe for Love series.

*SPOILERS*

Although unexpected, first pages were awfully hot, but soon after the mouth-watering hot shower, most pages were uninteresting until Tucker, Devon’s son arrival.

Devon’s feelings toward Tucker were heartbreaking and seeing them getting closer−Thanks to Lilah’s genius father/son bonding plans−every day made me smile. I’m not really a fan (Okay, not a fan is an understatement, I usually hate them.) of kids but I loved Tucker and his drawing of them all together (Well, fireflies version of them.) on Market's new menu made me wanna weep.

I really sympathized with Devon‘s relationship with his father; I know how horrible it feels to be compared to someone else. Luckily, he could finally find someone to save him from his miserable, lonely life.

While I really enjoyed Devon and Lilah’s story, I hated the way things ended between Frankie and Jess; I can't believe they just broke up! Hopefully, they'll get through it in the next novel, Just One Taste, which will be released on August 31, 2010.

[Katie(babs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devon Sparks is a narcissist. Perhaps the reason is because he’s handsome, very rich and admired. Devon is a celebrity who owns a slew of very successful restaurants and is the Cooking Channel’s mega superstar with his very popular show, One-Night Stand with Devon Sparks. Cooking is in Devon’s blood and the brash, curses like a truck driver chef is feeling down and out. He has a near perfect life but is feeling antsy and wants the respect of the culinary world, but is afraid of becoming a brand and a tabloid sensation. He also doesn’t have many friends and has cut himself off from his family mainly because of his father who always treated him badly. As he’s drowning his sorrows at a dive bar, where he ends up firing his publicist, he meets a woman who will change his life in so many ways.

Former high school teacher, Lilah Jane Tunkle up and left her life in Virginia. She has come to the Manhattan to start anew and for the moment lives with her oldest and dearest friend from childhood, Grant Holloway who’s the manager at Market, an all-organic restaurant, coincidentally owned by Devon’s former executive chef Adam Temple. Lilah has no clue about this and neither does Devon. Because Lilah wants some excitement in her life, she goes home with Devon and has a one night stand with him. She is totally unaware of who Devon really is and thinks they will never meet again, especially in a city as big as New York City.

Devon can’t get Lilah out of his mind and both are in for a shock because the next day they see each other at Market. Grant got her a job there and Devon is taking over as Executive Chef for two weeks while Adam is away on some much needed R&R with his girlfriend Miranda. Adam’s staff is less than thrilled with working with Devon because he acts like a diva most of the time. Devon is overcome with jealousy because he thinks Grant is Lilah’s boyfriend and it irks him when Grant calls her Lolly. Devon wants Lilah to be his very special Lolly.

The first night of dinner service is a train wreck and Devon fires Lilah from her job bussing tables. Lilah thinks Devon is a major jerk like all the rest of the Market staff, but can’t help her crazy attraction to him. And when a police officer arrives one night with a ten year old boy named Tucker, who happens to be the son Devon barely sees, he looks to Lilah to take care of Tucker for the month he’s in his care while Tucker’s mom is away at rehab. Lilah is thrilled by the idea and hopes to build a bond between Devon and Tucker that’s been missing. Soon Devon, Tucker and Lilah act like a true family and secretly Devon never wants it to end. But then Lilah goes a bit too far with contacting Devon’s own family he’s estranged from and he goes back to his old insulting ways to cope. But Lilah has seen the scared and lonely man that he hides inside and won’t leave without showing him how great of a father he can be, including using his skills for something more fulfilling in life.

On the Steamy Side is a loopy, adorable fantastic contemporary romance that I ate up from beginning to end. This is one of those reads where the quirky and sweet heroine has a break through with the jerk hero and in turn becomes a better person because of it. Some readers are not going to warm up to Devon right away because he has a very high opinion about himself. This is because of his role as a larger than life celebrity, combined with his insecurities due to his issues with his father. Lilah brings him down a few pegs, as in holding up a mirror to his face and pointing out both his good and bad traits and how to combine them to make him change his way of thinking.

Louisa Edwards doesn’t sugar coat things between Devon and Tucker. Devon knows he’s been a bad father and buys his son’s love with expensive gift. Again because of Lilah, who reminded me of an angel come down to heaven to show Devon the errors of his way, pokes at him to work on this much needed father and son relationship.

The secondary characters are some of the best I’ve read in a long while. There is a tender, somewhat heartbreaking romance with Frankie a foul mouth, smoking Brit channeling Johnny Rotten, who’s a cook at Market and the innocent looking Jess who’s Miranda’s brother. Frankie is older then Jess and feels he has nothing to offer him. Their relationship was a welcomed one and written in such a way where more traditional readers will enjoy a loving gay relationship. Grant has a bit of a mystery surrounding him in regards to the bartender Devon recently hires. This is another relationship I can’t wait to see evolve over the next few books.

On the Steamy Side doesn’t have many “steamy” love scenes between Devon and Lilah, but just enough tension and subtle intimacies where there’s a nice balance. The snappy, fun loving dialogue and overall comradery with this cast of character makes for great reading.

Louisa Edwards is up there with Julie James and Erin McCarthy as my favorite contemporary romance authors. Welcome to this talented club Louisa, where I can’t wait for your next hot cookin’ romance.

[Brit · Rating 3 out of 5]

So – this was a pretty good book.


I’m not great in the kitchen… ok, I suck at cooking. I don’t know how to boil eggs and I’ve messed up so many baking projects due to swapping baking SODA for baking POWDER… Apparently there’s a difference.


What does this matter?


Well, there’s a lot of food/cooking references in the book so I found myself skimming. Not because it was poorly written, but because I had no idea what they were talking about.


Now the romance part of this book… ok – the sex in this book… was REALLY well done. I don’t tend to comment on it all that much, but muy bueno Sra. Edwards!


This is where I should also tell you that I didn’t read the first book in this series… You don’t need to for the most part…


Frankie’s storyline might have been more appreciated, but that’s about it.

Overall, I would give this guy about a 3.5

Wouldn’t shout about it from the hilltops, but wouldn’t warn you against it

[CJ - It's only a Paper Moon · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25

A good beach read or a rainy day read.

I don't really have the energy to go into a deep analysis of this book so I'm going to do the pro/con thing.

Pro - I like how there was a homosexual relationship shown and that it wasn't a farcical couple.

Con: This book wasn't about them and their story sort of came out of left field when the book would change from Lilah and Devon's POV. I get that the multiple POV is interesting and when it's handled right it makes a lot of sense but you know what? Multiple POVs are used to keep the story going and Frankie and Jess' story, while interesting had nothing to do with Lilah and Devon.

So while I really liked Frankie (I have a small crush on him now because he seems awesome), he might deserve his own book and not crowd this one.

Pro: The dialogue was fun and sexy

Con: The inner thoughts were sometimes a bit cheesy

Pro: Tucker and Devon hit it off

Con: Devon and Tucker hit it off way too quick.

That's about all I have in me for now. The ending was a little cheesy and predictable but still pretty good.

[Blessie (Mischievous Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This second Recipe For Love book, I did not entirely enjoy, due to the lacking portions of some stories and characters included in the book.

I understand Frankie and Jess's relationship is an on-going story line and would probably be included in the next sequel, however, I did not quite liked the way it ended with Devon and his family. His father has never moved on being such a bitter parent, and there was never a relationship progress between them both. I half expected a little closure on the bitterness of Devon's dad towards his son. Since Lilah is a character well known for being such a sweetheart and making everyone fall in love with her, I half expected her to cook up an action that would fix the Devon-Phil relationship.

Other than that tiny idea, the romance was beautiful. The idea of Devon as a hot and cold kind of character, like a wild animal with a soft heart and having sweet Lilah Jane to tame the wild beast made the love oh so sweet. Plus, to add a kid into the dough makes it better.

Nonetheless, it was a fun read. The first steamy sex will definitely get you hot and bothered.

[Susan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was disappointed in this book. The blurb sounded really good, but...

If the author had stuck to one story line, I would have liked it better, but other than the line about the chef and Lilah, the author had a secondary story about a gay couple. That it was a gay couple was not the issue...it was that I never felt the main story was the main story and there were too many other issues happening.

Devon (the chef) is a real toad to everyone, Lilah seems to be the only one who see anything good in him. She, at one point, contacts his parents (whom he has NO relationship with) and invites them to a major do and thinks that all will be well.

This also includes a line regarding a 10 year old child, who waltzs out of a (security) high-rise apartment IN NEW YORK CITY!!!(in the middle of the night no less)and no one sees him! The kid then calls his mother (who's in rehab) to come get him because he's lost! In the middle of the night! I know, I know, there needs to be drama, but come on...

Anyway...I thought I found a new author...guess not

[Norma · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great, fun, light contemporary. I really liked LE's first in this series, "Can't Stand the Heat," and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one too.

Devon is an unlikable character, and I so often love watching someone like him try to redeem himself. Lilah is a peach and a lot of fun to read about. There's a side story that continues from CStH with Jess and Frankie that is really heartwarming and is given, IMO, just the right about of time in this book.

Anyone who enjoys Gibson, Martin, Crusie, Donovan, James etc would like Edwards too I think. She has a nice writing style and her setting and characters draw you into their world.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't enjoy Louisa Edward's first book, Can't Stand the Heat, because of the crazy, selfish, manipulative Miranda, but I did enjoy the writing and the secondary characters. In fact, I liked the writing well enough to give the author a second chance and I'm glad I did. While Devon was arrogant, he also showed a vulnerability that softened the effects of his ego. I have to admit Devon's interactions with his father were unsatisfying to me, but other than that, I enjoyed the story. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and relationships, and look forward to the next book.

[Sophie [at] Book Suburbia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The BEST recipe for love: A Southern Belle and a City Chef! What a HOT AND EXPLOSIVE COMBINATION!!!! Mrs. Edwards, I have to say this: You have a gift. A very talented gift with a way of making the reader think it's a movie script that I feel totally numb. This was a treat! A very delicious treat!

The secret of this book, lays not only on the absolutely fun and fast paced relationship between Lilah "Lolly" Jane Tunkle and Devon Sparks, but in all the elements revolving around them. Devon is the portrait of a successful guy who achieved everything he set his mind to. But as the rest of the story shows, he lacks the most essential ingredient for every human being: family love and affection. And Lolly, though being an orphan, had it all her life and knows the perfect way to a man's heart.

I think the way Devon approached the situation with Tucker is heart melting. He does love his son. You can just tell. Of course, he doesn't know how to show this love and the fact that Lolly encourages him is just outstanding. I loved Tucker. He played an important role in Devon's determination to change though he doesn't really know how to show him his love either. Remember, a kid with no record of love and affection is hard even in real life.

We also learned about Frankie's insecurities. You just KNOW he loves Jess! But you also find that in many real gay relationships (and straight ones too!) they're doubts about age, occupations, friends, and many other things that might cloud your head. I'm just waiting to read the third book to see what Jess does about it, because yes, YOU WANT HIM TO GET BACK WITH FRANKIE, and also, YOU WANT FRANKIE TO ASK JESS TO FORGIVE HIM.

[Stormy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have to say that this isn't my favorite series overall. I mean, I wasn't all that interested in reading Devon's story and Lolly was cutish, but again, the New York culture is really missing from this series. We continued to get a great taste of England via Frankie and here we got a good view of some sort of Southern Living. Tucker was interesting, though the end had sort of a "Sleepless in Seattle" feel to it. I suffered serious deja vu at the end of the book, feeling like I must've read this before, somewhere, haven't I?

When the HEA comes for Devon and Lolly, well, I didn't much care. Shrug.

And it took me a long time to finish the whole book because the 3rd to last chapter was so horrible for me, I didn't even want to read what I knew it contained. The one thing that's been pulling me through the two books was imploding. I swear, if they don't get their own damned HEA in the third book...I might seek Louisa out and give her a piece of my mind.

Pushing forward with the next one...two more to go, then Ms. Edwards may land on my Do Not Read list of authors.

[ALPHAreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in Louisa Edward’s ‘A Recipe for Love’ series. The first book was 'Can't Stand the Heat'.

I loved this book. Straight-up, pure and simple – I loved it!

The characters are so much fun in this second installment. Devon Sparks is a celebrity chef –a Gordon Ramsay type reality-TV chef snob – except that Devon Sparks isn’t British, he’s got Adonis-like good looks and he’s secretly lacking in self-confidence. My one complaint about Devon is that while other characters built him up to be an egocentric, womanizing blow-hard the moment he meets Lilah he’s sort of on his best behavior (showing glimpse of the famous ego) and I never really bought his ‘jerk’ reputation. When Devon’s ten-year-old son, Tucker, is unexpectedly left in his care, Devon’s world slowly unwinds and he is forced to examine his life. I genuinely enjoyed reading Devon’s struggles and his transformation – especially because it wasn’t easy, and the biggest obstacle to Devon’s changes was Devon himself. It always makes for fascinating development and reading when readers can see the flaws in a character that they cannot recognize in themselves.

I love, love, loved Lilah ‘Lolly’ Tunkle. She’s from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, and talks like it. At first I rolled my eyes at all her colloquialisms – i.e. “Oh my Stars and Stripes!” but then they started to help form this lovely, energetic, nurturing character and I found her speech-patterns to be one of my favorite things in the book. It helps that Charlaine Harris and Anna Paquin (on ‘True Blood’) gave me some sort of reference and idea about how such phrases would actually sound.

Lilah is an absolute hoot. She may act like a Southern-belle, but when push comes to shove she doesn’t mind going toe-to-toe with Devon or her little charge, Tucker. Some of my favorite scenes involved Lilah shedding her ‘Southern hospitality’ and showing her true feisty self. One such scene that had me laughing out loud was between Lilah and Devon’s son, Tucker when they first meet;

“Look, kiddo. Everything I know about nannying comes from movies like ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘The Sound of Music’ – I realize it’s your job to start out surly and untrusting and I’m supposed to win you over with my charm and warm heart and incomparable singing voice, but unfortunately for both of us, Tuck, I am so not Julie Andrews. So what do you say we skip that part and head straight for being buds?”
Tucker looked at her blankly. Dear sweet Lord in Heaven, was it possible the child didn’t know what she was talking about?
While she was struggling with the horror of a kid who didn’t know who Mary Poppins was, Tucker opened his mouth and dispelled any worries she’d had about his ability to speak.
“You talk weird, Lolly.”
His ability to speak politely, however, was still in question.
“I’m from the South,” Lilah said. “As I think I already mentioned.” She struggled for a moment against the hated nickname, then reluctantly added, “And that’s ‘Miss Lolly’ to you.”
Tucker stared at her challengingly. “Does everyone down there take so long to say stuff? You sound like the big chicken in the cartoons.”
Oh, he did not just compare her to Foghorn Leghorn.

The above except is also an example of Ms. Edward’s infectiously funny writing. I love the fact that at times she is quite aware of the fact that she is writing a ‘romance’, and she’ll become cleverly self-deprecating of the genre. It makes for an entertaining romance read when the author is clearly aware of her audience, and can sort of have an ‘in’ joke with them about the schmaltziness of the genre.

One thing I really loved about first book was the M/M subplot between sous chef, Frankie, and NYU student (and part-time waiter), Jess. Jess had just recently come out of the closet, and in ‘Can’t Stand the Heat’ he was experiencing his first love with Frankie. Jess is young and bright-eyed, about to start his arts degree in the fall. Frankie is British, in a punk band, smokes like a chimney and is a few years older than Jess. Frankie also has a less-than-savory romantic history, and Jess is his first *real* relationship.

They were so sweet in ‘Can’t Stand the Heat’, and I remember wishing that Jess and Frankie had had a bigger role in that first book. Well, Ms. Edwards clearly anticipated fans reaction to Frankie/Jess – because it becomes clear in ‘On the Steamy Side’ that their relationship and progress will be a constant in future ‘Recipe’ books. Whereas book #1’s protagonist, Adam, makes a small cameo in ‘Steamy’, his ladylove Miranda is only referred to. So I am really glad that Frankie/Jess didn’t get the same treatment – because in ‘Steamy’ Edwards delves deeper into their relationship and creates some future conflict for them. Sucks that there are speed-humps ahead, but *yay!* for Ms. Edwards intending them to be regular’s of the series!

One of the best things about the whole premise of the ‘Recipe for Love’ series is the setting – a trendy, busy up-scale New York restaurant. There’s so much room for drama, hook-up’s, break-up’s, gossip and bitchiness. Louisa Edwards beautifully captures all the mayhem and intrigue of the kitchens – but she also shows the camaraderie, the ‘family’ feel working in such a competitive and close environment creates.

I love this series, two-books in and I know that Ms. Edwards has me for the long haul. Book #3 is called ‘Just One Taste’ and comes out August 31st this year. I can’t wait!

[Nancy H · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good romance, this tells the story of what happens when Lilah moves to New York, takes a restaurant job she is not good at doing, and then finds herself the nanny to the son of a temperamental, seemingly cold-hearted chef. She finds out that there is some heat under the ice, but she doesn't know if she wants to stick around to deal with the complicated life between him and his son.

[HB · Rating 1 out of 5]

The plot just fell flat for me. Started skimming around the 40% mark. Lilah was unbelievably annoying and needs to mind her own business. I can't believe that everyone in the book thought she was likeable.

[✨Mel✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

a bit sleep deprived and also 11 hours away from my second exam but again worth the read and probably the low grade

[Mallory · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

[Melanie Wergin · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful characters

I love the characters in this series - highly recommend this author. I’m also enjoying reading story lines around food - inspires me to get cooking

[Carolyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading and enjoying Can't Stand the Heat, Louisa Edwards debut novel, I had high expectations for On the Steamy Side. Unfortunately, although there were many good aspects to this novel, including the hero, there were aspects that weren't... like the heroine.

The hero in On the Steamy Side is Devon, a self-made millionaire who's a celebrity TV chef with his own show. His TV personality is not unlike our very own Gordon Ramsey - he shouts, he swears and he definitely plays up to the camera! But underneath there's conflict bubbling, inner torment and self-doubt. Devon is not who he seems to be on the outside and most of who he has become is down to his father and their very strained relationship.

At the beginning of the novel we are given a prologue which shows Devon at a much younger age having to deal with an uncaring, unloving father who lavishes his pride on his brother, Connor. This reveals to me all the reasons for Devon's issues of needing to be in control, perfectionism and 'has to be the best' attitude. It was hard for me not to be drawn to Devon.

However, the same can't be said for Lilah Jane, the heroine. Lilah is an over zealous, interfering busy-body. I can completely understand Devon's rage at her meddling with his family's problems, especially only after knowing each other for just a day! Some of the decisions Lilah makes are ludicrous, especially with Tucker, Devon's son, and she comes across as very self-righteous, complaining to Devon about his decisions in life and disagreeing with most of them.

I agree Devon has made some pretty bad choices, but it takes time to build bridges. Lilah's naivety in these matters were quite irritating and I had to grit my teeth through quite a few passages. It seems Lilah's only fault is not taking enough risks in life, which is why she moved to New York City from Virginia. At their first meeting I really liked Lilah's fiery side, but it turned into either that of a petulant, spoilt child or a strict school mistress telling off a child - either way none were particularly appealing or attractive.

The actual romance between Devon and Lilah was somewhat tainted by my constant eye-rolling at Lilah's holier-than-thou attitude, but there were moments of tenderness and moments of heat. The love scenes were fairly tame, with only one being fairly graphic early on in the book, but as usual they were written well. Over time Devon learns to trust Lilah and begins to show his true self.

Apart from Lilah, there are many great characters. Some we meet again, having first meet them in Can't Stand the Heat. My favourite has to be Frankie. Edwards has really captured the Britishness of his character and I always knew it was him when the view point changed. His foul-mouthed use of the English language is exactly how I imagine a London chef to be like. I also enjoyed his relationship with Jess. Being in a gay relationship is no different than a heterosexual one, there's just as much self-doubt and insecurity going on and Frankie just melts my heart. I hope his character continues in future books as I would love to find out what happens to him.

Notable Quotes:
"The corn had a caramelised flavour from the grill, and the tender, firm kernels popped in her mouth. Swathed in tangy, spicy mayo with a good citrus kick, one of Lilah's most familiar flavours of summer, sweet corn, turned into her newest addiction."

"She closed her eyes, the better to savour the way the cool, buttery avocado cut the smoky spice of the moist chicken, and when she opened them, Devon was gazing directly at her, a heat that had nothing to do with the spicy food in his stare."
Verdict:

Louisa Edwards is very talented at bringing her characters to life. She's also fantastic at describing food and recipes that have your mouth watering and making you wish that some gorgeous man would come and make you dinner right there and then!

Although there were aspects to On the Steamy Side that just didn't gel with me, it was, for the most part, a fun read and certainly hasn't put me off trying Edwards next novel in the 'Recipe for Love' series, Just One Taste. It's just a shame I couldn't connect with the heroine this time round.

[ThePerpetualBookJunkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another tale on the fascinating and intriguing world of gourmet cooking, “On the Steamy Side” was an absolute hit and another addition to my book shelf labeled “Favorites”! The fun and acerbic humor continued in this series and of course nothing beats the steamy HOT and sizzling sex which I do believe added spice to this culinary romance.

This is the second installment to the “Recipe for Love” series. It was the story of Devon Sparks, our very own celebrity Chef and Lilah Jane Tunkle, best friend to Grant Halloway, the Maître D at the Market. Again, I was catapulted in the captivating dramas that surround Adam’s Kitchen. The rich and colorful depiction of the day to day activities of chefs and wait staff in these series was like watching a real play in progress. I couldn’t help but imagine that I was really part of the stories, a bystander or an observer. It was great and really glad I was gifted with a truly vivid imagination.

In this story, Adam asked Devon a favor to be Head Chef for two weeks at Market in his absence. He’s going away for a two-week vacation with Miranda and since Frankie turned his offer down to be head chef, instead asked his ex-boss and celebrity friend, Devon to do the honors. The night prior to his first day of work, Devon met a lovely woman with a Southern accent and immediately felt the sizzling chemistry of sexual awareness and took her home. Not his usual type but there was just something about her that captivated his interest. When he woke up and found her gone, he was disappointed only to be amazed when he met her again at the Market and learned her name was Lilah Jane Tunkle and she was under Adam’s employment. Although technically speaking, he’s her boss, albeit for two weeks. His pleasure upon learning that one twist of fate of having her near was immediately crushed though when she’s rather very sweet with Grant. Not permissible he thought! Although he wouldn’t term it as jealousy, would he? What they had although was tantamount to indescribable sex was still a one night stand. Now there’s an irony, after all his television show at the Cooking Channel was titled “One Night Stand” with Devon Sparks!

Lilah couldn’t believe she really had had a one night stand with the most gorgeous man she’d met in her first night in New York and a decadent sex at that! Hmm, definitely not a bad start. On her first day of work though, she encountered this wonderful beautiful man again, only to be surprised he’s technically the boss for two weeks. And had she ever thought this guy was wonderful? Because she found herself revising that opinion sooner than she thought possible as he was the most obnoxious, arrogant, egomaniacal and foul-mouthed man she had the misfortune to have met and had had sex with!

Sparks was definitely flying with this one but Devon and Lilah couldn’t deny the sexual attraction they feel for each other. Better act on it or they would both reach the boiling point.

What’s set this apart from the first story was the depth and complexity of the storyline. I found myself understanding and appreciating the character of Devon Sparks. In the first story, he was painted as an arrogant and egotistical chef because of his celebrity status. Although that was quite true enough, it was explained in this story the reason behind his personality. And I really admired the way the supporting characters evolved from the first series. And as before, was fascinated with the ensuing drama of Frankie and Jess’ love affair and what’s interesting was the involvement of Wes Murphy, a graduating student of Academy for Culinary Arts working under Adam Temple’s supervision. This side story was becoming a real tear-jerker, before I knew it I was weeping already and heartbroken with Frankie. And my heart went to Jess! And now, I can’t wait to read “Just One Taste”. I am really anxious to know about Frankie and Jess. Hay, I loved these series!

[Judi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Country bumpkin and one time High School drama teacher Lilah Jane (Lolly for short and yes I kept thinking of a lollipop every time someone called her that) leaves the comfort of her small town life in rural Virginia and heads to the Big Apple looking to shake up her safe, staid, boring life and do the opposite of everything her Aunt Bertie has always taught her to do.

Devon Sparks is a world renowned celebrity chef, star of his own successful TV show, egomaniac, narcissist and all around bad boy. He is so far out of Lolly's league they may as well have been from different planets.

This book started out with a banging...I mean a bang...ok, no I really mean a banging. Devon and Lilah Jane cross paths one night in a dive bar and before you say "fry me up some catfish" they are headed off to his penthouse for a hot, sweaty bout of anonymous sex. The "sparks" were literally flying off the pages during a very steamy, very hot shower scene *fans self*.

Fast forward to the next morning and we return to the familiar stomping grounds of "Market" and all the familiar faces (Frankie, Jess, Adam) we met in Edwards first book Can't Stand the Heat. Lilah has just landed a job there bussing tables thanks to her good childhood friend Grant and guess who's going to be the guest Chef at Market for the next 2 weeks - yes you guessed it...Devon Sparks! So much for one night of anonymous sex. Things are really going to start cookin' in the kitchen at Market now that Devon and Lilah are going to be working together..or maybe not.

Let me just say at this point I really did not like Devon - he may have looked like Curtis Stone (but with sable hair and without the accent, but hey that's who I envisioned while reading), but his attitude reminded me that obnoxious Gordon Ramsey from Kitchen Nightmares. Devon acted like a spoiled brat Prima Dona, yelling, swearing and screaming like a trucker and treating all the employees at Market like second class citizens including Lilah Jane.

When Devon is unexpectedly thrust into the parent role (yes he's been an absentee father), one he's so ill-prepared to handle when his nine year old son Tucker is suddenly without a mom (she's headed off to drug rehab), we get some insight into Devon's insecurities. Boy has some major daddy issues and to this day has a tempestuous relationship with his father. Like father, like son...1st class A-hole. Watching Devon discover the joys of fatherhood and embrace his relationship with his own son I started to like him more. He was still a tool, but at least he was trying.

Since Devon has no idea what to do with Tucker, he fires Lilah Jane from her job at the restaurant on the spot, only to rehire her as a nanny, but she's no Mary Poppins. And she's also not interested in being Devon's playmate at least not at first -but her resolve didn't last long and really who can blame her because really... he made her girl parts tingle.

On the Steamy Side is about relationships, new ones, old messed up ones, disappointing family ones, but most importantly that the best relationships are attainable if you're just brave enough to reach out and hold on for dear life before it's too late.

If you are in the "Market" for a good "foodie" book with memorable characters who will tug at your heartstrings, then On the Steamy Side should be on your TBR pile.

[Jane Stewart · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pleasant escape. The character mix was interesting. The foods and tastings were good.

STORY BRIEF:
Lilah was raised in the Appalachian Mountains. Her boyfriend dumped her, and she lost her teaching job due to a funding cutback. So she moved to New York City and stayed with her friend Grant. Grant manages the restaurant “Market” (from the first book in the series), and he hires her to buss tables there. The owner of Market left for his honeymoon and asked Devon to run the restaurant for him for two weeks. Devon is a wealthy celebrity chef with a TV show and a string of restaurants. Devon lives alone and is not a happy person. He is gorgeous looking and has frequent one-night stands. He meets Lilah in the restaurant and is drawn to her which surprises him because she is not what he is used to. She is pleasant looking but not a beauty. She loves southern cooking like fried chicken livers and collard greens – which Devon considers revolting.

Devon makes menu changes which the customers don’t like, and he is unpopular with the kitchen staff. He had a son Tucker with Heather whom he never married. He sends money and gifts but has never spent time with Tucker. Heather is an alcoholic and is forced into rehab for a month. The authorities bring the child to Devon. Devon hires Lilah to be a live-in nanny for the month to take care of Tucker.

REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This was ok but similar to so many other contemporary romances. It’s a pleasant escape. The most interesting part was the character mix: the southern mountain girl, the narcissistic and miserable celebrity chef, the child being raised by a single mother addict who never cooks, and a gay couple working in the restaurant. The plot and events were ok but nothing really special or different. Don’t expect any romance. This starts out as a one-night stand with future lust. I’m not saying this is good or bad, just what it is. For lovers of food and recipes, those parts are fun.

A secondary story involves a gay romance begun in the first book (Jess and Frankie). I loved their relationship in the first book, but I wasn’t happy with the developments in the second book. A problem begins which does not get resolved.

I was also disappointed that the conflict between Grant and Christian was never explained or developed. If the author wants to save that for a future book, fine, but the way she introduced things felt like “here’s a problem but I’m not going to tell you anything about it.” I wanted at least “a little more” on that subject.

Although not necessary, I think you’ll have more perspective about the group of characters and the restaurant if you read the books in order. The first book is “Can’t Stand the Heat” about Adam the restaurant owner.

DATA:
Story length: 316 pages. Swearing language: strong, including religious swear words. Sexual language: strong. Number of sex scenes: 3. Total number of sex scene pages: 14. Setting: current day mostly New York City, NY. Copyright: 2010. Genre: contemporary romance.

[Shxrxn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t see the point of wasting time. We’re both adults. I want you. You want me. Why shouldn’t we have what we want?
- Devon
Uncomfortable.Lord. I’ve been doing the comfortable thing my whole life, it seems like. And what did it get me? I think it’s about time I did something a little uncomfortable.
- Lilah
My Aunt Bertie always says, if you don’t know the right thing to do, err on the side of politeness.
- Lilah
a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.
- Lilah
Your heart wasn’t broken, just a little bruised. And I wanted you to find someone wonderful
- Grant
You hired me to take care of Tucker—my fee does not include taking care of you, too.
- Lilah
I’m not going to fall in love with you.
- Lilah
Temporary doesn't mean your actions won't have consequences.
- Grant
After all, it’s better to take a chance and see what comes of it, right?
- Lilah
Being in love with you hasn’t suddenly rendered me capable of peering directly into your head to see what’s going on.
- Jess
I miss the good old days when you could crash the receiver into the cradle when you wanted to hang up on someone obnoxious.
- Frankie
how embarrassing. You never think it’ll happen to you. that you’ll meet someone who changes you. Or makes you want to change. Be better, maybe.
- Devon
Just because you don’t want to hear it doesn’t make it any less true.
- Devon
If you’re so determined to be miserable, Devon, I can’t stop you. I can’t stop you, but I will be damned if I let you make me miserable, too.
- Lilah
One day, maybe not too very far off, you’re going to wake up and realize you’re tired of being alone. And it’s going to be too late, Devon. You will have pushed away everyone who ever tried to love you. And you’ll be alone forever.
- Lilah
Love was the ultimate act of courage. Because you had to go into it knowing it could be snatched away by forces beyond your control. And if that happened, you’d be a shell of a person, a shadow of yourself, and nothing would ever be any good again. But it didn’t have to be that way. Sometimes love could last. And in the meantime, it was worth it.
- Devon
It’s time to grow up, Peter Pan, and start thinking about what’s good for someone other than yourself, for a change.
- Frankie
It’s been fun and all, but it’s time to move on. For both of us.
- Frankie
I’m not going to fight you on this. If you can’t be bothered to fight for us, why should I?
- Jess

[Nicola L · Rating 3 out of 5]

(This review also appears on Amazon.co.uk)

After reading the first book in the `Recipe for Love' series "Can't Stand the Heat" and not being overly impressed by it, I have to admit I wasn't holding out too much hope for this book either. Thankfully, I was proven wrong: both protagonists in this book are infinitely more likeable than the ones in the aforementioned novel, and as a consequence I found myself liking this book from the very first chapter. It's steamy, sexy food fiction and actually has a decent plot too. If you're looking for chick lit or romance that is perhaps that little bit different from the norm, then this is a book I would recommend. Be warned though: this does have ADULT content--not the sort of sex scenes you would want your teenaged sister to be reading, if you know what I mean!

A summary: famous chef Devon Sparks has left his hit TV show, dumped his publicist and his reputation is on the line. He's tired of being a sell-out and is also tired of people taking advantage of him- to Devon fame isn't everything, despite the perks. When he meets sexy Southern belle Lilah in a New York bar, the chemistry between them is soon zinging, but he never expects the sassy woman to be anything but a one night stand, after all, she certainly isn't his usual type of woman. When she's taken on as a nanny to Devon's estranged son however, she soon realises that this Yankee's cooking isn't the only thing about him that's sizzling...

As well as a host of new faces, this book contains characters that made an appearance in book one, which is nice and adds continuity. I was glad to see cockney sous-chef Frankie back, even though he is perhaps one of the most stereotypically written characters--a tattooed Londoner liking The Clash and talking about his `old mum,' how cliché! There are the formulaic recipes from within the story featured at the back of the book, which is a nice touch for foodies. Also included is a sneak peak at the third forthcoming book "Just one taste" which sounds like it too could be a decent read.

As I've said, this is an enjoyable, un-taxing read with likeable characters, lust and romance. If you're looking to start a Louisa Edwards book, I'd actually say to read this one first (even though it's not the first in the series) just because it's better than book one! Great girly reading.

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I bought this book on my kindle for the Dewey's Read-a-thon. The third book in the series, Just One Taste, was recommended by a friend. I was so excited about a cooking romance series that I spent at least 20 minutes trying to decide which one I would buy. I settled on On the Steamy Side due to the description. Unfortunately, I was disappointed.

I'm not sure if I did not enjoy this novel because I was expecting too much or if I actually just didn't like it. But either way, I didn't enjoy reading it at all. I found myself skimming many parts, just so I could get to the end. I did not connect with any of the characters. I found both main characters annoying and frustrating. There was a side story that I had no clue why it was put in. And I felt that most of the language and kitchen scenes were put in only for effect. Edwards tried to re-create a kitchen atmosphere in which the chefs were hardcore and rough around the edges. But instead, it just seemed almost vulgar to me at times.

Lilah was supposed to be a character who came to New York after being the good-small-town-girl. I got the idea that this story was supposed to be out-of-character for her; but because I never really got who she was at the beginning, it did not seem realistic to me. Being a Southern girl myself, I did not get the Southern charm from her either. Instead, she seemed a little too small-town for me. Perhaps it was because Edwards spent a lot of time on Devon insulting her and then did not add much detail to the story when they actually became friends and worked together. And Devon, to me, just seemed like a jerk. I never really understood his character beyond him being an ass. Even towards the end when he connects with his son, it seemed so out of character for him that it didn't make sense to me.

Ultimately, I didn't really enjoy the novel so I gave it a 2/5. I finished because I wanted to see how the characters ended up, but I probably will think twice before picking up another one of Edwards' books. I would only recommend it to those who aren't phased by language and only want a quick romance fix.

[Christi Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review reposted from my Smitten with Reading blog...


My Review:
After a no-strings attached night of wild abandon, Lilah is shocked to discover the next morning that her new boss is the sexy hunk that swept her off her feet the night before.

Devon is a cooking channel star, but he hasn't worked running a real kitchen in over 5 years so he is in a bit of a panic having agreed to run his friend's kitchen (Market from book #1) for 2 weeks while Adam and Miranda escape on a much needed vacation. Things quickly spiral downward, by first discovering Lilah working at the restaurant, followed by a disastrous night in the kitchen, ending with finding his 10 yo son, Tucker, whom he barely knows dropped in his lap at the end of the night.

Devon learned early in life that he couldn't depend on anyone but himself. After a disappointing childhood, he has learned that it's better to not risk himself emotionally so he's at a total loss as to what to do when Tucker suddenly shows up in his life. His solution is to throw Tucker to Lilah's gentle card, but she's not going to let him off that easily.

Where everyone else has written Devon off as an egotistical self-absorbed bastard, Lilah sees a different side to him. She can see that he's simply scared. Scared to get attached. Scared to open himself up. Scared to care. So she takes it upon herself to show him a better way.

This book features the same group of characters that I fell in love with in book #1. The difference is that in book #1, they were devoted and loyal to Adam. In this book, they hate and resent Devon. It's really interesting to see how that shift changes the entire dynamic of the kitchen and how it flows.

The continuation of the love story between Jess & Frankie was an added bonus in this book. I am really enjoying this sub-plot of the series and hope that their story continues into book #3 because their story is definitely not finished.

A fabulous book with a lot of emotional depth. My only complaint was that the heroine, Lilah, was a bit over the top with her Southern ways which drove me crazy at times. But otherwise, I totally fell in love with all the characters and storylines in this book.

[Bookaholics · Rating 4 out of 5]

On The Steamy Side by Louisa Edwards
Contemporary Romance - March 2010
4 Stars

On The Steamy Side is the second novel by Louisa Edwards in her Recipe for Love Series. In this new installment of the series you are reintroduced to the staff of the Adam Temple Market restaurant and will discover even more about some of their personal lives!

On The Steamy Side is the story of famous TV chef Devon Sparks who has agreed to run Adam Temple's restaurant kitchen while he is away. Along with the challenges of running a kitchen Devon has to deal with the lovely and enticing Lilah Jane Tunkle who has left her dull life in Virginia for the excitement of New York City. When these to meet they are immediately drawn to one another but they know they may be getting in deeper than they desire. Things continue to become more complicated for the pair when Devon's 10 year-old son shows up and Devon's solution is to hire the lovely Lilah Jane as the boy's nanny. As these two are thrown into daily contact with each other things become more complicated and fun to read.

Devon and Lilah Jane are both appealing characters. They are very real people who have their own flaws which makes you love them all the more and want to see them happy in the end. This book has a great mix of interesting characters that you will enjoy reading. Not only do you get a wonderful hero and heroine but a lot of the intriguing secondary characters that you will be anxious for the next book in the Recipe for Love series to come out soon.

For those of you looking for an exciting new contemporary series you will definitely get into Louisa Edwards Recipe for Love books. I only suggest you start with the first book in the series Can't Stand the Heat first. If you a looking for a good romantic story filled with engaging and lovable characters this is the book for you. Once you start you won't want to wait for the next installment to this entertaining series.

Reviewed by Mary from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

[Amy]

I know I just started, but somehow my interest in this book has faltered. Maybe just a bit. Well, my interest level is now low enough that I think it's best for me to take a little break from On The Steamy Side. I'm partly sad, yet relieved. Sad, because I really want to see what happens to Frankie and Jess. Yes, they are included in this book! :) Relieved, because I feel like I'm forcing myself to continue this book every time I try to. Will maybe come back to this series. -5/19/12





(The character section is spoily!!)

Characters:

Adam Temple: owns Market,Miranda Wake's love interest,before going to Europe to spend time with Miranda.. he got Devon to step in as executive chef in Market for two whole weeks,

Devon Sparks: owner of Appetite,star of a cook channel,former boss of Adam,vivid ice-blue eyes,long lashes,artfully tousled brown hair, knife-blade cheekbones,got fired from her job as busgirl and got hired to babysit Devon's little boy.. all by Devon himself,

Frankie: sous chef and bestfriend of Adam,Jess Wake's love interest,

Lilah Jane Tunkle: halo of untamed dark curls,bright green eyes, round pink cheeks, chin too pointed, dark brows, pale skin, got hired as busgirl at Market,

Angela Sparks: Devon's mom,

Phil Sparks: Devon's dad,is not proud of Devon because he wants Devon to be a 'real man' instead of cooking for a living,

Conner Sparks: Devon's younger brother,

Simon Woolf: Devon's publist,doesnt listen to how Devon feels.. and does what he think is right,got fired by Devon,

Christian: bartender at an underground club,Devon's ex-employee,

Grant Holloway: Market's manager,Lilah's longtime bestfriend and new roomie,

Wes Murphy: wide mouth, sparkling hazel eyes, messy chestnut hair,

Paolo: Devon's driver,


Pages: 54-kD
Page currently on:156

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Steamy Side is book 2 in Louisa Edward's Recipe for Love series and it's just as good if not better than the first one! Lilah Jane Tunkle moves to New York City to get away from her lackluster life in rural Virginia and thanks to her girlhood friend, Grant, gets a job bussing tables at Market (the trendy Manhattan restaurant featured in book 1).

Devon Sparks is a celebrity chef whose good looks and playboy ways have made him one of America's hottest bachelors, but it's been a long time since Devon has actually been in the kitchen. When Adam Temple (the hero from book one) goes on vacation, he asks Devon to take over his restaurant.

When Devon and Lilah first meet, sparks fly (whew!) The next day, realizing they have to work together, they decide to keep their relationship professional. But when the 10 year-old son Devon barely knows shows up at the restaurant's doorstep, Lilah convinces Devon to take him in. The boy's mother has been arrested for a DUI and has gone into rehab. Devon doesn't know anything about taking care of a child, so he hires Lilah to be the boy's nanny.

Devon is my absolute favorite kind of hero- the wounded alpha male. And Lilah is an every woman who gets under his skin and teaches him what's important in life. I really loved this story. It's sexy, warm, romantic and the food descriptions are fantastic. I finished it in one day!

[Stephany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of Louisa Edwards I've read and it was fantastic. She's quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. The book wasn't cheesy or corny. It had perfect parts of inner character struggles, funny moments, and some hot sex scenes.

The book was about a girl from Virginia named Lilah, who moved to NYC after her art program at school got cut and her boyfriend dumped her. She ended up sleeping with celebrity chef, Devon Sparks, during her first night there and then discovered he was going to be her boss as he took over as head chef at a restaurant called Market while the owner was away.

During their first dinner service, where Lilah was doing horribly, Devon finds out the son he's been sending money to now has to live with him or go to foster care. (His mom was in a car accident, while driving drunk, and was sent to a rehab facility.) He had to be a father and Lilah stepped in to be his nanny.

The story revolves around them, Devon learning how to be a father to a 10-year-old boy and Lilah trying to become a more self-assured woman.

Side stories involve Grant, the maitre'd at the restaurant who has issues with a certain cowboy bartender and the continuing relationship between sous chef Frankie and waiter Jess.

It's a GREAT story and I would totally recommend it to anyone who loves romance novels.

[Bunga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lumayan menarik. Novel ini menceritakan tentang Devon Sparks, chef selebriti yg saking populernya dia punya reality show sendiri. Reality shownya lucu konsepnya, dimana dia diwajibkan bisa masak apapun dan dimanapun. Seru ngebayanginnya. Devon ini orangnya ambisius dan prefectionist. Sampai suatu ketika dia diminta menghandle restoran milik sahabatnya selama 2 minggu. Di sanalah masalah terjadi. Masakan Devon 'mendadak' tdk disukai kastamer, dan reputasinya dipertaruhkan.

Heroine kita di sini namanya Lilah. Dia kerja jadi server di restoran sahabat Devon, dan bisa dibilang dia tipe accident prone, soalnya ga cocok kerja di resto dan malah bikin kacau. Hahaha... Well, tp sebelumnya Lilah dan Devon prnh one night stand, meski pada waktu itu mereka sama2 blm tahu nama satu sama lain. Ga disangka malah ketemu lagi di tempat kerja.

Suatu saat Tucker, anaknya Devon, diantar ke restoran dan Devon diwajibkan menampung untuk sementara karena ex-nya Devon masuk ke rehab buat alkoholik. Devon yg ga tau menahu tentang fatherhood nolak dong... tapi saat Tucker mau dibawa ke foster system, Lilah angkat bicara dan akhirnya dia dipecat Devon--malah dijadiin nany-nya Tucker.

Overall, saya cukup menikmati buku ini. Dunia kuliner yang dijadikan backgroundnya berasa hidup banget. Chemistry H-Hr jg keren dan hot.