Member Reviews
This was such a cute read! If you enjoy the humor of a '90s romcom and the type of sweet romance that you can find in a Hallmark movie, you're sure to enjoy this book. Although I usually prefer my romances to be on the spicier side, I still enjoyed reading this closed-door romance--I smiled, I giggled, I kicked my feet. For me, this type of story works best as a palate cleanser, so I could definitely see myself reading another book by this author!
Please note: I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley and the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Enemies to lovers is supposed to give angst, give frustration, etc. But this one just... didn't. James was way critical of Claire in comparison to the rest of his peers, but that just felt.. like he was just being a jerk. I also didn't really like the misrepresentation of OCD in the story. OCD is more than just being clean and particular... it's a psychological warfare of sorts and that felt slighted in the story. What he experienced was more of a perfectionist than anything else, but what do I know?! I REALLY enjoyed the setting, though, and thought the author did a really good job exploring that picture for us as readers. It really made you want to go to Paris and experience the sights, smells, and sounds. As for the storyline, though, that was about the most enjoyment for me... I really wanted to like it, but I just couldn't get past certain misrepresentations and happenings in the plot. Thanks for the opportunity!
If you love Cinnamon-roll MMC then, you'll love Chef (or James) in this adorably sweet food centered romance novel. The fact that each chapter heading has some sort of cooking relating tip is phenomenal! I love the dynamic between James and Claire, he is so patient and sweet with her! It kind of vaguely gives me "NO Reservations" vibes. It as so refreshing to step away from the typical miscommunication or generally toxic relationships seen in most romance novel nowadays and instead step into this slow burn romance between two people who value one another. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC opportunity, I highly recommend this one!
Yes Chef by Waitlyn Andrews
Never even ate at a Michelin Star but got to know the process through this book!! There is so much that a chef has to undergo in order to achieve Michelin star!!
📚 Book talks about a chef, who moves to Paris to achieve her dream of becoming a Michelin star. But, she is just starting her career, so needs guidance and everything is going fine and bam!! There comes male lead who comes from a Michelin star restaurant and becomes her boss.
📚 Story intricately highlights a beautiful routine of a chef. Starting from how they work on a menu, collect vegetables, oil and grains by making contacts to get organic stuff from farm itself to how they work hard hours till late night and how they get so little time for themselves.
📚 The plot flows smoothly covering character's present as well as past and relating those things with various recipes.
📚 It highlights the urge of becoming something even when your family is successful. Also focuses on trust issues and the work as well as time that a relationship demands.
📚 Paris food culture is superbly highlighted with various recipes and their popular desserts.
📚 The story looks monotonous at some points but then they are covered up by an amazing twist.
Overall, if you are looking for something different with debutant author then this is for you!!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Clare Richards has left Napa Valley for Paris, France for many reasons. The main one - she is chasing the elusive Michelin star. She wants to be part of a team that wins this coveted prize. The other things she is escaping from in Napa Valley are just as important.
This novel is a slow (but in a good way!!), winding novel that provides the background as the current story progresses. It is a beautifully written story about second chances and living your best life. I look forward to more books by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this novel.
Unfortunately I didn't finish this book because after reading the first chapters I feel like this book wasn't really for me so my rating is the average for this book expressed here on netgalley because I also feel like I didn't really give it a chance.
Yes, Chef is a delightful story with a lot of heart! The storyline draws you in, especially with its vibrant characters and engaging dialogue. The pacing flows well, and each scene feels thoughtfully crafted, which keeps the reader's attention. The characters are relatable, and their interactions feel natural. It’s easy to connect with their emotions and motivations, making the story more immersive. The main character’s journey is particularly compelling, as they grow personally and professionally. One area that could add depth to the story is expanding on the descriptions of settings, which would bring out the atmosphere of the culinary world even more. A bit more detail about the food and cooking process would enhance the sensory experience for readers. Overall, Yes, Chef is a strong piece with a charming plot and memorable characters. With a bit more descriptive detail, it has the potential to be even more captivating!
In this food-focused romcom, Andrews made it easy for me to become part of the team as they focused on their goal of obtaining a Michelin star. I was instantly wrapped up in the intricate relationships that exist within the restaurant and privy to the reality of working behind the scenes in the service industry.
I discovered the stress of shopping daily for the menu of the day and the camaraderie that blossomed between the staff and the suppliers. I learned new terms and my inner foodie was excited. I liked the experience of juggling living abroad, with parental expectations, working towards a career goal and indulging in romance. The chapter titles were a nice touch and kept me focused with each chapter.
This closed-door culinary fiction was the perfect distraction this week. I'd eagerly read another of this author's books.
The CUTEST book. I have such a soft spot for books about cooking and this one did NOT disappoint. I already went looking for the author’s past works to get my fix
This was such a fun read. I love cooking shows and things based around a kitchen. This was such an enjoyable story and it was easy to get swept away in it.
easy to read, enjoyable, cute alwayssss into a book involving food especially when its linked to a good "he's not into you"(/"he so is") trope
Overall, this book is a delightful read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you cheering for the characters as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, it’s a story that will resonate long after the last page is turned. If you're looking for a blend of laughter, tears, and genuine connection, this romance is sure to satisfy!
Yes Chef is a cute read, enjoyed it in the summer. Fresh off the Bear marathon this is a nice change of pace but still in the world of kitchens and chefs.
I'm late to the party on this one but oh my goodness, what a great novel! Waitlyn Andrews gives us a great debut novel and two main characters to love. It makes me wish I worked in a resturant and fell in love with the chef. The way Waitilyn described James, those denim blue eyes.... had me drooling. I am so glad that I was able to read this book and love that it was a debut novel. Thank you Waitilyn Andrews and NetGalley for this opportunity to read!
I adored this book! It grabbed my attention right away and kept me reading until way past my bedtime. I loved Claire and James! The tension was perfect - so, so good!
Oh I loved this so much. The slow burn romance of my dreams. This book was a good read, which made me fall in love with the characters. I recommend this book.
This was cute, but not my favorite. A light read though for a food lover who wants to have a less stressful outlet than the Bear.
I soldiered through this but it seemed like the conflict was wrapped up about 80% of the way through the book and the rest of the book was designed to be an advertisement for True Love Waits.
I loved the premise of this one, but the execution fell flat. I didn’t ever feel like the part entered James treated her like he hated her was resolved, and he decided they were in a relationship before she even knew. I found him to be kind of controlling and not very swoony. Loved the setting though!
After multiple attempts, this is a DNF for me. The formatting of the eARC was a bit wonky, but even in spite of that, I just could not get into the characters or story.