Member Reviews
Claire is on the way to fulfilling her culinary dreams. She is working in a restaurant in Paris
under the tutelage of a brilliant Chef. He put a lot of faith in her and she was loving the responsibilities and learning opportunities. Things change when he brings in James, a new head chef who seems to take an instant dislike to her and she isn’t sure why. He shows decency and respect to everyone else, but to her, ice cold, snarky, no eye contact and mostly rude. If that isn’t enough, he lives right next door to her. And the hits, they keep on coming. She, like most of us, is a work in progress and trying to develop some developing self confidence that she is sorely lacking. They both have issues that they carry with them, make instant judgments about each other and are very much attracted to each other and refuse to acknowledge it until…the sweet happily ever after. An enjoyable read.
This has to be unexpectedly, one of my favorite reads this year!
I loved the characters and the story and just how warm i felt reading this book, and after.
THIS book is the reason i have decided to start a book journal to keep track of books I have loved :) and add another shelf to my goodreads titled 'favorites'!
To be honest, I totally skipped 'emily in paris' as that is just not the kind of story i want to see.
and so i was a bit skeptical about a story of a woman in Paris.... but to be honest, it had NO CRINGE ... there were no over-the-top dresses, loves, or pareee this and that, and all those airs.
Instead, what I found was a lovely warm story. I love that she was following her dreams, and living life and not waiting for a man or Paris to happen to her or save her.
The descriptions of their food market trips and kitchen stories were fun and interesting to read. The love story was in fact more warmth and friendship and i really dont know when i got involved in their every morning coffee at cafe routines, but i felt like i was sitting at the next table over.
In a nutshell, recommend this book, added to my favorites list and full marks from me.
I look forward to more works by this author.
Paris? Food? Family Drama? Sign me up. This book was like delectable comfort food, and kept me wanting more after every chapter. .
In "Yes Chef" by Waitlyn Andrews, readers are transported to the enchanting world of Claire, a passionate chef in a French restaurant. Claire's love for baking and her dedication to the ever-changing menu weave a delectable backdrop for this tale of culinary romance.
Claire's world takes a savory turn with the arrival of James Sullivan, a seasoned chef hired to propel the restaurant towards the coveted Michelin star. The tension between them, born from clashing personalities, forms the backbone of the narrative.
As Claire and James are thrust together in the quest for culinary perfection, the slow-burn romance simmers beneath the surface. The chemistry between them is potent, and the novel beautifully captures the essence of their blossoming connection. The romantic allure is heightened by the fantastical French setting, adding a touch of magic to their journey.
While the romance isn't overtly steamy/sexy, the appreciation lies in the subtlety of their connection. James's attentiveness to Claire's needs and the palpable chemistry between them elevate the story, making it a heartwarming exploration of love and passion.
For readers seeking a romance that intertwines the culinary arts with genuine character development, "Yes Chef" is a delightful choice. The blend of enemies-to-lovers tension, the pursuit of Michelin glory, and the magical French ambiance make this book a satisfying addition to any bookshelf.
Bon appétit!
Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Beautiful little romance story. I could feel the chemistry radiating off the page and I loved the teamwork, the camaraderie and overall the entire plot was *chefs kiss*. I am very impressed that this seems to be the debut novel from this author as it's very well written. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
I loved this book! I devoured it in only a few sittings and wish there was more to read. The story line was paced very well and the characters were easy to love!
Usually, I am not a fan of a closed-door romance but this book gave me all the emotions without any spice in it.
The same goes for a slow burn. Typically I roll my eyes and complain about how obvious are characters’ feelings, but in the “Yes, Chef” the pace is just right. Things go the most natural way it even can.
Claire and James make the perfect couple. They do not just match each other but together they make something stable and unbreakable. He cares about her, she cares about him, and they accept each other the way they are.
James is… wow! He is consistent in why he wants and step by step he wins Claire’s love and helps to heal her soul (considering what happened to Claire in the past it’s a really hard thing to do!)
And food! Oh my god! I kept cooking and eating for a few days while I was reading. The “Yes, Chef” is dedicated to food and it feels so good.
Highly recommend!
Thank you NetGalley and Waitlyn Andrews for opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! The characters were great! The setting was great and I really hope there is a sequel!
Thank you Netgalley and Waitlyn Andrew for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ohhh lalala this was Chef’s Kiss ! As a foodie and Paris lover this was a fun rom com with a desirable male character. I enjoyed the authors choice for adding culinary dishes and terms in the beginning of each chapter to help the reader indulge in the savory dishes mentioned. It truly made me want to be a guest at their restaurant. Would highly recommend this for foodie lovers such as myself!
Incredibly jealous if Waitlyn's husband is anything like James Sullivan, because I am completely in love. If the goofiness and realness completely didn't already capture my heart, then the fact that this is all taking place in Paris definitely did the trick. My mum and I are definitely trying some of the food described in the chapters!!!
Chefs kiss!
This was such a cute book! Very tame, will they won’t they with zero spice!
The main characters fall into a lovable grumpy sunshine Thorpe that fits the kitchen angle well!
The ending is a bit rushed and slightly unrealistic but fits the story as a whole. The first 3/4 of the book does a lot to build the friendship between the main characters in way that seems genuine and not just sexual tension.
⭐⭐⭐
"Yes, Chef" by Waitlyn Andrews is a memoir that takes readers on a journey through the author's culinary experiences. While the book has its merits, it falls short in a few aspects, earning it a three-star rating.
One of the strengths of the memoir is Andrews' vivid storytelling. The anecdotes about kitchen escapades, interactions with colleagues, and the culinary world's behind-the-scenes glimpses are engaging. Andrews' passion for food and cooking shines through, providing readers with a genuine sense of the author's love for the culinary arts.
However, the pacing of the book feels uneven at times. Some chapters are gripping and filled with intriguing stories, while others seem to lack the same level of depth and excitement. This inconsistency affects the overall flow of the narrative and may leave readers wanting more consistency throughout the book.
Additionally, while Andrews shares personal experiences and challenges faced in the culinary world, there are moments when deeper reflections or insights could have added more substance to the memoir. A more profound exploration of the author's growth, lessons learned, or the evolution of their culinary philosophy would have enriched the narrative and provided a more satisfying reading experience.
The title, "Yes, Chef," suggests a focus on the dynamics of the kitchen and the relationships within it. While the book does touch on these aspects, it doesn't delve as deeply as some readers might expect. More emphasis on the chef-author dynamic and the intricacies of kitchen culture could have elevated the memoir to a more impactful level.
In conclusion, "Yes, Chef" offers an enjoyable glimpse into the culinary world through Waitlyn Andrews' eyes. While the storytelling is engaging, the uneven pacing and a somewhat missed opportunity for deeper reflections prevent it from reaching its full potential. It's a decent read for those interested in the culinary industry, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a more comprehensive exploration of the author's culinary journey.
Cute! is the perfect description of this book. The characters are relatable and the dialogue is fun. I'd recommend it for fans of Top Chef or The Food Network.
I LOVE this book! Claire and James are fantastic together. Just what I was looking for in a Rom-Com. Definitely recommend!
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS*
The first two-thirds of this book weren't perfect, but I was into the story, I enjoyed the characters, and the cooking was great. The last third of the book felt like a different story entirely and I easily could have put the book down and not thought of it again.
Claire is in Paris to escape a bad relationship and make a name for herself outside of her family's shadow. Famous chef James shows up and is cold and distant to her, though they develop a tentative friendship over time. Claire thinks their distant/not overly-friendly relationship is fine, as she is adamently against a workplace relationship. There is typical miscommunication, with James thinking Claire is in a relationship with another chef (yet their behavior other than mildly flirty in the kitchen doesn't suggest it) and Claire thinks the woman he's with is his girlfriend (obviously his sister), but even that is well-played. The thing that started irking me was when James spends the entirety of the book being reserved with Claire, until they're with his family. A Freudian slip of the pet name "baby", a chaste New Year's kiss, and they return to France where an article has been published (that's all we know. literally.), forcing the boss to ask if they're in a relationship. James replies "yes, for awhile", and Claire rolls with it. So, suddenly they're soulmates?
We've spent the entirety of the book with Claire establishing her independence, not wanting a man or a workplace romance, averse to anything remotely controlling, and when a hot guy says "yeah, we're together" she thinks it's romantic? I don't buy it.
Then there was the s e x. Or lack thereof. Claire tells James she won't have sex with him, but "don't worry, I'm not a virgin". There's a somewhat pious attitude towards not having sex in the relationship, but she's not a prude (?), and there's really no reason for this point other than to explain her ex's cheating and proving that James is a "good guy" for waiting for her to be ready? It's very unclear.
There is also a LOT of girl hating from the FMC. Claire often refers to every other woman as a bitch or a bimbo, and if another female isn't related to James, they're conveniently old and not a threat. Overall, I found the book to be a list of checked tropes, common sense is disregarded for development (BLOCK HIS NUMBER ALREADY), and void of chemistry. It did make me hungry, though.
And a factual error - Michelin star restaurants only exist in a handful of cities, none of which are in wine country.
I am so excited to read about chef’s romance. I’m not that good at cooking but it’s a trope in my bucket list to be read. Really appreciate the author putting information of a lots of recipe and professional cooking experience. And to be honest this story was really good. I could have give it five stars if only the momentum on the third quarter of the book doesn’t drop.
They were good. Really. They got chemistry between them. But the problem is they were too good to be true. There’s no romance with no conflict even a tiny bit. And with no conflict it just make the storyline drop it’s excitement.
I am so into rival trope with no spark at beginning. I assume it was the same for the story but it’s not. So it spoiled a bit. But that’s just my preference. Most people wouldn’t mind that.
Omg this was such a great book to help me wait for The Bear withdrawals!! Also, who doesn't want to escape to freakin' France?! My biggest qualm would have to be the closed door, bc...like why it gotta be closed lol especially after that slow burn. My fave background show is Great British Bakeoff so getting to read all about the food descriptions and behind-the-scenes of the restaurant world was just so enjoyable. Though I will say that I wish Claire had been a bit less pick-me, though I definitely can understand a jealousy angle, as it sometimes came off as a bit aggressive. Cute coupling overall as we love a workplace romance (may be how I met my hubby hehe)!
It takes place in a resteraunt in Paris...Enough said! It was a nice easy enemies to lovers book. I just wish I was in Paris while reading it. Can't wait to read more by this author!
This was a well written chef romance that takes place in Paris. I always love anything that involves food. Whether it's a good book, TV show or movie. I like it even more, if it's a well told story. The romance was a beautifully told slow burn. The characters genuinely get to know each other, and I just fell in love with them not only as individuals, but as a couple. I will definitely look into other books by Waitlyn Andrews in the future. 4 stars
"Yes, Chef" is an upbeat, closed-door sizzling-with-chemistry, romantic comedy that will have you believing in the magic of a 90's Rom-Com again.
I definitely requested this book after watching The Bear and it did not disappoint in continuing the theme. I love a behind doors culinary tale (plus the romance didn't hurt!)
For fans of Romance Recipe and Hot Copy.