Where There's a Whisk

I wasn’t expecting to love this book as much as I did. It was SO cute & I couldn’t put it down. I found myself rooting for all of the characters and loving the dynamics between them all, trying to figure out what was real and what was reality television acting, right along with our main character. I absolutely loved the ending and the way New York staples were woven in. I definitely recommend if you’re looking for a cute YA, that will keep your attention and get you invested in the story and the characters right from the start.

I was lucky enough to be able to read an ARC of this book, and I am not disappointed! I don't wan't tp give too much away, but it follows a group of teenagers competing for a scholarship at culinary school on 'Top Teen Chef', a reality TV show. The plot was so intriguing, and this story was filled with drama, friendship, and even a little bit of romance. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I finished the book in less than a day because it was that good. This book is perfect for younger teens/tweens who are just getting started in the YA genre, but also for anyone who wants a sweet, fast-paced story.

Plot: 5/5
Characters: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5

First tysm netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this ARC.

Okay if you know me you know I love books about food. This book is probably the best food themed book I've ever read.

This book is so unique because its about 8 teens going into a baking competition but instead of hating each other they become friends which is such a wholesome spin. Some of the things they said were kinda cringe but I feel like that really represents teens accurately. So it was refreshing seeing a realistic portrayal of teenagers in YA. Also this main character didn't let her "tragic" backstory define her like I've seen so many other times. She was her own person and worked for what she had, which I really admire.

THE DRAMA! I have watched my fair share of reality tv and this book did such a good job of capturing the drama. I was literally gasping and giggling as things happened. I read this is one sitting. It was captivating and I felt myself so invested on what was going on. It was really cool to see the perspective of what happens behind the scenes in reality tv. Although I felt like there was lacking LGBTQ+ rep that could have been added easily I did really enjoy all the romance. Also the diversity I think was nice to see included even if it wasn't touched upon a lot.

I am not from the south, but if you are I feel like you could really connect with the main characters better and find yourself relating even more. I loved the incorporation of some southern things.

The amount of plot twists this book had shook me. I was so surprised because i'm not used to them in contemporary. BUT THEY WERE SO GOOD. They kept me invested and interested as the story kept unfolding.

I really enjoyed how the author added consent into the romance. I feel like it's always over looked. Even the small details of "I want to kiss you right now" matter so so much to young people. So I really respect Schmitt for that.

I loved how there was so many layers to this dramatic book. (I feel like this would be an amazing buddy read). The parts where it kind of expanded about how things in reality TV aren't usually real and etc. I think its also important to realize that in our society today.

I won't say which troupe exactly (bc spoilers) but one of my favorite troupes was added into this book and I approve.

I am actually obsessed with this book and will be getting a physical copy as soon as it comes out [although if I was sent one I wouldn't complain ;) ] Also I really did enjoy how this book was concluded and how I felt satisfied after reading. So read it!

Where There's a Whisk was such a fun teen book. The book is about a teenage girl, Peyton, trying to win a scholarship to culinary school on a reality cooking show to elevate her out of her current life circumstances. The story has the perfect balance of what is going on on-camera and off-camera on the show. I also thought it included just enough information about the dishes Peyton cooks without bogging us down with every little detail of every recipe she makes. The bit of romance included was enough to be an interesting plot point without making this a teen romance novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. Overall I would not hesitate to recommend this book for middle grade to high school aged readers!

This was a really fun book! It follows a group of teenagers as they compete in a reality TV cooking show. Not only do they have the stress of having to cook their best, but the pressures put on them from the producer to act certain ways makes their life outside the kitchen complicated.

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to be on reality TV, you should check out this book. It is much more about reality TV life, living in a fancy apartment with fellow cast members, being given clothes to wear, roles to play, and constently wondering if this is their last day on the show, than it is about any specific aspects of cooking.

The show Schmitt created, Top Teen Chef, is very similar to the actual reality show, Top Chef, but it sounds like it would be an exciting show to watch and it definitely made for a fun and engrossing book!