Book Review - Knives, Seasoning, & A Dash of Love by Katrina Kwan

Knives, Seasoning, & A Dash of Love by Katrina Kwan

Thank you to Lake Country Press/Xpresso Book Tours for sharing an advance reader's copy with me in exchange for an honest review! I was so excited when I saw this book cover because it instantly drew me in. I had yet to read a chef/kitchen romance story but I love the idea because it reminds me of a Hallmark movie. 

Alexander Chen is a famous chef who hires a sous chef, Eden Monroe, who may or may not actually be qualified for the job. And it doesn't help that she realizes that she knew him from back when she went to culinary school for all of two weeks. She remembers though, that back then, he went by the name Shang and was sweet and friendly. On Eden's first day working at La Rouge, the restaurant where Alexander is the head chef, she realizes that Alexander is way different from the charming Shang she remembers. But Eden needs this job. Even though she's unqualified, her work ethic and raw talent allow her to be successful at her sous chef position. But she finds herself butting heads with Alexander at times due to their different styles of interacting with the other kitchen help. Alexander realizes, through Eden, that he doesn't have to be so uptight and strict with his staff. 

This book is so different from what I usually read. I don't normally choose contemporary romance books because they are so similar to other books in the genre. But this book was so unique. The way Kwan wrote made me feel like I was right there in the kitchen with Alexander and Eden. And the relationship development between them felt very natural. My only complaint with this book is that I feel like the 5-year time skip at the end was unnecessary. It was kind of a cute way to wrap up the story of their relationship, but I felt as though it didn't add much.

Overall, such a cute story and I'd absolutely recommend it to those looking for a cute romance with a HEA. The release day will be December 19, 2023!