In the Raw

In the Kitchen #1

by Eileen Griffin, Nikka Michaels

If you can’t take the heat…

James Lassiter has had a crush on fellow culinary student Ethan Martin for three years, but has never had the guts to make a move. Putting himself out there is hard, especially when under the thumb—and wallet—of his overbearing parents. Now that bad boy chef Ethan—who is always vying with Jamie for best in class—is struggling with the pastry course, Jamie suddenly has a reason to reach out.

Ethan doesn’t mean to be an ass—okay, so mostly he does—but even though he’s secretly hot for Jamie, he sure as hell doesn’t want help with pastry. Ever since his dad walked out, Ethan has been the one to hold things together and he’s done fine on his own. Except that he can’t get his cake to rise.

Jamie could be the answer to what Ethan’s been missing his whole life—someone to depend on. But with the two competing for the same scholarship, things suddenly get too hot to handle. And if Jamie finds the strength to go for what he wants, he isn’t about to settle for what he needs.

In the Raw is the first book in the In the Kitchen series. Stay tuned for book two, In the Fire, available in November 2014 from Carina Press.

85,000 words

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, M M Contemporary, Food, Contemporary Romance, LGBT

209 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

Eileen Griffin lives in the Southwest but loves to travel and has spent many summers crossing Europe with nothing but a backpack on her back. She enjoys TexMex, lives for good wine, and has a certain penchant for purple unicorns.

She loves reading all genres of books, but her current obsession is writing m/m with lots of boy kissing.

The novella Chasing Matt, with co-author Nikka Michaels, was her first published work. Eileen's other works include: "Dinner For Two", the short story, "Claiming Ayden" which is part of Evernight's Alpha's Claim M/M Anthology, In The Raw, In The Fire, and In The Distance published by Carina Press (with Nikka Michaels), Cooper Mountain: Stripped Bare (also co-written with Nikka Michaels)from Evernight Publishing, and the short story "Lost And Found" which was part of the Love's Landscapes Event via the Goodreads M/M Romance Group.

Reviews

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I need to put this out there first … if you want a story that ends in conclusion, better wait until book 2. Because this one didn’t even have a Happy-For-Now ending in my opinion. It ended with a “to-be-continued” scene. Since I didn’t know beforehand that the book would be part of a series and their story would probably be concluded in book 2, I was slightly annoyed. It influenced my reading experience, which resulted in my rating as well. What could I say, I felt slightly duped too. Cliffhangers are evil!

Anyway, let’s get back to the story itself. The story had good premise – and if you are food lovers, you might enjoy the setting of culinary school and how these characters are involved in competition to get cooking scholarship. The story is written from both the young men’s perspective. We get Ethan, the bad boy, who is a star in cooking (because he can do whatever he wants with the ingredients) but not so much in baking (because he needs to follow rules!). While Jamie is the Golden Boy, coming from a conservative family who also has a restaurant business. Jamie is not out when the story starts, even if he has been crushing on Ethan.

I admit that as the story went, I ended up having more sympathy towards Jamie. His family was controlling – the kind of rich family who thought that the rest of the working class people as beneath them. His father couldn’t understand why Jamie wanted to be in culinary school when he could easily get a job in the family’s restaurant. Not to mention that they were homophobic and Jamie faced ultimatum when they found out about his sexuality. So when Jamie defied his parents’ wishes, held his head up high and determined to be successful on his own two feet, I was very, VERY proud of him. Jamie definitely showed the best progress in this story.

Ethan, on the other hand, was slightly more unlikable. I thought he was rather quick to judge and temperamental and could act like a total jackass. I thought maybe because Ethan was rather insecure, what with the difference in their economic level and all, plus he first thought that Jamie was straight and it frustrated the hell out of him because he secretly hot for the Golden Boy. Still, I was annoyed with his attitude several times – I wish I could go inside my Kindle page and slapped him in the head. He did redeem himself in the end though. But yeah, compared to Jamie, I liked him less.

So bottom line, it was a nice set-up story, but since the ending wasn’t a closure, I could only give this my 3-stars rating at the moment. It will be interesting to see how the two develop over the years since book 2 seems to be set-up eight years later.







The review is based on ADVANCED UNCORRECTED PROOFS provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required. I assume any error will be edited and cleaned for the published version.

[Mandi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Two of my favorite things - boys kissing and food. I was excited to see a m/m romance that featured two guys in culinary school. Chefs are known to have hot tempers - throw in some spicy cooking and things would surely be hot, hot hot.

Except not, not, not.

Jamie comes from a very wealthy family who own a chain of restaurants. He is expected to work for them after he graduates from culinary school, but he really wants to do his own thing. People in school see him as a snob and as someone who gets to call in favors to his family anytime he wants. There is a competition coming up at the school to win a scholarship to study for a year in Paris. Jamie sees this as an opportunity to get away from his parents and show people he can make it on his own. But first he needs to win.

Jamie has lusted after his classmate Ethan for three years. Ethan is an amazing cook, but a poor baker. He is also supposed to be a big jerk ("suppose to" being key, I'll get into that in a minute). Ethan and his sister are both in the class and as Ethan struggles with the baking class, Jamie and his sister offer help. Ethan accepts it grudgingly and eventually Ethan and Jamie admit they have feelings for each other.

I have three big issues with this book. First, in the blurb and in the story, Ethan is supposed to be a big jerk. He thinks this of himself, people tell him he is a jerk - but I honestly never felt like he was. He has a bit of a short temper, but he is never outright mean to Jamie. He has pent-up secret lust which might put him on edge, but he didn't come across as that angry. Yet, when he would have an interaction with his sister or Jamie, they would come away with - gosh he is so mean! But I never felt that way.

Second, the romance just didn't do anything for me. It lacked chemistry and a spark. There was no fire in the kitchen. No biscuits were burning. No one got spanked by a spatula. What the heck? No, but really, the romance fell very flat for me. I couldn't find any reason to be excited that they were falling for each other.

And finally, the culinary aspect. Maybe I've watched too much Masterchef or Top Chef (by the way, can someone write a Gordon Ramsey hero please?) but Ethan was super clueless when it comes to baking. I get baking and cooking are very separate in the culinary world, but if he's been in class all these years, and he doesn't know what a springform pan is, or how to soften cream cheese (he wanted to put it in the microwave) - really? I expected him (and Jamie) to be much more...advanced. This felt like a very basic cooking class. Again, this is just my take on it - but as a reader, I expected more.

Rating: C-

[Chris, the Dalek King · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan Martin’s crush on James Lassiter is just downright annoying. Not only is Jamie a Golden Boy-–with all the money and family connections to make that oh so special shine sparkle-–but he is also kicking Ethan’s butt in the pastry section at school. So you can see why the fact that Ethan gets all heart-flusterey around Jamie is rather annoying. Because Ethan is no one’s golden boy. He and his sister are having to work their asses off to put themselves thru culinary school. And where Jamie is all golden skinned goodness with a bright and shiny smile, Ethan is a tattooed antisocial grump. A tattooed antisocial grump that kills in the kitchen, but still, nowhere near as perfect as Jamie.

What Ethan doesn’t know is that the shine on his golden boy isn’t so perfect-–or that his annoying crush is completely mutual. But to get involved with Jamie means he would have to trust him…and yeah, that isn’t going to be so easy. Even if having Jamie in his life makes all the other shit a little bit easier.

Do not read this book when you are hungry. Just don’t do it. You will end up staring morosely into your fridge, bemoaning the complete lack of wonderfully yummy food. Just find yourself a bowl of chocolate covered pretzels or something before you crack open this book. You will thank me later.

I quite enjoyed this. I love a good cooking story, and while I should probably stay away from books that make me crave cheesecake more than already do (I cried during that scene-–just, it was so sad. No cheesecake should have to die like that), I loved the various foods that popped up in this book.

And Ethan’s sister was great. I don’t know how she has lived with him for this long and not hit him over the head with heavy kitchen implements, but she must have a very forgiving nature. Because Ethan is an asshole. A lovable asshole, but a grade-A ass nonetheless. I get where he is coming from, but man, the dude is cooking for you, there is no need to get your bitch on just because you think he fancies your sister. Which he soooo doesn’t–-and Ethan would know that if he stopped trying to kill (and/or fuck) Jamie with just the power of his eyes.

Also liked the competition aspect of this book, and how it ended up. I wasn’t quite sure who I wanted to end up with the scholarship, in the end, but I think it got it right. And even if this books ends with a HFN, with them having to be split up for six months, it also gave a good enough resolution that I didn’t feel cheated (it might also help that I already have book two on my kindle ready for me to read!).

My one major issue with this book has to do with the dueling 1st person povs. I lost count of the number of times I forgot whose pov was currently up. The voices were just too similar, and I was constantly having to go back and remind myself who was talking this time. And it didn’t help that I kept forgetting who was who (case and point: my first draft of this review had Ethan and Jamie switched around. dammit!). Ethan was Jamie, or Jamie was Ethan…it was distracting at the very least. I know each change in pov was signaled at the top of the chapter, but my brain is like a sieve sometimes, and it would have been nice to have a bit more variation in the povs, so that it is obvious who is speaking at all times.

And while this did tend to flirt with melodrama quite a few times, they also didn’t let their idiocy carry on for very long, so I can forgive them that one. Though if they ever have any hopes of making it thru the next six months they are going to have to learn some freaking communication skills.

I did enjoy this though, and I am really glad that I have book two already. Going to really enjoy seeing where Jamie and Ethan go from here. And god, I really hope Reed gets his comeuppance. Him and Jamie’s no-good parents. Assholes with money are sometimes the worst assholes of all.


This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.

[Steph's Romance Book Talk · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars / 5 Steam Fans

James and Ethan are attending the same culinary school when they find themselves in competition for the senior year scholarship. One comes from wealth and one has to work for everything he has; add in their overwhelming sexual tension, a matchmaking sister, and you have a sweet, sexy journey. The one thing I disliked is that this is a book 1 of a series of trilogy so there is no HEA in this book.

This specific video review will be included in the October 2019 wrap-up.

For other video book reviews check out my YouTube channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.

(Review may be edited at a later date)

[Ersilia Stecchi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stelle e speriamo nel seguito

[Cronache di Betelgeuse · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recensione pubblicata su Cronache di Betelgeuse

La competizione tra i cuochi può diventare bollente, soprattutto se scatta anche la scintilla dell’amore. Tra i banchi di scuola, alla ricerca della perfezione e di una borsa di studio per realizzare il proprio sogno, due ragazzi scoprono che i loro sentimenti possono unirli con grande dolcezza.

Ethan è la voce narrante del libro, colui che ci introduce nella vicenda e ci mostra il retroscena di una scuola di cucina. Lui è abituato a fare tutto da solo, senza dare confidenze agli estranei. Preferisce rimanere chiuso in sé stesso, piuttosto che rischiare ed essere ferito da qualcuno. Avvicinandosi a Jamie scoprirà come che esistono altre persone, oltre a sua sorella, che tengono a lui e che non sono intenzionate a fargli del male.

Jamie è il punto di vista alternativo a quanto succede, con un carattere più pacato, insicuro ma desideroso di riuscire a dimostrare le sue qualità. La sua famiglia è molto ingombrante, soprattutto per il nome e il decoro che è necessarie mantenere. Jamie invece vorrebbe sentirsi libero di vivere la sua vita, di dimostrare il suo valore e di essere valutato solo per le sue capacità. Il rapporto con Ethan gli dimostrerà che può essere una persona autonoma, che può affrontare la vita senza dover sempre rendere conto alla sua famiglia.

Le ricette sono il filo conduttore della trama, dolci e stuzzicanti, in grado di accompagnarci nell’evoluzione del rapporto tra i due ragazzi. La scuola che stanno affrontando sembra quasi essere il coronamento dei loro sogni. Entrambi sono bravi dietro ai fornelli e hanno bisogno solo del giusto riconoscimento.

Nonostante il libro faccia parte di una serie, si può considerare quasi auto conclusivo. Arrivati all’ultima pagina infatti, oltre ad avere una gran voglia di dolci, si ci può ritenere soddisfatti di come si è evoluta la relazione tra i due personaggi principali, senza avere la sensazione che la trama sia stata troppo precipitosa o con punti in sospeso.

[DaisyGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 (4.0) Stars despite the cliffhanger

That's right, let me put that out there right at the start. This book ends on a to-be-continued note so plan on reading books 1 and 2 back-to-back, unless you're a masochist in which case carry on with your bad self! I, however,prefer need some closure. I didn't get Jamie at times which is surprising because Ethan is the surly, unpredictable one. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the little foodie community the authors created and I'm looking forward to more.

Bottom line: Moving on to book 2.

[Roger - president of NBR United - · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jamie Lassiter is a poor little rich kid who doesn't want what his parent want for him. Ethan is the orphan bad boy who takes care of his younger sister. they are two of the top students at the Culinary Institute. Ethan who is more Fly by the seat of the pants is having problem with the pastry classes. Jamie finally come out to his parents who basically disowns him. They are competing for the same scholarship and Ethan when asked why he should get it basically take the opportunity to tell the judges that Jamie deserves it more than he does.

[Sabrina (Soter) Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Deglutii forte quando venni colpito da quella mostruosità. Ero innamorato di lui. «Non ci nascondiamo più, eh?» mormorai.
Arrossì quando si rese conto che eravamo circondati dai nostri compagni di classe, dagli insegnanti e da un nutrito gruppo di genitori. «Sì, credo di avere superato quella fase.»
Risi, incapace di togliergli gli occhi di dosso. «Ti amo, Jamie Lassiter.»"

Onestamente la storia era iniziata sotto i migliori auspici: avevamo il ragazzo povero ma talentuoso in cerca di riscatto, il ragazzo ricco e appassionato in cerca della sua identità, una sorella/amica divertente e comprensiva e ovviamente tanti piatti deliziosi da cucinare XD Purtroppo però da queste ottime premesse è nata una storia piatta, un po' confusa e che fatica ad ingranare e proprio quando sembra prendere il volo...finisce sul più bello e con un finale non aperto...di più! D: Tra Ethan e Jamie ho preferito di più quest'ultimo, e la sua crescita e il suo costante impegno nel trovare il proprio posto nel mondo mi hanno colpita...e poi, diciamolo, Ethan più di una volta era da prendere a schiaffi! (anche se si è riscattato in parte con il grande gesto di generosità finale) XD I due come coppia non mi hanno molto convinta e anche se "gli opposti si attraggono" in questo caso forse era meglio se fossero rimasti ognuno alla propria postazione XD Comunque sicuramente la penalizzazione più grossa viene dal finale...la storia infatti è troncata sul più bello molto malamente e sbirciando l'inizio del prossimo volume della serie ho notato due cose che da sempre detesto nei romanzi ossia un grande balzo temporale (parliamo di ANNI non di pochi mesi! anni che il lettore si è perso e dovrà sicuramente recuperare a forza di fastidiosi e frequenti flashback e questo solo nel caso migliore!) e la coppia che è scoppiata (quindi non solo sono passati anni ma tutte le centinaia di pagine che sono servite ai due per mettersi insieme sono finite dritte diritte nel cesso! D:). Inutile dire che questo non mi rende affatto ansiosa di leggere il prossimo volume XD

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book in a series about two guys in culinary school who are attracted to each other while competing for the same scholarship. It was written in alternating voice which I liked for this story. Ethan is the snarky, standoff-ish guy who is living with his sister while they're both trying to scrape together money for tuition and living expenses. Jamie is the rich guy who already has an in with his father's company. The only problem is he doesn't want it. He wants his own career as a chef. And he wants Ethan. The two fight the sexual tension as long as possible then come together in an intense relationship. Even though the two were complete opposites they actually fit together in all ways both giving up something in order to be together. I liked them together and can't wait for the next book in the series.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

[Denise H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's smoke...in and out of the kitchen ! James and Ethan have been in culinary school together for years, but now, they are finally admitting to themselves they are attracted to each other. Ethan and his sister were abandoned young and their love of coking saved their sanity. James is the rich guy whose parents want him to be in the corporate family office, and he wants to cook and be a great Chef. These guys are sizzling together. Deep characters and hot M/M sex, plus an interesting story make this a good read. I liked how different the guys were, with pierced and tatted Ethan, to smooth and creamy James. James parents are horrible, Ethan shows his true integrity, and in this cliffhanger, James goes to Paris to study, and Ethan must finish school and find work. Will they stay together when James gets back?
Highly entertaining ! ENJOY !!

[Feel The Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recensione a cura di Lucinda per Feel The Book

Ethan Martin ha ventidue anni, vive in uno sgangherato appartamento con la sorella Claire, di un anno più giovane, ed è un aspirante chef talentuoso. Il suo innato istinto per la combinazione degli ingredienti e la sua tecnica perfetta lo posizionano tra i primi studenti del suo corso. Unica pecca: la pasticceria. Dover sottostare alle regole di una stupida ricetta per la riuscita di un dolce non fa proprio per lui. Se poi a distrarlo c’è lui, la realizzazione del più semplice tra i dolci diventa un’impresa impossibile.
Il lui in questione è Jamie Lassiter, rampollo di una famiglia che da generazioni si occupa di ristorazione industriale. Cresciuto senza affetto e tra mille imposizioni, frequenta il corso di cucina nella speranza di poter un giorno avere un ristorante tutto suo. Si muove con destrezza tra i fornelli, non ha punti deboli, eccetto uno: Ethan. Da tre anni prova una forte attrazione per lui, l’unica persona a non essersi avvicinata per chiedere di intercedere per un colloquio presso l’azienda di suo padre, o attirato dai suoi conti correnti. Ancora due semestri e le loro strade si divideranno. Jamie vuole conoscere lo scontroso, lunatico, burbero aspirante chef, capire cosa si nasconde dietro ai piercing, la pelle tatuata e al suo atteggiamento da duro.
La fortuna gira dalla sua parte quando l’insegnante del corso di pasticceria, Chef Boulanger, decide di farlo lavorare in coppia con Claire.

"Sentii Claire gridare e girai di scatto la testa. Le chiare erano schizzate ovunque, il mixer strideva e ronzava. Era andato fuori giri.
Mentre lei rideva, Lassiter l’aiutava a domare quel casino di zucchero schizzato in aria. Il sorriso che le indirizzò mi colpì dritto nelle parti basse. Una piacevole sensazione, che scomparve in fretta quando con delicatezza le tolse dal viso uno sbaffo di zucchero, sorridendole con affetto. Lei rispose con una risatina. Claire non rideva mai in quel modo. I miei occhi diventarono due fessure. Le piaceva Lassiter. Sentii un nodo allo stomaco."

In realtà Claire ha notato l’attrazione reciproca tra i due ragazzi e, con la scusa di dare una mano a Ethan a migliorare la sua tecnica in pasticceria, chiede a Jamie di aiutare il fratello con qualche lezione extra dopo la scuola: i Martin possono contare solo sui loro lavori part-time e i sussidi scolastici per finire la scuola, e la borsa di studio messa in palio per gli studenti dell’ultimo anno garantirebbe ad Ethan di potersi concentrare solo sulla cucina, invece di sfinirsi in turni massacranti nel ristorante della scuola.
Con molta ritrosia da parte di Ethan, i due ragazzi cominciano a frequentarsi, migliorando di molto i risultati del lunatico aspirante chef. L’attrazione che prova per Jamie diventa sempre più forte, soprattutto quando si accorge che il ragazzo non ha niente a che spartire con i genitori gretti e omofobi.
Ma proprio quando i due si avvicinano e Ethan comincia seriamente a valutare l’idea di avere una relazione con Jamie, i Lassiter cambiano gli equilibri minacciando il figlio di escluderlo dalla famiglia. Deve lasciare il corso di cucina ed entrare nel ramo finanziario dell’azienda per continuare ad avere accesso ai suoi fondi, in caso contrario dovrà arrangiarsi.
L’unica speranza di Jamie per realizzare il suo sogno è vincere la borsa di studio, la stessa che Ethan vuole così disperatamente…

"Jamie aprì e richiuse la bocca diverse volte e deglutì forte prima di rispondere: “Mamma. Papà. Lui è il mio compagno di scuola, Ethan. Ieri sera abbiamo lavorato fino a tardi su un progetto, così è rimasto a dormire qui. Sapere come vanno a finire queste cose…”.
Scioccato, alzai gli occhi su di lui e un dolore inaspettato mi lacerò il petto. Era la prima persona con cui sentivo di avere una specie di legame. La prima persona con la quale, inconsciamente, mi ero esposto alla possibilità di qualcosa di più. Ma mi aveva ingannato. Mi aveva fatto credere di essere diverso da chiunque altro e che, nonostante le sue origini, io e lui eravamo simili.
Interruppi il bacio e appoggiai la fronte contro la sua. “Questo. È per questo che sono qui. Nessun altro mi fa sentire così.” Come se fossi capace di qualsiasi cosa. Di essere chiunque desideri. Di essere degno di tutto questo."

Il romanzo, in piena atmosfera Masterchef, viene narrato dalle voci alternate dei due protagonisti. Ethan è costantemente arrabbiato con il mondo, nasconde dietro al suo aspetto da duro la paura di venire ferito e abbandonato, cicatrici infantili mai rimarginate da quando il padre ha lasciato la famiglia. Jamie ha in apparenza un carattere più tranquillo, ma è volitivo e testardo quanto l’uomo di cui è innamorato. Il suo doloroso coming out con i Lassiter porta con sé tutta la sua voglia di libertà, di fare ciò che desidera realmente per la prima volta in tutta la vita.
Il finale rimane aperto, con uno dei ragazzi in partenza per Parigi, dove frequenterà le lezioni dell’ultimo semestre, lasciando entrambi in uno stato di struggimento per la mancanza che sentiranno l’uno dell’altro.
È un bel romanzo, dove l’attrazione e il superare le proprie paure la fanno da padrone.

[Chandra · Rating 1 out of 5]

Amazing how a book can be ruined by just the epilogue. Tragic. 😪

[Jaycee Edward · Rating 4 out of 5]

I probably need to start this review with a disclaimer. I love these girls: Eileen Griffin and Nikka Michaels. If they write it, I’m reading it. Period. They each are amazing writers in their own rights, but put them together, and the result is dynamite. I can’t describe it, but the chemistry between their characters just sizzles when they write together. In The Raw is no exception.

I enjoyed the culinary background of this story. That whole world kind of fascinates me anyway and I drew my visuals from “Master Chef” quite often while reading. Jamie, the Golden Boy and Ethan, the bad boy, are both students and couldn’t be more different. The only thing they have in common is their love of cooking. They are oil and water in almost every way. I admit to getting a little impatient in the first part of the book while Jamie and Ethan fought… well… everything, actually. They fought working together at school, they fought verbally, they fought their attraction to each other, they fought Jamie’s parents… Don’t get me wrong – it was well written and entertaining as heck watching the banter – another thing these girls excel at writing – but I’m just an impatient sort. I like the MCs to come together a little quicker, BUT, I should’ve known to have faith in Eileen and Nikka. All that tension made for some pretty hot scenes when Jamie and Ethan finally did get together. Trust me. Eileen and Nikka rule when it comes to emo and love scenes. I can’t think of anyone who does it better.

Normally, I find the secondary females characters in a M/M story annoying. Not Claire. Oh, my gosh, I adored Claire! And I loved how easy her relationship with Ethan is and that she was the biggest cheerleader when it came to Jamie and Ethan getting together. And, then, oh, how she struggled to keep them together:

“Please for the love of all that is holy tell me you got down on your knees and begged forgiveness until the end of time,” she mumbled when she answered the phone.” “Well, I got down on my knees…” I trailed off, just to mess with her. Seconds later, fake barfing noises had me laughing.”

I said it before, Griffin and Michaels are masters at building emotion. When reading their words, you genuinely believe these two characters cannot live without each other. Like, literally. They. Will. Cease. To. Breathe.

“…right now, as we ran across the dimly lit garage to the main terminal, my mind fought to come up with any excuse to stay. To stay in the only place and with the only person who had ever felt like home.”

Yeah, that scene put a huge, freaking lump in my throat. But, while Griffin and Michaels love to watch us squirm, they always show a little mercy and sprinkle some sweet chuckles in there to soften the blows.

“I know you don’t have a Yoda phone set up yet, but try to find some way to let me know you got there safely, okay?” I chuckled softly. “It’s Vodafone.” He wrapped his arms tighter around me and sighed. “Whatever…”

I wouldn’t say In The Raw ends on a cliffhanger, but I will say I’m glad to know the sequel, In The Fire comes out soon. You could read this as a standalone, however, you won’t want to. I guarantee you will want more, MUCH more of Jamie and Ethan.

[Christi Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review:
I really enjoyed this book. This story is about two men in their junior year of culinary school. Ethan is in the school with his sister Claire and they are struggling to make it all work financially. Jamie is the son of a millionaire restauranteur trying to fit the mold his parents have designed while also chasing his own passions...which doesn't work. All three of them are in the pastry section of the course. For Ethan who's a natural cook that can throw anything together, pastries are awful. He doesn't cook with recipes...he cooks with intuition...something that doesn't work when baking.

Claire and Jamie are partners in the course and come up with a plan to help Ethan to keep him from failing out...whether he wants it or not...and he really doesn't. And they all become friends which ultimately leads to more for Jamie and Ethan.

This is a book about two men on the cusp of really starting their lives. For Jamie especially, he's discovering who he is and who he can become. Both men are extremely talented and their romance was beautiful to read. But it's not without it's trauma. Jamie's parents don't know he's gay and in the end, both men really need the scholarship that they are competing for. And regardless of who wins it, it means 6 months in Paris for the winner...apart. So really...no one wins.

There is a lot of drama and a lot of ups and downs, but the book was a great read and very entertaining. Ethan is tattooed, brash, and in your face. Jamie is more refined and reserved, but the two of them are magic together. I also really enjoyed the addition of Claire to the story. She gives them both an in-your-face honest perspective when they get too caught up in their own emotional drama to see what is really going on between them. I just really liked it. The culinary school setting was great and interesting. I enjoy foodie books and this one excelled at that side of it. The fact that the men are having to work together while at the same time, compete, made for really good drama.

Stop reading here if you don't want a slight spoiler...

The epilogue was heartbreaking. Even more so because book #2 comes out next month and the story description gives a huge spoiler for what happens in the time period between the two books. I shed tears at the end and hope for happier days to come between Ethan and Jamie. I love them!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Becky Condit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a "thing" for chef romances and In the Raw does not disappoint one single bit. I watch all those cooking shows and competitions on television, and whether they are staged or not doesn't matter to me, it's the intensity of the fight and creativity that is attractive to me. Throw in a couple of hot gay guys and that’s a story I’m probably going to enjoy.
Jamie, the wealthy scion of a chain restaurant family is called Golden Boy by his sometimes jealous rival Ethan. Jamie, Ethan, and Ethan’s sister Claire are students at a prestigious culinary school. Ethan doesn’t have a filter on his mouth when it comes to Jamie and picks fights where none should exist. He’s been top chef throughout their time in the school kitchens until the rotation puts them in the baking department, where imagination matters less than science. Follow the recipe and you’ll be successful. Try to invent something new and chances are you will fail, at least at first. Claire is the peacemaker among the trio but even she is unable to patch things together when Ethan says the wrong thing too many times.
Ethan is out as a gay man but Jamie is a closeted gay man because of the threats of his homophobic parents to cut him off from family funds he needs to complete his education his way. Rather than being a trained chef, Jamie’s father wants him to be a soulless businessman in his restaurant empire.
When a scholarship that Ethan, Clair, and even Jamie need to complete their education is at stake in a cook-off style contest, Ethan seems the logical winner until everyone realizes that the baking skills needed to complete the competition are beyond Ethan’s current abilities.
As Jamie and Ethan fight for supremacy in the kitchens and also against their mutual desire for each other, Claire struggles to keep them on track for the competition and for a relationship. Then she gets sick and is sidelined, leaving the boys to figure out what they really want and how to get it.
Ms. Griffin and Ms. Michaels are wonderful authors independently, but together they light a fire of emotion and sexual tension that drew me in and kept me glued to the book until I finished it. In the Raw doesn’t end as a cliffhanger but it does leave an opening for the second book of the series, which I will start immediately after finishing In the Raw. Brava, ladies! This is a winning series!

[Elyxyz Elyxyz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vi avverto: se siete a dieta (o se avete fame, ma non avete cibo sottomano), non leggete questa storia, perché finirete per ingrassare solo immaginando i meravigliosi cibi che vi sono descritti.
Detto questo, il libro mi è piaciuto da matti. Mi ha conquistata quest’ambientazione diversa dal solito e la storia di Ethan e Jamie è appassionante e splendidamente raccontata. I due protagonisti hanno delle bellissime caratterizzazioni, molto umani nelle paure, nei dubbi, nelle loro reazioni.
In apparenza, solo il sogno di diventare chef li accomuna, ma in realtà si incastrano a perfezione.
Ethan, il ragazzo cresciuto in povertà, il gatto randagio, scontroso, ruvido, sboccato, ma geniale in cucina, dove improvvisa creando capolavori. E James, il Golden Boy, cuoco talentuoso, bello, ricco e con un futuro assicurato fin dalla culla, con una vita già programmata dai genitori: chi amare, chi frequentare, che lavoro fare... Jamie sembra avere tutto e invece è stritolato dagli obblighi.
E poi c’è Claire, la sorellina di Ethan, l’unica amica di Jamie. Il collante fra i due e un personaggio secondario delizioso (come Chef B).
Qual è l’ingrediente fondamentale del titolo? Secondo me è il coraggio. Il coraggio in tutte le sue forme: quello di osare, di lottare per realizzare i propri sogni, di ribellarsi ad una vita preconfezionata, di essere se stessi, di abbandonare le certezze per tentare; ma anche il coraggio di compiere scelte difficili e sacrificarsi e, soprattutto, il coraggio di amare, di fidarsi, di mettere il proprio cuore in mano ad un’altra persona.
Il libro parla di tutto questo e lo fa con realismo e un buon ritmo, dove amore e tensione non mancano e si resta incollati fino alla fine per sapere cosa succederà.
Questo è il primo volume di una trilogia, quindi bisognerà aspettare per vedere come prosegue la relazione di Ethan e James, ma è una lettura che consiglio caldamente.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raise your hand if you find handsome men mastering the kitchen hot?

Okay, good. I'm not the only one.

IN THE RAW follows bad boy Ethan and good boy Jamie as they work their way through a semester of culinary school and a competition for an exclusive scholarship in Paris. Ethan's an intuitive cook, incredibly talented but terrible at following directions — which makes the current semester's pastry class particularly challenging. Meanwhile, Jamie is trying to figure out how to navigate Ethan's prickly nature in order to get to know him, all the while dealing with the expectations of his overzealous parents. Through a series of friendly and not-so-friendly encounters and misfires, Ethan and Jamie finally connect.

Oh boy, do they connect.

One of the things I loved about this story was that despite the hotheadedness of youth, the guys didn't let their competitive natures dictate their actions. They connected on a deep level and they both truly wanted what was best for each other. Even though they were both up for the same scholarship, they didn't let that get in the way of their love, and in fact, they seemed more like a team working together than competitors.

Ethan was exactly the type of hero I fall for: he's got a huge amount of defences, normally manifesting as snark and snide comments, but underneath, he's so incredibly vulnerable. And Jamie...poor Jamie. Out of the two heroes, I'd have to say Jamie is the stronger one because even when he was faced with his world entirely changing, he never faltered or gave up.

This book is hot, drama-filled, and a wonderful journey as both men find their footing in the world they want for themselves. I am counting down the days until the sequel because I must know why eight years has passed!

Congrats to Nikka and Eileen on a fantastic start to this series.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very engaging and enjoyable

I wasn't sure how well I'd like this, as I am not a foodie, nor do I enjoy cooking. But I stayed invested through the majority of the story. It did become slightly tedious in the first half. There was so much bickering and crude remarks from Ethan that I was irritated with his character. Jamie was also rather annoying with his closeted angst. I felt he could have done a lot more to gain independence long before he actually did. However the characters were still well depicted, even if I didn't always like them.

I was much more intrigued with the second half and anticipating how the scholarship competition would be resolved. I also enjoyed seeing the relationship finally develop. It was good to see Jamie's character gain confidence and resolve, and to watch Ethan become human. I do wish I had counted how many times they had heavy-lidded eyes, though. Very overused description. The sex scenes were fairly good, although one switched POV right in the middle and spoiled it for me. I don't care much for 1st person narratives and I didn't think the alternating POV's did a lot for the story. But it was enjoyable overall and makes me want to continue the series.

[T.A. McKay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Copy from netgalley

What can I say about this story....I will start with I really, really liked it!
A love story about two people finding each other but since they are from very different worlds they like each other from afar. What follows is a story of almost cat and mouse as they try to work out if the like each other. One guy is truthful with everyone about who he is and one isn't out with his family.
What can you do when your family controls you, making you live a life you don't want just so you don't shame them. Can you ever go after what you truly want?
This is the story to read if you want to find out! Great story with likeable, real characters! I would recommend to everyone!!

[Anke]

Started Sept. 9, update Oct. 25:

Undecided what to do with you :( It started out quite nice, in fact it was so nice that I bought the following books as well. Yap, and then I learned that between the end of this book and the beginning of the next one there is a gap of 8 years. Yap, and that took all my reading fun away. And I cannot bring myself to return to you, sorry book. I'm not even sure, whether I'll do it sometime in the future.

[Jenn C · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars ~ Fairly angst free read. It was nice to see the attraction grow - although both were in lust with each other from afar from the get go - with the help of Claire, they got together after getting to know each other a bit. WARNING - there is no ending here....just a to be continued.

[Zurry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Non mi è mai successo di leggere 254 pagine tutte d'un fiato, per caso ho iniziato stamattina, non avendo con me l'altro libro che sto leggendo e niente mi ha completamente rapita. Ethan e Jamie mi sono entrati dentro. Belli, sexy, competitivi, ottimi chef (da farmi venire l'acquolina in bocca), divertenti, tontoloni, e molto ma molto passionali!! :D
Tutto il libro è adorabile e per ogni volta che avrei voluto prendere a sberle entrambi (forse un po' di più Ethan) c'è ne sono state altre per cui avrei voluto abbracciarli entrambi o farli una standing ovation....
Ho odiato tantissimo i genitori di Jamie e Reed mentre ho amato alla follia Clare e ho riso tantissimo grazie a lei.
Gli ultimi due capitoli mi hanno fatto sciogliere come un gelato al sole e ho versato anche qualche lacrimuccia... Ethan e Jamie sono davvero tenerisissimi e decisamente bollenti insieme.
a cosa che ho amato di più è che nonstante la competizione, questi due si spronano a vicenda dandosi forza l'un l'altro.
Non vedo l'ora di leggere il secondo, sperando poi che venga tradotto prestissimo anche il terzo.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that if this had been a stand-alone book, I probably wouldn't have ever read it! BUT... I wanted to read In the Fire (cover really doesn't work for me) and In the Distance so I pushed through this one and jumped right into the whole HEA that am expecting from In the Fire!!!

[Purr More · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know the old saying...if you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen. This is true of this story. The heat is definitely in THIS kitchen.

This story is about Ethan Martin aka "bad boy" who works hard for everything he has, which isn't much, his sister Claire and James "Jamie" Lassiter, the Golden Boy who has it all, at least for now. Ethan and Claire work extra shifts, intern at restaurants and save every penny they can earn just to survive but are okay with their situation knowing they have each other. Their relationship is a true family and they rely on and care for each other. Jamie has a much larger battle in his own life. Born into a wealthy family who has his future mapped out for him, even before asking him. What happens when Jamie decides what HE wants to do with his life? How supportive are his parents when they learn what HE wants to do in life?

All three characters are in culinary school learning to become chefs and competing for a prestigious scholarship to study in Paris. During their classes they learn the hard way, so to speak, how to work together. This means losing the attitude, getting past the stereotypes and truly getting to know each other. AND asking for help. Something that is very difficult for Ethan, the bad boy, "I can do it on my own, don't need your help" guy. Partners Jamie and Claire team up to help her brother so they can ALL succeed and learn, refreshing to read. But does Claire have an ulterior motive? Does she know something the boys don't know? And what students in their class want to sabotage the future chef's because they are naturally good.

During the story the characters grow within themselves and learn what it is they want in life and individually work to get it while being respectful and moral, unlike some of their classmates. Ethan's attitude sparks at times to match his character but he becomes more human, don't want to say softens up, but as he opens himself up he becomes nicer, easier to get along with. Ethan will even do something that will blow your mind, yet make you smile when you understand what it is and why. Bad guy turned good if you ask me. Jamie on the other hand, struggles with some deep personal issues and ends up having to make a very difficult decision, a life altering decision, and then has to follow-through with it. Scary stuff. This changes the entire path of his life. With the support of his friends, he tries to see if he can continue doing what he hopes he can do. Claire, even though she is in the background, is supportive of her brother Ethan and culinary partner Jamie. She is the reason they learned to work together and the reason they both succeed in school. I loved her smart wit and sense of humor.

The reference to culinary background was a refreshing change to read. Obviously well researched and the authors have knowledge of cooking and baking. Some of the food references made me very hungry. How many times did we have to mention souffles? One of my favorites. And the reference to Nutella, brilliant. The added french from the head chef, Chef Boulanger, who even himself comes to respect the characters a little bit more throughout the story was a nice touch.

The emotions in the story run like a roller coaster. You almost want to get in Ethan's head and yell at him or push him, smack him or even punch him for being so obstinate at times. But that's what makes him so believable. Jamie, I just wanted to hug and tell him everything would be alright. It brought tears to my eyes in some scenes when he felt helpless and down. While reading some of the scenes I found myself with the same lump in my throat as the characters. But Claire brought the smile back or the chuckle when I read her lines.

The sex scenes were amazing and to be honest, just as I expected. Eileen and Nikka have always written M/M scenes very well, emotional, breath-taking and sensuous. I didn't expect anything less. Passionate and caring between characters yet hot and sexy as well. Details left little to the imagination. Beautiful!

I won't lie, I have always loved the writing of these two authors but love it most when they write together. Their styles compliment each other and their work turns into a beautiful story. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next story in the series called "In the Fire." What happens to Jamie, Ethan and Claire after 6 months of being apart?

[Nikyta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Blogger Girls.

Jamie and Ethan have been culinary classmates for three years and have crushed on each other just as long. Now as juniors, they’re competing to win a scholarship that won’t only pay for their tuition in their final year of culinary school but also give them the opportunity to work with the best chefs in Paris. But when Ethan’s struggle in their pastry course becomes obvious, Jamie takes it upon himself to give Ethan lessons even if he doesn’t want them in the hopes of finally acting on his desire to be with Ethan. With their different backgrounds and their obvious love of food, can these boys get passed the struggles that come not only with school but with family and their own emotions, too?

I’m very conflicted over my feelings for this book. On one hand, I liked the premise of the story. The whole competitors vying for the same scholarship plus the bad boy/golden boy and rich/poor aspect of the characters gave the story a bit of intrigue. I liked that Jamie and Ethan were so different in not just social class but personality as well. Jamie is calm and collected, always serene and mellow while Ethan can easily be described as a hothead. He’s bad-tempered and doesn’t hold any punches when he decides to make you his target. They’re complete opposites with Jamie being able to charm everyone and Ethan being able to piss everyone off. I really liked that contrast and while, at times, they could be immature and firmly embraced the “we need to talk but let’s have sex first” strategy, I still liked that they found a great connection after years of yearning for one another.

Unfortunately, while I liked the characters, it was hard for me to really get into the story knowing that it wouldn’t end with them together. Sadly, if I had known this had a bittersweet ending, I wouldn’t have read it. I read romances because I want to see the characters end up together in the end so, for me, agreeing to review this and then finding out that it didn’t have a traditional HEA really put a damper on my enjoyment. This is a personal preferences and I’ll freely admit that knowing how it ended had a HUGE impact in my enjoyment to the point where it was hard for me to really let myself get into the story for fear that I’d come to love a book and then get brokenhearted with the ending (I’m not really one for crying my eyes out or angst).

Now, that’s not to say the book isn’t good. As I said, I enjoyed the premise and I liked the characters. If it had an HEA or even an HFN, I probably would have really liked this one. As it is, I didn’t let myself get into the story because I knew it ended bittersweet to the point that obviously something happens while one of them is in Paris because the sequel picks up 8 years later where it is noted they are NOT together. There were a few moments in the story that I questioned and couldn’t understand like when Reed tried to blackmail Jamie why Ethan didn’t just take the camera away from Reed when he was manhandling him because he was right there, it would have been extremely easy to put a stop to the threat before it got far enough to be blackmail. There were also one or two other instances that bothered me but nothing too extravagant.

Overall, my biggest issue was the ending. I just couldn’t let myself get into it because of that and that’s all on me and why I’m going with a neutral rating. I felt like the authors wrote a lovely story (sans ending) and had a good voice together. The characters were vastly different, a little immature at times, but definitely unique in their own way. Their conflicts and ultimate clashing were interesting to see play out.

While I might not have allowed myself to enjoy this one as much as I would have liked, I think others who like a bit of angst, unconventional endings and the rich/poor; bad boy/golden boy characteristics will enjoy this one. And while I couldn’t really get into this one, I bet I’ll be able to enjoy the sequel, In the Fire, much more knowing that after 8 years, these boys will end up together… as long as they DO end up together in an HEA LMAO.

[Helena Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received my copy from the publisher through Love Romances and More and rated it 4.5 stars.

Opposites attract maybe a cliché, it is definitely true in this book. At first glance Jamie Lassiter – Golden Boy – and Ethan Martin couldn’t be more different. The rich pampered Jamie appears to get everything thrown in his lap for nothing more than luck of birth while Ethan has had to battle life for years just to make sure he and his sister Claire kept a roof over their heads and food in their mouths.

As soon as you get to know the two young men a little bit better, it becomes clear things aren’t quite as clear cut. Jamie’s wealth comes with a price in the form of parents who won’t accept him for who he is, try to run his life for him and have his future planned out. Ethan’s tough and stand-offish attitude on the other hand, is his way of shielding himself from all the hurt he knows is waiting for him in the world. When the two come together they need each other to bring their hidden character traits to the forefront. And that is one of the things I really appreciated in this book; the characters are anything but one-sided. Jamie may appear shy and retreating, he is quite capable of standing up to the bullshit Ethan throws his way and knows how to take the initiative. Ethan’s softer and unselfish sides becomes clear in his relationship with his sister, Claire, and the things he is willing to do for Jamie.

Talking about Claire, she was a ray of sunshine in this book. She knows how to put Ethan in his place and keep him grounded with just a few well chosen words that show her deep love for him as much as her no-shit attitude.

And just in case I make this book sound like an angst-fest without relief, allow me to add there were quite a few laugh-out-loud moments in this book too. I’ll never look at a cake tin in quite the same way again.

If I’m perfectly honest I have to admit the first half of the book dragged a bit for me at times. The boys spent a bit too much time in their heads and not enough time with each other or communicating, for my liking. The second half of the book more than made up for that though. I can’t deny I had a pretty good idea of who exactly Jamie and Ethan were exactly because we’d been given that insight into their thoughts and feelings earlier on.

The relationship between Jamie and Ethan was a rollercoaster of angst, happiness and heartbreak. There wasn’t a boring moment once these two gave into the attraction between them. To say they were hot together would be a huge understatement; they were scorching. And I can’t stress enough how Ethan’s need to make everything perfect – not to say orgasmic – for Jamie gave me all the feels.

Now, I have seen a few people give out about the ending of this book in their reviews and I fully expected to join their chorus; I do not like cliff-hangers. But now that I’ve finished the book I have to say I disagree. While it is clear from the ending that Jamie and Ethan’s story is far from finished, it does end in a logical place and, for me at least, on a good, be it teary, note. The fact that I already have the second book on my Kindle may make it easier for me to say that, but I don’t think I’d have said anything else if I had a longer wait ahead of me.

Eileen Griffin and Nikka Michaels have once again proven their awesomeness as a writing team. Their boys leap off the page and fight their way into your heart. I’m delighted I have two more encounters with Jamie and Ethan to look forward to.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: This ARC was provided by Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

"In the Raw" is the first book in the In the Kitchen series by authors Eileen Griffin & Nikka Michaels. Readers are introduced to Ethan Martin and Jamie Lassiter, two culinary arts students who are both considered the best in their class but have different approaches, not just in terms of cooking, but in the way they carry themselves and deal with life. You would think two polar opposites would have nothing in common other than their love for cooking, but they're both hiding an attraction they've had for each other from the time they first met three years ago.

Ethan Martin hasn't had it easy but he carries with him a confidence that most would probably label cockiness when it comes to cooking in the kitchen. However, this talented student seems to have his own personal Waterloo in the form of baking...and when it comes to his feelings for his fellow student, the equally talented Jamie Lassiter. When Jamie offers to tutor him on his baking skills, Ethan isn't exactly thrilled, believing that Jamie is interested in his younger sister and fellow student, Claire, and the fact that he doesn't like being treated like a charity case.

Jamie Lassiter comes from a family that is known in the restaurant business and he's always been expected to join the company. The thing is, Jamie's always wanted to be a chef and his own person but he still hasn't been able to openly admit to them that he's gay and that he has not intention of following his father's footsteps. Being around Ethan makes Jamie realize just how comfortable the object of his affection is in his own skin and how he wants to be just like that...and to have Ethan return his feelings as well.

Ethan and Jamie obviously have their own personal issues that they need to get over in the story and it's interesting to see how being around one another opens their eyes to their own misconceptions about the other and how there's a lot for them to learn from each other, not just in cooking but in life in general. I liked that, even though there was an attraction from the beginning, neither seemed aware how mutual it was, so there wasn't this insta-love or insta-lust going on. Their relationship was tenuous and you can see how it developed over time. There was no rushing it, even though the book isn't overly long, so it progressed rather nicely. ^.^

I loved Ethan and Jamie but Claire, Ethan's sister and Jamie's baking class partner, deserves special mention because she was, after all, the voice of reason in the story. She was funny but also sensitive to what was going on between her brother and her friend. There was quite a bit of angst happening with Ethan and Jamie and having Claire say what was in my own head had me feeling less frustration had both guys continued to muddle along and stumble at every turn.

I enjoyed "In the Raw" but, heads up, fellow bookaholics! This book does end on a cliffhanger. The sequel, "In the Heat", is due for release in a month's time and is set eight years after the events of this first book. If you read the synopsis of the second book, you'll get an idea of what happened in between but, if you're like me, it'll whet your appetite (pun intended) for more Ethan and Jamie. ^.^ I'm going to give "In the Raw" four stars and will count the days until the sequel's release! ♥

[Dirty Laundry Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

ANG:

Wow. I love this book. I read that the authors said they were excited to combine a love story with food. I think I’ve been waiting for this book my entire life because I love romance and I love food. Win win!

The book tells the story of Ethan Martin, a sexy, tattooed, surly, bad boy, clawing his way to the top of culinary school in the hopes of earning a scholarship. He’s always worked hard to take care of his sister, Claire, and will let nothing stand in his way of earning this ticket to a future.

Next we meet Jaime Lassiter, a sweet, quiet, beautiful, blonde with a horribly lonely privileged lifestyle. People think Jaime has it all, but do not realize he’s trying to escape from his domineering parents and that this scholarship is his ticket to freedom.

The two guys seem to be polar opposites but cannot hide their attraction. Circumstance i.e. Claire; put them in a position where they have to work with each other to make it through their courses. It was a rare treat to read an m/m where the guys were so in their heads and warring with their feelings and emotions. My big complaint with m/f is usually the characters’ inner turmoil, and I don’t usually see that in m/m. I was pleasantly surprised to see these guys analyzing the situation and how their internal dialogue shaped their actions.

As with the majority of m/m reads … the sex in the book was off the chain, you guys. God. Really really hot. I have no new witty ways to describe the left-hand worthy scenes in this book, but trust me when I tell you that Jamie and Ethan are super sexy and you’ll want to read all about them. Damn. I love these guys.

All in all, this was a terrific read with a lot of angst and you will be waiting with bated breath to see who wins the scholarship, what sacrifices will be made, and whether love can bring two opposites together.

P.S. The name Jamie Lassiter kept making me think of my favorite golden god, Jaime Lannister, from the Game of Thrones. I wondered if it was a nod to GoT … and then later in the book there is a line where someone uses the name Lannister! I may have squeed.

TARAH:

I read this book on vacation. It is such a light and easy read, I went through it quickly.

Jamie and Ethan are just so goddamn endearing and sexy as hell. They seem like polar opposites, but opposites attract don’t they?

Both in dire need of a scholarship for different reasons, they are each other’s competition. They are oblivious that the other sees themselves as anything more. When things finally do heat up? Fucking yes please and thank you. I’m telling you… it is hot.

The characters are flawed and have great personalities. While the storyline is predictable, it doesn’t lessen your reading experience. I was really pleased with the writing and I was constantly in smiles or squirms from the story.

If you’re looking for a light, m/m romance to read full of passion and steam? Grab this.

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