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Taste of Love #2
Love on the Rocks
American chef Callie McGinn has always known what she wants: her own restaurant in a big European city, at least one Michelin star, and her name on a 30 Under 30 list of influential women in the food industry. So when she gets the opportunity to open a restaurant at a five-star resort on an obscure Greek island, she doesn’t think twice about accepting it.
But once she arrives, her new life is off to a rocky start. Her house is an ancient ruin, her neighbors are goats, and her island nemesis–the handsome, broody local doctor–is determined to put her on the next ferry back to Athens. He just won’t leave her alone, and neither will that pesky pang of desire she gets every time he’s around.
Nikos Laskaris has one goal: to put a stop to the construction of the mega-resort on the shores of his beloved island. And if that means making the new project manager as miserable as possible, so be it. The only problem is, he didn't expect the project manager to be a woman. . .and certainly not one who takes his breath away with her tantalizing curves, wicked sense of humor, and hard-headed determination to win the locals over with her magical food.
When they’re thrown together in a rainstorm, loathing turns to longing. Suddenly, Nikos is no longer chasing Callie away, but chasing after her.
Love on the Rocks is a contemporary rom-com, featuring an enemies-to-lovers romance, found family, banter, and open-door spice.
But once she arrives, her new life is off to a rocky start. Her house is an ancient ruin, her neighbors are goats, and her island nemesis–the handsome, broody local doctor–is determined to put her on the next ferry back to Athens. He just won’t leave her alone, and neither will that pesky pang of desire she gets every time he’s around.
Nikos Laskaris has one goal: to put a stop to the construction of the mega-resort on the shores of his beloved island. And if that means making the new project manager as miserable as possible, so be it. The only problem is, he didn't expect the project manager to be a woman. . .and certainly not one who takes his breath away with her tantalizing curves, wicked sense of humor, and hard-headed determination to win the locals over with her magical food.
When they’re thrown together in a rainstorm, loathing turns to longing. Suddenly, Nikos is no longer chasing Callie away, but chasing after her.
Love on the Rocks is a contemporary rom-com, featuring an enemies-to-lovers romance, found family, banter, and open-door spice.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2025
20 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 6, 2025
3.75 stars
This story was a lovely companion during a busy time. It's a light, fast-paced read, maybe a bit too fast at times, but it left me with that picturesque Greek island feeling I was hoping for.
Right from the start, you’re transported to a delightful island that feels almost tangible. You can sense the warmth of the sun, catch the aroma of mouthwatering dishes, and hear the gentle rhythm of waves nearby. The setting is more than just a frame; it breathes life into the narrative, infusing it with a touch of enchantment.
At the heart of it all are Callie and Nikos, two characters with strong chemistry from the very beginning. Callie is a confident, determined, plus-size chef chasing her dream of opening a Michelin-star restaurant. Nikos, the grumpy local doctor, sees her as the enemy and wants to shut down the project she’s working on.
Their relationship starts with lots of miscommunication and tension, classic enemies-to-lovers style. Some of their banter was genuinely fun to read. I especially loved Callie’s resilience; despite everything going wrong, she keeps going and doesn’t give up. Honestly, I’m not sure why she stayed on the island when it felt like the universe was against her, but I admired her persistence. I especially loved the scenes where she delved into local recipes and blended them with her own style—those culinary moments were a joy to read. I also liked that her name had a cute reason behind it, and not the usual “Greek name = Greek background” trope. It made her even more fun.
P.S. How did she manage to walk around the countryside in sandals without suffering? No wonder Nikos kept calling her out—she was seriously committed to avoiding proper shoes! 😂
Nikos felt like the island’s unofficial leader, completely focused on protecting it from outside interference. Behind all that grumpiness though, there’s a soft side, especially when it comes to Callie. I really enjoyed seeing him fall for her little by little. His deep connection to the island, even after spending years away, added so much depth to his character. And honestly, I was so glad Callie didn’t make things easy for him after everything he put her through. He deserved to work for it.
The pacing felt just right for a light summer read—quick, fun, and easy to get into. I also liked the added twist of the resort conflict; it gave the story an extra layer. That said, there were a few scenes where I wished for more emotional depth. Some moments flew by a little too fast, and I think slowing down could’ve made the characters’ feelings hit harder. Bonus points for the book excerpts and how Callie and Nikos used some of those moments in their own story. That was a sweet touch. Now I’m honestly curious... could we get a full story from One Week with the Greek someday?
Overall, this is a warm, feel-good romance with a dreamy setting and great characters. Maggie Deryn has written something light, heartfelt, and full of charm. Perfect for anyone looking for a summery escape with a little drama, food, and love. I didn’t give it 4 stars because, for me, the story occasionally lacks depth, and some moments, though enjoyable, feel a bit unrealistic. That’s why 3.75 felt like the right rating.
Big thanks to Luna Literary Management and N.J. Weeks for the eARC
This story was a lovely companion during a busy time. It's a light, fast-paced read, maybe a bit too fast at times, but it left me with that picturesque Greek island feeling I was hoping for.
Right from the start, you’re transported to a delightful island that feels almost tangible. You can sense the warmth of the sun, catch the aroma of mouthwatering dishes, and hear the gentle rhythm of waves nearby. The setting is more than just a frame; it breathes life into the narrative, infusing it with a touch of enchantment.
At the heart of it all are Callie and Nikos, two characters with strong chemistry from the very beginning. Callie is a confident, determined, plus-size chef chasing her dream of opening a Michelin-star restaurant. Nikos, the grumpy local doctor, sees her as the enemy and wants to shut down the project she’s working on.
Their relationship starts with lots of miscommunication and tension, classic enemies-to-lovers style. Some of their banter was genuinely fun to read. I especially loved Callie’s resilience; despite everything going wrong, she keeps going and doesn’t give up. Honestly, I’m not sure why she stayed on the island when it felt like the universe was against her, but I admired her persistence. I especially loved the scenes where she delved into local recipes and blended them with her own style—those culinary moments were a joy to read. I also liked that her name had a cute reason behind it, and not the usual “Greek name = Greek background” trope. It made her even more fun.
P.S. How did she manage to walk around the countryside in sandals without suffering? No wonder Nikos kept calling her out—she was seriously committed to avoiding proper shoes! 😂
Nikos felt like the island’s unofficial leader, completely focused on protecting it from outside interference. Behind all that grumpiness though, there’s a soft side, especially when it comes to Callie. I really enjoyed seeing him fall for her little by little. His deep connection to the island, even after spending years away, added so much depth to his character. And honestly, I was so glad Callie didn’t make things easy for him after everything he put her through. He deserved to work for it.
The pacing felt just right for a light summer read—quick, fun, and easy to get into. I also liked the added twist of the resort conflict; it gave the story an extra layer. That said, there were a few scenes where I wished for more emotional depth. Some moments flew by a little too fast, and I think slowing down could’ve made the characters’ feelings hit harder. Bonus points for the book excerpts and how Callie and Nikos used some of those moments in their own story. That was a sweet touch. Now I’m honestly curious... could we get a full story from One Week with the Greek someday?
Overall, this is a warm, feel-good romance with a dreamy setting and great characters. Maggie Deryn has written something light, heartfelt, and full of charm. Perfect for anyone looking for a summery escape with a little drama, food, and love. I didn’t give it 4 stars because, for me, the story occasionally lacks depth, and some moments, though enjoyable, feel a bit unrealistic. That’s why 3.75 felt like the right rating.
Big thanks to Luna Literary Management and N.J. Weeks for the eARC
August 15, 2025
3.5⭐️
Love on the Rocks is a light, fast-paced enemies-to-lovers romance set against the lush, sun-drenched, sea sprayed backdrop of the remote Greek island of Lyra. Callie is a talented chef sent to the island to help convince the locals to approve the construction of a luxury resort where she has been promised the role of head chef. Nikos is the island doctor, hellbent on blocking the development of the hotel at all costs, including some not-so-nice shenanigans.
The vivid descriptions of the island— food, scenery, and atmosphere—are absolutely tantalizing, making you feel as if you’re right there among the ancient ruins, olive groves and sunlit beaches. The banter and tension between Callie and Nikos is sharp. The miscommunication and mischievous shenanigans kept things entertaining, though I did find some of Nikos’s antics a touch too cruel for my taste. While I would have liked more emotional depth between the leads, the layered conflict provided by the hotel storyline added intrigue beyond the romance.
Overall, this is a light and charming read (think Mamma Mia! vibes), perfect for a summer/vacation/beach read if you want some romance, humor and a dash of drama, especially if you’re headed to the Mediterranean.
Thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Love on the Rocks is a light, fast-paced enemies-to-lovers romance set against the lush, sun-drenched, sea sprayed backdrop of the remote Greek island of Lyra. Callie is a talented chef sent to the island to help convince the locals to approve the construction of a luxury resort where she has been promised the role of head chef. Nikos is the island doctor, hellbent on blocking the development of the hotel at all costs, including some not-so-nice shenanigans.
The vivid descriptions of the island— food, scenery, and atmosphere—are absolutely tantalizing, making you feel as if you’re right there among the ancient ruins, olive groves and sunlit beaches. The banter and tension between Callie and Nikos is sharp. The miscommunication and mischievous shenanigans kept things entertaining, though I did find some of Nikos’s antics a touch too cruel for my taste. While I would have liked more emotional depth between the leads, the layered conflict provided by the hotel storyline added intrigue beyond the romance.
Overall, this is a light and charming read (think Mamma Mia! vibes), perfect for a summer/vacation/beach read if you want some romance, humor and a dash of drama, especially if you’re headed to the Mediterranean.
Thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2025
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: August 6 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
This book is an absolute treasure, and I can honestly say it’s one of those stories that just makes you smile from ear to ear. I truly, truly loved every single moment of it.
The setting of a Greek island immediately captured my imagination. You could almost feel the warm breeze and smell the delicious food. It’s the kind of place that feels like a dream, and it played such a wonderful role in the story. It wasn’t just a background; it felt like a character itself, adding so much charm and a cozy, inviting feeling to everything.
The descriptions of the island, and the way the local life was shown, made me want to pack my bags and go there right now!
And then there are Callie and Nikos. Wow. Callie is such a determined and spirited woman. Her dreams of opening her own restaurant and getting that Michelin star were so easy to root for. She’s strong, smart, and doesn’t back down from a challenge, which I just loved about her. Her passion for food and her ambition were truly inspiring. Then there’s Nikos, the broody local doctor who initially seems like he wants Callie gone. He’s protective of his island, a little grumpy at first, but underneath all that, he’s got such a big, good heart. Watching him slowly let his guard down and seeing the real him shine through was incredibly charming. He’s exactly the kind of hero you want to root for, even with his initial stubbornness.
The way their story unfolds, starting with them being at odds, is just pure joy to read. The banter between them is sharp and witty, You can feel the sparks flying from their very first meeting, even when they’re trying to annoy each other and put up walls. But as they spend more time together, and as things get complicated, their initial dislike slowly, beautifully melts into something deeper and much more tender. This is where the magic truly happens, watching their feelings shift and grow.
Let me tell you, Nikos and Callie’s chemistry was so beautiful. It wasn't just a little bit there, it was everywhere, in every word unspoken, every glance, every touch. Their connection felt incredibly real and genuine. You could practically feel the warmth and the pull between them growing stronger with each chapter. It was the kind of chemistry that gives you butterflies and makes you believe in true love, the kind that makes your heart flutter. Their journey felt natural and utterly captivating, and I rooted for them with every fiber of my being. I adored every single step of their romance.
I honestly flew through this book. Every time I had to put it down, I was counting the minutes until I could pick it back up again. The writing is easy to get lost in, and the story just pulls you along with such a wonderful pace. It’s one of those books that leaves you feeling incredibly happy and satisfied when you reach the end, but also a little sad that it’s over because you just want to spend more time with these characters and in this lovely world. Every page was a delight, and I felt so connected to their journey and struggles.
This book was filled with so much charm, genuine emotion, and a romance that shines brightly. Maggie Deryn has given us a truly special story that I know I’ll be thinking about for a long, long time. It’s a definite favorite, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Huge thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the ARC!!!
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Enemies to lovers, doctor mmc/chef fmc, grumpy/sunshine, small town romance, forced proximity, opposite attract
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: August 6 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
This book is an absolute treasure, and I can honestly say it’s one of those stories that just makes you smile from ear to ear. I truly, truly loved every single moment of it.
The setting of a Greek island immediately captured my imagination. You could almost feel the warm breeze and smell the delicious food. It’s the kind of place that feels like a dream, and it played such a wonderful role in the story. It wasn’t just a background; it felt like a character itself, adding so much charm and a cozy, inviting feeling to everything.
The descriptions of the island, and the way the local life was shown, made me want to pack my bags and go there right now!
And then there are Callie and Nikos. Wow. Callie is such a determined and spirited woman. Her dreams of opening her own restaurant and getting that Michelin star were so easy to root for. She’s strong, smart, and doesn’t back down from a challenge, which I just loved about her. Her passion for food and her ambition were truly inspiring. Then there’s Nikos, the broody local doctor who initially seems like he wants Callie gone. He’s protective of his island, a little grumpy at first, but underneath all that, he’s got such a big, good heart. Watching him slowly let his guard down and seeing the real him shine through was incredibly charming. He’s exactly the kind of hero you want to root for, even with his initial stubbornness.
The way their story unfolds, starting with them being at odds, is just pure joy to read. The banter between them is sharp and witty, You can feel the sparks flying from their very first meeting, even when they’re trying to annoy each other and put up walls. But as they spend more time together, and as things get complicated, their initial dislike slowly, beautifully melts into something deeper and much more tender. This is where the magic truly happens, watching their feelings shift and grow.
Let me tell you, Nikos and Callie’s chemistry was so beautiful. It wasn't just a little bit there, it was everywhere, in every word unspoken, every glance, every touch. Their connection felt incredibly real and genuine. You could practically feel the warmth and the pull between them growing stronger with each chapter. It was the kind of chemistry that gives you butterflies and makes you believe in true love, the kind that makes your heart flutter. Their journey felt natural and utterly captivating, and I rooted for them with every fiber of my being. I adored every single step of their romance.
I honestly flew through this book. Every time I had to put it down, I was counting the minutes until I could pick it back up again. The writing is easy to get lost in, and the story just pulls you along with such a wonderful pace. It’s one of those books that leaves you feeling incredibly happy and satisfied when you reach the end, but also a little sad that it’s over because you just want to spend more time with these characters and in this lovely world. Every page was a delight, and I felt so connected to their journey and struggles.
This book was filled with so much charm, genuine emotion, and a romance that shines brightly. Maggie Deryn has given us a truly special story that I know I’ll be thinking about for a long, long time. It’s a definite favorite, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Huge thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the ARC!!!
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Enemies to lovers, doctor mmc/chef fmc, grumpy/sunshine, small town romance, forced proximity, opposite attract
August 6, 2025
When I consider Love on the Rocks, the first thought that arises is to label this book as a charming enemies-to-lovers story. I truly loved exploring the tale of Calista and Nikos. This book not only tells a love story but also encourages readers to visit Greece while discussing significant contemporary issues.
Callie is headstrong, precisely the trait I appreciate in my FMCs. Once she gained confidence in herself and recognized her own value, she is resolved to pursue her dreams, but not by harming others. Her start at Lyra proves challenging, and she must blend her determination with strength to demonstrate that she doesn't back down easily. But why does the individual intent on making her depart the island also happen to be the one she simply cannot look away from?
Nikos Laskaris is a person who feels a deep connection to Lyra. Despite being born in the United States, he spent each summer with his grandfather on the Greek island. When his grandfather fell ill, Nikos promptly left New York to care for him until the very end. Being a doctor, it appeared clear to him that he would inherit his grandfather’s medical practice on the island. Yet, upon discovering that a major corporation plans to construct a hotel complex in Lyra, he resolves to obstruct the initiative. He did not, however, anticipate that the Greystone Group would send a woman who appears to be the reincarnation of a Greek goddess to manage the project.
Despite the indications that Callie and Nikos will never agree due to their opposing views on the hotel complex's construction, occasionally all it requires is a little cosmic alignment for today’s adversaries to transform into tomorrow’s partners.
Callie is headstrong, precisely the trait I appreciate in my FMCs. Once she gained confidence in herself and recognized her own value, she is resolved to pursue her dreams, but not by harming others. Her start at Lyra proves challenging, and she must blend her determination with strength to demonstrate that she doesn't back down easily. But why does the individual intent on making her depart the island also happen to be the one she simply cannot look away from?
Nikos Laskaris is a person who feels a deep connection to Lyra. Despite being born in the United States, he spent each summer with his grandfather on the Greek island. When his grandfather fell ill, Nikos promptly left New York to care for him until the very end. Being a doctor, it appeared clear to him that he would inherit his grandfather’s medical practice on the island. Yet, upon discovering that a major corporation plans to construct a hotel complex in Lyra, he resolves to obstruct the initiative. He did not, however, anticipate that the Greystone Group would send a woman who appears to be the reincarnation of a Greek goddess to manage the project.
Despite the indications that Callie and Nikos will never agree due to their opposing views on the hotel complex's construction, occasionally all it requires is a little cosmic alignment for today’s adversaries to transform into tomorrow’s partners.
August 6, 2025
When I think about Love on the Rocks, the first thing that comes to mind is describing this book as a sweet enemies-to-lovers. I really enjoyed reading Calista and Nikos’ story. As well as being a love story, this book also invites readers to travel to Greece while addressing important current issues.
Callie is stubborn, which is exactly how I like my FMCs. After learning to have confidence in herself and her own worth, she is determined to achieve her dreams, but not at the expense of others. Her beginnings at Lyra are not easy, and she must combine her stubbornness with resilience to prove that she does not give up easily. But why must the person determined to make her leave the island also be the one she cannot take her eyes off?
Nikos Laskaris is a man who is extremely attached to Lyra. Although he was born in the United States, he spent every summer with his grandfather on the Greek island. When his grandfather got sick, Nikos didn’t hesitate to leave New York and take care of him until the end. As a doctor, it seemed obvious to him that he would take over his grandfather’s medical practice on the island. However, when he learns that a large corporation wants to build a hotel complex in Lyra, he becomes determined to thwart the project. He did not, however, expect the Greystone Group to send a woman who seems to be the reincarnation of a Greek goddess to oversee the project.
Although everything suggests that Callie and Nikos will never see eye-to-eye because of their differing opinions regarding the construction of the hotel complex, sometimes all it takes is for the stars to align for today’s enemies to become tomorrow’s lovers.
Many thanks to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary Management for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Love on the Rocks. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.
Callie is stubborn, which is exactly how I like my FMCs. After learning to have confidence in herself and her own worth, she is determined to achieve her dreams, but not at the expense of others. Her beginnings at Lyra are not easy, and she must combine her stubbornness with resilience to prove that she does not give up easily. But why must the person determined to make her leave the island also be the one she cannot take her eyes off?
Nikos Laskaris is a man who is extremely attached to Lyra. Although he was born in the United States, he spent every summer with his grandfather on the Greek island. When his grandfather got sick, Nikos didn’t hesitate to leave New York and take care of him until the end. As a doctor, it seemed obvious to him that he would take over his grandfather’s medical practice on the island. However, when he learns that a large corporation wants to build a hotel complex in Lyra, he becomes determined to thwart the project. He did not, however, expect the Greystone Group to send a woman who seems to be the reincarnation of a Greek goddess to oversee the project.
Although everything suggests that Callie and Nikos will never see eye-to-eye because of their differing opinions regarding the construction of the hotel complex, sometimes all it takes is for the stars to align for today’s enemies to become tomorrow’s lovers.
Many thanks to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary Management for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Love on the Rocks. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.
September 24, 2025
Overall:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Love on the Rocks swept me away and set me down on a sun-drenched Greek island—with goats and ruins and oodles of enemies-to-lovers angst. Callie McGinn is a determined chef who’s been promised a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a chef position for a luxury resort, her chance at a Michelin star, and a “30 Under 30” business profile to boot. But, of course, setting foot on Lyra is less than glamorous and more like stepping in stone ruins and goat droppings, and she finds her number one nemeses is Nikos Laskaris, the dark and brooding island doctor who will do anything to prevent the resort from going through because he believes it will ruin the island he loves. Sparks sizzle, insults fly, and every time she shows up to win the locals over with both food and heart, he lashes back with grumpy resistance—until one night during a rainstorm (ah, yes, the trope) they’re pushed together and desire overcomes loathing. The scenery is beautiful, the cooking scenes make me hungry, the emotional stakes feel very real (especially around community, heritage, and the question of what “progress” really means), and the found family + banter + “he falls first” vibe is just so much fun. It’s warm, sexy, just a little messy—in the best way—and I finished it with a happy sigh and a mental image of fruity drink on a balcony overlooking the Aegean.
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Love on the Rocks swept me away and set me down on a sun-drenched Greek island—with goats and ruins and oodles of enemies-to-lovers angst. Callie McGinn is a determined chef who’s been promised a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a chef position for a luxury resort, her chance at a Michelin star, and a “30 Under 30” business profile to boot. But, of course, setting foot on Lyra is less than glamorous and more like stepping in stone ruins and goat droppings, and she finds her number one nemeses is Nikos Laskaris, the dark and brooding island doctor who will do anything to prevent the resort from going through because he believes it will ruin the island he loves. Sparks sizzle, insults fly, and every time she shows up to win the locals over with both food and heart, he lashes back with grumpy resistance—until one night during a rainstorm (ah, yes, the trope) they’re pushed together and desire overcomes loathing. The scenery is beautiful, the cooking scenes make me hungry, the emotional stakes feel very real (especially around community, heritage, and the question of what “progress” really means), and the found family + banter + “he falls first” vibe is just so much fun. It’s warm, sexy, just a little messy—in the best way—and I finished it with a happy sigh and a mental image of fruity drink on a balcony overlooking the Aegean.
August 17, 2025
This book was brilliant. Maggie did such a great job telling Callie and Nikos’ story. We first met Callie in Love on the Vine as Olivia’s spitfire bestie. I was hoping that we would get Callie’s story and Maggie delivered. Callie gets an amazing job opportunity under the guise that she would be getting her own restaurant at a hotel that she would oversea the opening of. She is sent to Lyra to help convince the locals that the hotel and restaurant would be great for Lyra and the people that lived there. Upon arriving to Lyra, Callie is put through it by Nikos. Nikos is convinced that Callie is only looking out for her best interests and not the interests of the locals. Callie grows to love Lyra and really tries to come up with a proposal that will honor the locals and involve them in the hotel/restaurant. Things do not end up going the way Callie wants. This story is a real good lesson in everything happens for a reason. What was meant for Callie and Nicos was so much better than Callie could have ever dreamed of. 5 stars. I will read anything Maggie writes!!
August 7, 2025
ARC review!
I want to thank Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this book!
Love on the Rocks follows Callie and Nikos. Callie is a determined woman who wants to open up her own restaurant. Nikos is the grumpy doctor. The books setting is on an Island and Nikos seems to want Callie off of it. At the beginning of the story the two of the do not get along and seem at odds with each other. Nikos slowly shows he is not the true grump that his exterior shows and on the inside he has a good spirit and heart. From their first meeting you can feel the tension and the chemistry that the two of them have together. There was charm, emotion, tension, and plot. The story was beautifully written and watching these two characters grow and their story grow together was beautiful.
Tropes:
- doctor mmc/chef fmc
- enemies to lovers
- small town romance
- grump x sunshine
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
4 ⭐️
2 🌶️
I want to thank Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this book!
Love on the Rocks follows Callie and Nikos. Callie is a determined woman who wants to open up her own restaurant. Nikos is the grumpy doctor. The books setting is on an Island and Nikos seems to want Callie off of it. At the beginning of the story the two of the do not get along and seem at odds with each other. Nikos slowly shows he is not the true grump that his exterior shows and on the inside he has a good spirit and heart. From their first meeting you can feel the tension and the chemistry that the two of them have together. There was charm, emotion, tension, and plot. The story was beautifully written and watching these two characters grow and their story grow together was beautiful.
Tropes:
- doctor mmc/chef fmc
- enemies to lovers
- small town romance
- grump x sunshine
- opposites attract
- forced proximity
4 ⭐️
2 🌶️
August 9, 2025
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Love on the Rocks, and diving into it felt like stepping into a cozy, electric spark of romance. Maggie Deryn delivers the perfect mix of tension, chemistry, and emotional warmth that makes the enemies-to-lovers trope so irresistible.
Thrown together in a rainstorm, Nikos and Callie go from clashing to craving in a heartbeat. Their initial conflict simmers with witty banter and just the right amount of friction, and when the spark finally catches, it feels earned.
The witty banter keeps the tension engaging without ever veering into snark for the sake of snark., the emotional payoff delivers more than just physical attraction. it has a light, feel-good tone that makes it the kind of romance you curl up with and smile at, even after it ends.
If you're looking for a modern, steamy romance with real heart, feisty sparks, and that cozy chemistry that lingers, Love on the Rocks is an absolute must-read.
Thrown together in a rainstorm, Nikos and Callie go from clashing to craving in a heartbeat. Their initial conflict simmers with witty banter and just the right amount of friction, and when the spark finally catches, it feels earned.
The witty banter keeps the tension engaging without ever veering into snark for the sake of snark., the emotional payoff delivers more than just physical attraction. it has a light, feel-good tone that makes it the kind of romance you curl up with and smile at, even after it ends.
If you're looking for a modern, steamy romance with real heart, feisty sparks, and that cozy chemistry that lingers, Love on the Rocks is an absolute must-read.
August 2, 2025
Man, I am a sucker for happy endings and this one had happy tears running down my cheeks.
Meet Callie, an aspiring chef, who never feels like she is enough but is also too much. Callie gets roped into what sounds like the career chance of a lifetime at an up and coming resort on a Greek island. Only to find out it’s an island of 300 people, who do not want the resort, and she’s set up for failure - mainly by the handsome island doctor, Nikos.
I absolutely loved the banter these 2 had, I loved the descriptions of the island and I was able to vision of after spending some time in Greece this summer. I loved the character development as Callie finds herself and her confidence in a “Stella got her Groove Back” kind of way. & then well, the grand gestures 😍
Tropes:
💙 enemies (ish) to lovers
💙 chef FMC XLx MD MMC
💙 forced proximity
💙 he falls first
Meet Callie, an aspiring chef, who never feels like she is enough but is also too much. Callie gets roped into what sounds like the career chance of a lifetime at an up and coming resort on a Greek island. Only to find out it’s an island of 300 people, who do not want the resort, and she’s set up for failure - mainly by the handsome island doctor, Nikos.
I absolutely loved the banter these 2 had, I loved the descriptions of the island and I was able to vision of after spending some time in Greece this summer. I loved the character development as Callie finds herself and her confidence in a “Stella got her Groove Back” kind of way. & then well, the grand gestures 😍
Tropes:
💙 enemies (ish) to lovers
💙 chef FMC XLx MD MMC
💙 forced proximity
💙 he falls first
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
Asterisk mou. Give me your light. I cannot stand the darkness without you.
This book was so amazingly different and quirky, I’m completely obsessed 🖤😍
Set on a little old school island on Greece enter The grumpy towns only Doctor, Niko. He will stop at nothing to put an end to a hotel being built on his island. In walks Calista a chef working for the company trying to build said Hotel. Well needless to say that he messes with her and doesn’t even feel guilty about it. Until he does. I’m love love Calista and how bad ass she is. She never gives up on her dream even when Niko is trying to ruin everything! But when she gets hurt he takes care of her and the sparks fly!! 🥵 together they are so good, just.so.good!! I absolutely adored how their love story came to be in the end. Totally loved this book!!
This book was so amazingly different and quirky, I’m completely obsessed 🖤😍
Set on a little old school island on Greece enter The grumpy towns only Doctor, Niko. He will stop at nothing to put an end to a hotel being built on his island. In walks Calista a chef working for the company trying to build said Hotel. Well needless to say that he messes with her and doesn’t even feel guilty about it. Until he does. I’m love love Calista and how bad ass she is. She never gives up on her dream even when Niko is trying to ruin everything! But when she gets hurt he takes care of her and the sparks fly!! 🥵 together they are so good, just.so.good!! I absolutely adored how their love story came to be in the end. Totally loved this book!!
August 7, 2025
Love on the Rocks by Maggie Deryn is a sassy escape to the Greek Isles that had me hooked from page one.
When a determined chef lands on the tiny island of Lyra to sell the locals on a new hotel (and claim her dream job as head chef), she’s laser-focused…until she meets him.
Enter Nikos: the island’s brooding, tattooed, gorgeous doctor with a serious grudge against the project and a knack for driving her wild in all the right (and wrong) ways.
Think:
🍽️ Haters-to-lovers tension
🏝️ Small-town Greek charm
🩺 Swoon-worthy doctor energy
🔥 Witty banter + delicious steam
💬 A certain ruined temple scene that will live rent-free in your head forever-IYKYK
This book has heart, heat, and the kind of chemistry that crackles off the page. A total must-read for anyone craving enemies-to-lovers with a Mediterranean twist and serious summer vibes.
When a determined chef lands on the tiny island of Lyra to sell the locals on a new hotel (and claim her dream job as head chef), she’s laser-focused…until she meets him.
Enter Nikos: the island’s brooding, tattooed, gorgeous doctor with a serious grudge against the project and a knack for driving her wild in all the right (and wrong) ways.
Think:
🍽️ Haters-to-lovers tension
🏝️ Small-town Greek charm
🩺 Swoon-worthy doctor energy
🔥 Witty banter + delicious steam
💬 A certain ruined temple scene that will live rent-free in your head forever-IYKYK
This book has heart, heat, and the kind of chemistry that crackles off the page. A total must-read for anyone craving enemies-to-lovers with a Mediterranean twist and serious summer vibes.
August 13, 2025
Nikos is a doctor living on a small island in Greece and is trying to preserve the history of the island. His Grandfather lived on the island his whole life and Nikos has great memories of visiting him there. Callie is a chef who was sent to the island to help with the approval and construction of a resort where she is promised her own restaurant. She is very determined to do whatever it takes to make her dream come true.
These two have chemistry right from the start, even when Callie doesn't think Nikos speaks English lol. This is a quick, light read and definitely enemies to lovers. Nikos absolutely does not want her or her resort on the island and he makes it very clear. I thought he was a little too cruel to Callie which kind of rubbed me the wrong way.
Overall, this is a cute enemies to lovers read set on a Greek Island with a HEA.
Thank you to Luna Literary for the ARC!
These two have chemistry right from the start, even when Callie doesn't think Nikos speaks English lol. This is a quick, light read and definitely enemies to lovers. Nikos absolutely does not want her or her resort on the island and he makes it very clear. I thought he was a little too cruel to Callie which kind of rubbed me the wrong way.
Overall, this is a cute enemies to lovers read set on a Greek Island with a HEA.
Thank you to Luna Literary for the ARC!
August 14, 2025
I adored this book. It is a delightful enemies-to-lovers romance set in Greece that deals with worldly issues such as over-tourism and the status of migrants.
Callie is a hard-headed chef trying to make her way in a male dominated industry. She's sent to a tiny Greek island by her employer who intends to build an over-the-top resort resembling what you find in Mykonos.
She meets Nikos, who is the island's doctor and dead set against the resort being built, and they become instant enemies. Note, he's just as hard-headed as she is.
Eventually, they find common ground and fall in love, but not without hiccups. They do get their happy ending, though.
I've rated both books in this series as 5-star. They are definitely worth reading.
Callie is a hard-headed chef trying to make her way in a male dominated industry. She's sent to a tiny Greek island by her employer who intends to build an over-the-top resort resembling what you find in Mykonos.
She meets Nikos, who is the island's doctor and dead set against the resort being built, and they become instant enemies. Note, he's just as hard-headed as she is.
Eventually, they find common ground and fall in love, but not without hiccups. They do get their happy ending, though.
I've rated both books in this series as 5-star. They are definitely worth reading.
August 27, 2025
Oof this book, new author to me but man oh man! I can’t even put into words my feelings. This was my first book of Maggie’s and man am I hooked now! BUT NOW I HAVE TO WAIT FOR ANOTHER BOOK 😭😭😭
When FMC Callie is sent to the small Greek island to oversee the construction of a new resort, the MMC nikos will try to put a stop to it anyway possible. But Callie is a social butterfly who will find friends anywhere she goes, the locals start loving her not matter what Nikos says.
If it’s not the banter and the denial of feelings. It’s the way nikos WORSHIPS her and the ground she walks on that gives me all the feels!!
Tropes:
✨enemies to lovers
✨small town romance
✨forced proximity
✨sunshine x grumpy
✨ opposites attract
✨
When FMC Callie is sent to the small Greek island to oversee the construction of a new resort, the MMC nikos will try to put a stop to it anyway possible. But Callie is a social butterfly who will find friends anywhere she goes, the locals start loving her not matter what Nikos says.
If it’s not the banter and the denial of feelings. It’s the way nikos WORSHIPS her and the ground she walks on that gives me all the feels!!
Tropes:
✨enemies to lovers
✨small town romance
✨forced proximity
✨sunshine x grumpy
✨ opposites attract
✨
August 11, 2025
Love on the Rocks is a sweet and spicy enemies to lovers romance. I love Callie and Nikos' story! There was lots of banter and tension between them. I felt so bad for Callie for all she had gone through to be seen as an extraordinary chef. I love that she was a strong independent woman but she was stubborn and hard-headed too. Nikos was wrong for the things he put Callie through, but I understand his reasons. This book is a true enemies to lovers. They truly hated each other at first, but the sexual attraction is what brought them back together. I love their HEA! 4⭐2.5🌶️
Thank you Maggie and Luna Literacy for including me as an ARC reader!
Thank you Maggie and Luna Literacy for including me as an ARC reader!
July 31, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I signed up for this book, thinking the story sounded good and it did not disappoint! Niko and Callie, the way they butt heads at first then over time, through food, and books and mini adventures on a tiny island near Greece and Turkey, fall madly in love. This was very well written and easy to binge, I read it in less than a day, very invested and enjoyed and felt embraced by the magic of this story and the characters. So special, fun and sweet, emotional. I really loved it. Thank you to Luna Literary Managment and Maggie for the ARC 🫶🏻🧆💚🩵
🌶️🌶️
I signed up for this book, thinking the story sounded good and it did not disappoint! Niko and Callie, the way they butt heads at first then over time, through food, and books and mini adventures on a tiny island near Greece and Turkey, fall madly in love. This was very well written and easy to binge, I read it in less than a day, very invested and enjoyed and felt embraced by the magic of this story and the characters. So special, fun and sweet, emotional. I really loved it. Thank you to Luna Literary Managment and Maggie for the ARC 🫶🏻🧆💚🩵
August 6, 2025
I loved this romance set in Greece so much. It brought me back to all the wonderful times I had when I was there.
Nikos had me laughing my ass off. He had the audacity to pretend he did not speak english so she couldn’t speak to him and THEN SHE confesses how hot he is to her friend. This gave the perfect set up for enemies to lovers with perfect teasing banter. 😏
Callie is a wonderful FMC. She starts out in an unhealthy relationship, and watching her find herself in Greece was beautiful.
Their development is really good, and connection is so sweet. 🫶🏽
Tropes
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Chef x Doctor
Curvy Heroine
He Falls First
Touch Her and Die
Anxiety Rep
Small Greek Island
🌶️🌶️/5
Nikos had me laughing my ass off. He had the audacity to pretend he did not speak english so she couldn’t speak to him and THEN SHE confesses how hot he is to her friend. This gave the perfect set up for enemies to lovers with perfect teasing banter. 😏
Callie is a wonderful FMC. She starts out in an unhealthy relationship, and watching her find herself in Greece was beautiful.
Their development is really good, and connection is so sweet. 🫶🏽
Tropes
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Chef x Doctor
Curvy Heroine
He Falls First
Touch Her and Die
Anxiety Rep
Small Greek Island
🌶️🌶️/5
August 12, 2025
This is my first Maggie Deryn that I have read and I really loved it.
We meet Callie & Nikos in this book. Callie is a chef and she gets sent to a location that the hotel she works for is planning on opening up a new hotel there. All the travel is done either by walking, by boat or by riding a donkey. She meets Nikos because she hurt her leg and he so happens to be a doctor. They talk and get to know each other and they really decide that they like each other and decide to see where it goes.
Thank you Maggie Deryn & Luna Literary for allowing me to read this early before release.
We meet Callie & Nikos in this book. Callie is a chef and she gets sent to a location that the hotel she works for is planning on opening up a new hotel there. All the travel is done either by walking, by boat or by riding a donkey. She meets Nikos because she hurt her leg and he so happens to be a doctor. They talk and get to know each other and they really decide that they like each other and decide to see where it goes.
Thank you Maggie Deryn & Luna Literary for allowing me to read this early before release.
September 4, 2025
I'm part of the era that grew up and DEVOURED the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants books and always wanted Lena to end up with Kostos, because who WOULDN'T want a gorgeous Greek man?? This book gave me all those vibes and more. Callie got her gorgeous Greek man in Nikos, and all it did was make me yearn more for that coastal setting on a Greek island.
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Chef x Doctor
Curvy Heroine
He Falls First
Touch Her and Die
Anxiety Rep
Small Greek Island
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Chef x Doctor
Curvy Heroine
He Falls First
Touch Her and Die
Anxiety Rep
Small Greek Island
February 19, 2026
This book was such a fun surprise. Maggie did a great job bringing Callie and Nikos’ story to life and capturing that cozy Greek‑island vibe. I loved seeing Callie step into the spotlight here—her ambition, humor, and persistence made her so easy to root for, and Nikos was the perfect grumpy counterbalance to her sunshine energy. Callie wins over the locals, but Nikos’s secret Vegas marriage and some rushed emotional moments keep this otherwise fun, summery enemies‑to‑lovers rom‑com at about a 3.75‑star.
August 2, 2025
Rating: 4 stars
If you're looking for a rom-com read with a spice that would give some Mamma Mia vibes with the lighthearted story, lots of funny moments, great banter, some fish out of the water situations, fierce and determine FMC, and a bit broody MMC - this one should land on you TBR list!
And I would have rated it even higher, if the ending gave a bit more oomph. It's just that the whole story was so much fun to read and follow along, while the ending (even though nice and obviously a HEA) fell a bit flat in comparison.
I'm looking forward to the next book that was teased here!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
If you're looking for a rom-com read with a spice that would give some Mamma Mia vibes with the lighthearted story, lots of funny moments, great banter, some fish out of the water situations, fierce and determine FMC, and a bit broody MMC - this one should land on you TBR list!
And I would have rated it even higher, if the ending gave a bit more oomph. It's just that the whole story was so much fun to read and follow along, while the ending (even though nice and obviously a HEA) fell a bit flat in comparison.
I'm looking forward to the next book that was teased here!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
August 4, 2025
Ever since i read the first Love on the Vine i fell in love with this author's writing. The details that are put into the story is beautiful. This is such a perfect story to read for the summer. The banter between Callie and Nikos was everything ! I caught myself towards the end yelling at my kindle " go get your girl Nikos!" I was feeling it you can say lol. Definitely is worth the read and i can't wait for everyone to read Callie's and Nikos story.
August 22, 2025
A grumpy Greek doctor I now have a crush on, plus Callie who is a hilarious and determined Chef.. add in the island setting and it felt like a vacation! It has great slow burn and heat, and now I’m mad I can’t move to Lyra.
August 6, 2025
I enjoyed this book! The banter and spice were great! I laughed at a few scenes.
- enemies to lovers
- grumpy/ sunshine
- small town
- forced proximity
- enemies to lovers
- grumpy/ sunshine
- small town
- forced proximity
August 12, 2025
Thank you to Luna Literary and Maggie for the eARC!
I enjoyed this book! I loved all the characters on the island down to the pets! Books that are set in Greece just do it for me. I love all the scenery and the culture. Nikos was a great MMC. Even with his dumb antics. I wish we got to see more of his anxiety laid out on the page instead of just talked about in passing but still a great character! Cal was ten toes down on her dreams and I loved that for her.
I enjoyed this book! I loved all the characters on the island down to the pets! Books that are set in Greece just do it for me. I love all the scenery and the culture. Nikos was a great MMC. Even with his dumb antics. I wish we got to see more of his anxiety laid out on the page instead of just talked about in passing but still a great character! Cal was ten toes down on her dreams and I loved that for her.
August 24, 2025
This is a fast paste enemies to lovers... It was the perfect book for me. I have fewer distractions in fast-paced. with slow burns, I tend to get lost.
Greek Island is now my dream home island.
Greek Island is now my dream home island.
August 22, 2025
✨arc review✨
This was such a cute read! Some people thought Nikos' antics were too much but honestly, it made for a funny story. I loved how resilient Callie was, and how she took no BS from anyone, and that's what attracted Nikos to her. The Greek history was great to read about, and this was a super funny read as well!
Thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary Management for the arc!!
This was such a cute read! Some people thought Nikos' antics were too much but honestly, it made for a funny story. I loved how resilient Callie was, and how she took no BS from anyone, and that's what attracted Nikos to her. The Greek history was great to read about, and this was a super funny read as well!
Thank you to Maggie Deryn and Luna Literary Management for the arc!!
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