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Sizzling in the Kitchen #2
Chef vs Chef
Bobby Diaz has worked his whole life to get where he is – running a restaurant with his two closest friends, no boss, and generally content. When his best friend Baldwin gets the gig of a lifetime, he asks Bobby to take over the restaurant while he’s gone. He’ll miss his friend, but he’s excited to put himself to the test. He can’t believe he’s getting the chance to finally run his own kitchen.
Cal Mayer is thirty and starting over. His last relationship was a failure. His job went down the drain. So when his cousin Pete, a.k.a Baldwin Powell celebrity chef, offers him a gig in his restaurant, he can’t help but to jump at the offer to reinvent himself.
Bobby and Cal don’t exactly hit it off—to put it lightly. Bobby resents getting Cal dumped in his lap. Cal doesn’t appreciate Bobby’s frosty attitude. They’re stuck together day and night, and their chemistry is undeniable… but will it be sweet summer love or a case of too many chefs in the kitchen?
Cal Mayer is thirty and starting over. His last relationship was a failure. His job went down the drain. So when his cousin Pete, a.k.a Baldwin Powell celebrity chef, offers him a gig in his restaurant, he can’t help but to jump at the offer to reinvent himself.
Bobby and Cal don’t exactly hit it off—to put it lightly. Bobby resents getting Cal dumped in his lap. Cal doesn’t appreciate Bobby’s frosty attitude. They’re stuck together day and night, and their chemistry is undeniable… but will it be sweet summer love or a case of too many chefs in the kitchen?
167 pages, ebook
First published June 4, 2019
11 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
M.J. O'Shea
84 books946 followersMJ O’Shea has never met a music festival, paintbrush, or
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
flower crown she can stay away from. She loves rainstorms
and a perfect cup of tea, beach days, music, bright colors, and
more than anything a cozy evening with a really great book.
She is from the Pacific Northwest. While she still lives there
and loves it, MJ has the heart of a wanderer. So she puts all
her dreams of far off places and extraordinary people in her
books.
Except for every once in a while when she does what all
travelers have to do on occasion… come home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 26, 2019
I enjoyed this but I was also quite frustrated.
The problem is, I think I was frustrated more than not. As delightful as the cast was... they were not always delightful together.
I’m not exactly sure who I am most upset with...Baldwin for not being clear (a few simple words could have easily avoided a great deal of grief) or Bobby for his attitude.
Although the ending was quite satisfying... I can’t exactly say the road there was.
Loved the kitchen backdrop.
Loved the smitten owners.
And yet, I struggled to love the chefs starring this show. 😕
*3 wishy-washy stars*
The problem is, I think I was frustrated more than not. As delightful as the cast was... they were not always delightful together.
I’m not exactly sure who I am most upset with...Baldwin for not being clear (a few simple words could have easily avoided a great deal of grief) or Bobby for his attitude.
Although the ending was quite satisfying... I can’t exactly say the road there was.
Loved the kitchen backdrop.
Loved the smitten owners.
And yet, I struggled to love the chefs starring this show. 😕
*3 wishy-washy stars*
November 2, 2023
I really loved this book. I’ve been rather bored with the last couple of books I read and needed to read something I knew I’d enjoy. There was a free give away of one of the books in this series and I grabbed it. I decided to start at the beginning with this one since it was on KU. M. J. O’Shea is one of my favorites. I love the way she tells a story. This is a sweet beginning to the series.
June 12, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second in the series, but the first that I have read - The leads in book 1 feature big here, so I think it would be a good idea to read them in order. That said it was a good story in its own right.
I enjoy kitchen based stories, and there were elements of this which were very enjoyable, but also some which I understood from a plot basis, but they felt slightly out of place in the restaurant context. I particularly disliked the Vegas solution, as being too convenient.
The romance starts as a deep dislike, due to no small part to a miscommunication, but once Bobby decides that he doesn't like the person he is becoming, the situation improves. There is some chemistry, but these two are sizzling, not burning things up. It is very sweet and gentle, which belies at least Cal's seemingly strident and somewhat fiery nature.
Overall this was a sweet read, which had some interesting insights into the opportunities of a tv chef - and as a second book in the series, it sets up future possibilities.
This is the second in the series, but the first that I have read - The leads in book 1 feature big here, so I think it would be a good idea to read them in order. That said it was a good story in its own right.
I enjoy kitchen based stories, and there were elements of this which were very enjoyable, but also some which I understood from a plot basis, but they felt slightly out of place in the restaurant context. I particularly disliked the Vegas solution, as being too convenient.
The romance starts as a deep dislike, due to no small part to a miscommunication, but once Bobby decides that he doesn't like the person he is becoming, the situation improves. There is some chemistry, but these two are sizzling, not burning things up. It is very sweet and gentle, which belies at least Cal's seemingly strident and somewhat fiery nature.
Overall this was a sweet read, which had some interesting insights into the opportunities of a tv chef - and as a second book in the series, it sets up future possibilities.
June 12, 2019
This is a new-to-me author, and since I love main characters who are chefs (gotta love those A-type personalities), I figured having two of them clashing would make for a fun read. I also loved the setting, Vermont is gorgeous no matter what time of the year.
Both Bobby and Cal started off as likable characters. Bobby irked me a bit though with his attitude toward Cal once they meet, though once they get past that things did settle down between them. The buildup between them was more tell than show though; and both of them were throwing off pretty ambivalent vibes towards each other for quite a while. If you’re looking for hot and naughty, that’s not what you’ll find here—anything beyond kissing is just alluded to and occurs off-page.
The writing style felt a little awkward to me, and some ideas were repeated more than once. Where you’ll find detailed descriptions is with anything regarding the food; the rest of the story not so much, and things roll along at a brisk pace. There’s a bit of hubbub introduced with a rival chef at one point, but it’s resolved rather quickly in kind of a no-muss, no-fuss manner.
Cal had his opportunity to frustrate me later in the story when he vacillates on his future, then makes an impulsive decision that really didn’t ring true to me—it felt more like that choice was forced in to create drama. Then once the resolution came along, that felt more convenient than anything else and the ending felt rushed.
Overall I’m on the fence for this one, which has me placing my rating solidly at 3 stars.
Both Bobby and Cal started off as likable characters. Bobby irked me a bit though with his attitude toward Cal once they meet, though once they get past that things did settle down between them. The buildup between them was more tell than show though; and both of them were throwing off pretty ambivalent vibes towards each other for quite a while. If you’re looking for hot and naughty, that’s not what you’ll find here—anything beyond kissing is just alluded to and occurs off-page.
The writing style felt a little awkward to me, and some ideas were repeated more than once. Where you’ll find detailed descriptions is with anything regarding the food; the rest of the story not so much, and things roll along at a brisk pace. There’s a bit of hubbub introduced with a rival chef at one point, but it’s resolved rather quickly in kind of a no-muss, no-fuss manner.
Cal had his opportunity to frustrate me later in the story when he vacillates on his future, then makes an impulsive decision that really didn’t ring true to me—it felt more like that choice was forced in to create drama. Then once the resolution came along, that felt more convenient than anything else and the ending felt rushed.
Overall I’m on the fence for this one, which has me placing my rating solidly at 3 stars.
August 17, 2019
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
We first met Bobby Diaz in book one, Chef in the Wild, as Baldwin Powell’s sous chef. Bobby now has his chance to leave the mad world of the Manhattan restaurant business when Baldwin offers him the opportunity to help run his new restaurant in Montpelier, Vermont. But what Bobby doesn’t know is that Baldwin also offered his cousin Cal an opportunity to help run the restaurant while Baldwin is away filming a new chef show in the city.
Two chefs + one kitchen = disaster in the making. Well, at first it does, and then Bobby realizes what a prima donna he’s being and decides to relax and just be himself. And “himself” is a happy, humorous, laidback kind of guy. And once he does, Cal falls head over heels for him and vice versa. That’s a simplified way of summarizing this nice MM romance that slowly builds from enemies to lovers, to friends, to romantic relationship. The complicated world the author builds makes for interesting, humorous, and heartwarming reading. The secondary characters, including Baldwin’s family, the owner of the bakery café, and even the dastardly rival chef, are all well-developed and realistic.
The principal secondary characters in this book were the MCs in book one and their story here intrigued me so much I had to go back and grab book one to read their love story. That’s now been devoured, too, so I can honestly say this series is MJ O’Shea romance at it’s best. No one does small town romance as well. From the moment I first read Coming Home and the rest of the Rock Bay series, she’s been among my favorites and these stories gave me similar warm and fuzzy feels. My heart is happy. Highly recommended.
We first met Bobby Diaz in book one, Chef in the Wild, as Baldwin Powell’s sous chef. Bobby now has his chance to leave the mad world of the Manhattan restaurant business when Baldwin offers him the opportunity to help run his new restaurant in Montpelier, Vermont. But what Bobby doesn’t know is that Baldwin also offered his cousin Cal an opportunity to help run the restaurant while Baldwin is away filming a new chef show in the city.
Two chefs + one kitchen = disaster in the making. Well, at first it does, and then Bobby realizes what a prima donna he’s being and decides to relax and just be himself. And “himself” is a happy, humorous, laidback kind of guy. And once he does, Cal falls head over heels for him and vice versa. That’s a simplified way of summarizing this nice MM romance that slowly builds from enemies to lovers, to friends, to romantic relationship. The complicated world the author builds makes for interesting, humorous, and heartwarming reading. The secondary characters, including Baldwin’s family, the owner of the bakery café, and even the dastardly rival chef, are all well-developed and realistic.
The principal secondary characters in this book were the MCs in book one and their story here intrigued me so much I had to go back and grab book one to read their love story. That’s now been devoured, too, so I can honestly say this series is MJ O’Shea romance at it’s best. No one does small town romance as well. From the moment I first read Coming Home and the rest of the Rock Bay series, she’s been among my favorites and these stories gave me similar warm and fuzzy feels. My heart is happy. Highly recommended.
May 10, 2022
I struggled a bit with Cal and Bobby.
Bobby is a "partner" of sorts in the kitchen of Hearth&oak. Techinically its owned by Pete (or Chef Baldwin from book one) and his Husband Murph. When Cal, Petes cousin needs a job, Pete doesnt hesitate to offer his kitchen, esp, as both he and Murph will be away. However, both Murp and Pete had incidicated to Bobby it was to be HIS kitchen prior to this, as they were going to hire help for Bobby.
Cal and Bobby rub eachother up the wrong way from the start, as they both want to be in charge. This carries on for a number of weeks and when Bobby decides hes gonna be nicer to Cal out of the blue, I still didnt feel any proper attraction. Cal said from the start he liked Bobby, but his attitude irrated Cal, taking away some of the attraction.
I never actually felt the change or proper attraction between them.
Bobby is a "partner" of sorts in the kitchen of Hearth&oak. Techinically its owned by Pete (or Chef Baldwin from book one) and his Husband Murph. When Cal, Petes cousin needs a job, Pete doesnt hesitate to offer his kitchen, esp, as both he and Murph will be away. However, both Murp and Pete had incidicated to Bobby it was to be HIS kitchen prior to this, as they were going to hire help for Bobby.
Cal and Bobby rub eachother up the wrong way from the start, as they both want to be in charge. This carries on for a number of weeks and when Bobby decides hes gonna be nicer to Cal out of the blue, I still didnt feel any proper attraction. Cal said from the start he liked Bobby, but his attitude irrated Cal, taking away some of the attraction.
I never actually felt the change or proper attraction between them.
October 31, 2024
Chef Bobby vs Chef Cal for the first part of the book. All caused by Bobby’s jealousy and insecurity at a new co chef in the kitchen when he thought it would be him alone after the owners left temporarily to do their new Food Network show.
No one talked. Cal kept putting up with Bobby’s outrageous behavior and Bobby wouldn’t use his words to say what he was feeling. I’ve read Bourdain’s ‘Kitchen Confidential.’ Maybe this is how it goes in a busy high star restaurant. It was unpleasant to read, which didn’t redeem the book when the two chefs kissed and made up.
I have in my notes: Cal needed therapy. Baldwin was odd. (He was) I liked Murphy and Bobby. (I liked Bobby?)
DNF 74%
No one talked. Cal kept putting up with Bobby’s outrageous behavior and Bobby wouldn’t use his words to say what he was feeling. I’ve read Bourdain’s ‘Kitchen Confidential.’ Maybe this is how it goes in a busy high star restaurant. It was unpleasant to read, which didn’t redeem the book when the two chefs kissed and made up.
I have in my notes: Cal needed therapy. Baldwin was odd. (He was) I liked Murphy and Bobby. (I liked Bobby?)
DNF 74%
January 18, 2020
Enjoyable, but I was really annoyed by Cal's indecision about the job. Even the initial "who's in charge" misunderstanding bugged me -- what, nobody can communicate with the great chef, not even his SO? I'm interested in the third book, but I think I'll be waiting a while before I read it.
added-it
June 27, 2021🎁Books 1 & 2 in the Series are FREE on Amazon today (6/27/2021)! 🎁
May 24, 2025
For some reason I never felt any chemistry, or even emotional investment with the characters. So things felt flat for me.
July 9, 2021
2.25 rounded down
Like the first book in this series, I really liked the characters and concept here, but the execution was way off. I'm kind of shocked the author was allowed to put these to print as-is; maybe half the book reads like a regular novel and then interspersed throughout are these little vignette scene snippets that fully read like an outline IMO that the author never actually fleshed out into actual scenes. It ends up making the book feel very half-assed and really throws off the pacing. I was also pretty unsatisfied with the ending
Frankly not looking forward to the final book but I'm curious now and they're quick reads so I'll probably give it a go.
Like the first book in this series, I really liked the characters and concept here, but the execution was way off. I'm kind of shocked the author was allowed to put these to print as-is; maybe half the book reads like a regular novel and then interspersed throughout are these little vignette scene snippets that fully read like an outline IMO that the author never actually fleshed out into actual scenes. It ends up making the book feel very half-assed and really throws off the pacing. I was also pretty unsatisfied with the ending
Frankly not looking forward to the final book but I'm curious now and they're quick reads so I'll probably give it a go.
July 24, 2022
a book that left me dumbfounded
Rating: 2.5🌈
Chef Vs Chef is the second of the four book Sizzle in the Kitchen series by M.J. O’Shea and it’s the one I’m stopping on.
Honestly I’m dumbfounded by this book. All the characters and elements I admired and found charming in the first book, which set the foundation for the series,have been deconstructed to fit a new narrative path for this and the following novels.
I see the author’s rationale for this. It’s the only way to make the other plots and characters work now. But it changes the person I loved the most, at his most fundamental level.
That’s Peter Baldwin Powell.
When we left him. And throughout Chef in the Wild, he was done. All Peter wanted was to cook, go home, get involved once again with his family’s lives, have his restaurant.
“"I don’t want to be somewhere high pressure again. I don't want to have to care about Michelin stars or shaking hands with celebrities, but I miss cooking for people."”
— Chef in the Wild: Sizzle in the Kitchen Book One by M.J. O'Shea
There’s quotes after quotes to the same depth of feelings.
Here? Peter’s turns his beloved now successful Hearth&Oak restaurant in Montpelier, Vermont, over to be run by others. Why? He’s become a TV Food Network Celebrity Chef filming a TV show back in NYC, and more.
He’s the opposite of the man we saw at the end of Chef in the Wild. Content, home. With family and a new love at his side, every bit a man fulfilled and passionate again.
While you can connect with the men, Peter, Murphy, and Bobby, his former sui chef now almost a partner, a threefold force in the Hearth&Oak kitchen and restaurant, that strength is quickly lost in the story.
Murphy and Peter leave to NYC and TV, while a shaken Bobby remains behind to deal with a badly handed decision to bring in another chef to fill the void.
Issues here immediately:
1. Bobby is a close knit friend and part of the trifecta that runs the restaurant. But he’s not involved in the decision process or Informed that another is coming into the management?
This again seems to be storytelling by drama lottery. It happens throughout this book and the next which I just stopped at partway. It’s as though a drama was needed at this point in the story, so regardless of whatever went on before, a new narrative was created to fit the picture.
All of a sudden, Peter’s a different type of careless personality, the type to hurt his friends. He will change again with regard to a “old enemy “.
Continuity has little impact here.
Unless it’s the author’s fondness for characters that are unable to communicate and run constantly from any conflict.
That was Murphy in book 1. It’s Cal here.
That’s a dynamic O’Shea’s couples follow in the two books I’ve read in this series . One’s a steady , established personality, the other someone who uses their past history as an excuse not to communicate and to run from the relationship at each moment possible.
Then of course come back and be immediately forgiven.
With little discussion.
I like Bobby. But there’s very little building here when it comes to a relationship to make the reader care about them and their future. Especially Cal.
And the manner in which he returned and who he works for. Nothing made sense except the author needed it that way for the next even more unreadable and unrealistic novel.
These are supposed to be contemporary romance not fantasy. Narratively speaking, things should at least make sense, have some exposition, and a little character depth.
And without deconstructing a previous story to get it.
“Baldwin didn't know how to say that when he pictured his restaurant, it wasn't in New York. Not anymore. He didn't see flashing lights and packed houses. He saw something a lot more laid back and gentle. In the country, maybe. Or, at home.
He'd been daydreaming about it more and more–a small town restaurant, touring farms and working with local producers. He’d imagined waking up every day with Murph, creating new dishes with Murph and Bobby… watching his nieces grow up from a few blocks away instead of hundreds of miles.”
— Chef in the Wild: Sizzle in the Kitchen Book One by M.J. O'Shea
That’s the character and book I remembered and the one that’s vanished from the series here.
I think I’m going too.
If you’re a fan of this author, then pick it up and decide for yourself. As I said, I’m stopping here.
Sizzling in the Kitchen:
- [x] Chef in the Wild #1
- [x] Chef Vs Chef #2
- [ ] Chef On Top #3
- [ ] Chef In Love #4
Rating: 2.5🌈
Chef Vs Chef is the second of the four book Sizzle in the Kitchen series by M.J. O’Shea and it’s the one I’m stopping on.
Honestly I’m dumbfounded by this book. All the characters and elements I admired and found charming in the first book, which set the foundation for the series,have been deconstructed to fit a new narrative path for this and the following novels.
I see the author’s rationale for this. It’s the only way to make the other plots and characters work now. But it changes the person I loved the most, at his most fundamental level.
That’s Peter Baldwin Powell.
When we left him. And throughout Chef in the Wild, he was done. All Peter wanted was to cook, go home, get involved once again with his family’s lives, have his restaurant.
“"I don’t want to be somewhere high pressure again. I don't want to have to care about Michelin stars or shaking hands with celebrities, but I miss cooking for people."”
— Chef in the Wild: Sizzle in the Kitchen Book One by M.J. O'Shea
There’s quotes after quotes to the same depth of feelings.
Here? Peter’s turns his beloved now successful Hearth&Oak restaurant in Montpelier, Vermont, over to be run by others. Why? He’s become a TV Food Network Celebrity Chef filming a TV show back in NYC, and more.
He’s the opposite of the man we saw at the end of Chef in the Wild. Content, home. With family and a new love at his side, every bit a man fulfilled and passionate again.
While you can connect with the men, Peter, Murphy, and Bobby, his former sui chef now almost a partner, a threefold force in the Hearth&Oak kitchen and restaurant, that strength is quickly lost in the story.
Murphy and Peter leave to NYC and TV, while a shaken Bobby remains behind to deal with a badly handed decision to bring in another chef to fill the void.
Issues here immediately:
1. Bobby is a close knit friend and part of the trifecta that runs the restaurant. But he’s not involved in the decision process or Informed that another is coming into the management?
This again seems to be storytelling by drama lottery. It happens throughout this book and the next which I just stopped at partway. It’s as though a drama was needed at this point in the story, so regardless of whatever went on before, a new narrative was created to fit the picture.
All of a sudden, Peter’s a different type of careless personality, the type to hurt his friends. He will change again with regard to a “old enemy “.
Continuity has little impact here.
Unless it’s the author’s fondness for characters that are unable to communicate and run constantly from any conflict.
That was Murphy in book 1. It’s Cal here.
That’s a dynamic O’Shea’s couples follow in the two books I’ve read in this series . One’s a steady , established personality, the other someone who uses their past history as an excuse not to communicate and to run from the relationship at each moment possible.
Then of course come back and be immediately forgiven.
With little discussion.
I like Bobby. But there’s very little building here when it comes to a relationship to make the reader care about them and their future. Especially Cal.
And the manner in which he returned and who he works for. Nothing made sense except the author needed it that way for the next even more unreadable and unrealistic novel.
These are supposed to be contemporary romance not fantasy. Narratively speaking, things should at least make sense, have some exposition, and a little character depth.
And without deconstructing a previous story to get it.
“Baldwin didn't know how to say that when he pictured his restaurant, it wasn't in New York. Not anymore. He didn't see flashing lights and packed houses. He saw something a lot more laid back and gentle. In the country, maybe. Or, at home.
He'd been daydreaming about it more and more–a small town restaurant, touring farms and working with local producers. He’d imagined waking up every day with Murph, creating new dishes with Murph and Bobby… watching his nieces grow up from a few blocks away instead of hundreds of miles.”
— Chef in the Wild: Sizzle in the Kitchen Book One by M.J. O'Shea
That’s the character and book I remembered and the one that’s vanished from the series here.
I think I’m going too.
If you’re a fan of this author, then pick it up and decide for yourself. As I said, I’m stopping here.
Sizzling in the Kitchen:
- [x] Chef in the Wild #1
- [x] Chef Vs Chef #2
- [ ] Chef On Top #3
- [ ] Chef In Love #4
May 5, 2022
So this was another nice comfort read, maybe not quite as nice and comforting as the first book Chef in the Wild but I did enjoy it. My issue with this one was pretty much the same as the last book. Baldwin (Baldwin and Murph are back, yay) was still as non commutative as he was in the first book, he didn't seem to learn his lesson but this time it put two other guys at odds with each other. If he'd just learn to fill in the missing blanks a whole lot of misery could have be avoided. LOL Unfortunately, Bobby and Cal also had a problem with communicating and misunderstandings ensued which was beyond frustrating! That part of the story was a little too much like Chef in the Wild I would have rather had some other issue messing these guys up but hey the story was still entertaining and it all works out in the end.
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Quick easy comfort read -- again not butterfly inducing but sweet -- Chef/Chef pairing -- combatants to friends to lovers -- no real drama or angst -- miscommunication and misunderstandings (so annoying lol) -- really liked the MCs... Bobby & Cal -- satisfying ending -- returning characters -- happy to see Baldwin and Murph get their true HEA in this one, yay -- looking forward to starting the next book
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Quick easy comfort read -- again not butterfly inducing but sweet -- Chef/Chef pairing -- combatants to friends to lovers -- no real drama or angst -- miscommunication and misunderstandings (so annoying lol) -- really liked the MCs... Bobby & Cal -- satisfying ending -- returning characters -- happy to see Baldwin and Murph get their true HEA in this one, yay -- looking forward to starting the next book
June 13, 2019
3.75 Stars
Bobby and Cal were frustrating and truthfully, they both had a right to act the way they did, well, maybe. I guess I’m torn because both of them are under the impression, from the owner, Pete/Baldwin, that they will be in charge of his restaurant while he’s away, so in that respect, the conflict of the story is technically caused by Pete. But really, these guys, especially Bobby, could have been less of an ass throughout the story. Bobby could have pulled up his big boy shorts and been more mature about the situation. I actually had doubts that they would ever get past it.
There were things that I loved about the story. I loved the little town that the story is set in and while I’m not much of a cook, I liked backdrop of the story and the plot was good, but what didn’t really work for me was the romance. This is a uber slow-burn, but I felt even after they came together, it just wasn’t enough.
The romance definitely takes a backseat to running the restaurant and the food. Which reminds me, eat before you read this. The food descriptions are absolutely mouthwatering and plentiful.
While not my favorite Mj O’Shea story it’s well-written, but for me, I was missing the romance, chemistry and heat that I’m used to when reading one of this author’s books. Still, it was an enjoyable and recommendable read.
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
May 20, 2022
I didn’t think anything could top “Chef in the Wild” but “Chef vs Chef” certainly was very well done! I love the restaurant type of story. This one is a very good continuation from the first book in the series with two different MCs. The MCs from the first book were the minor characters in this one. Again, I’ll reiterate from my other reviews that the ones I really liked/loved should be made into a gay Hallmarkesque TV movie series!
For this second book, Bobby Diaz was the sous chef in the restaurant where Baldwin was the hotshot chef and got let go in the first book and was asked by Baldwin to move and partner with him in the new restaurant in the second book. Baldwin got a TV show deal and was going to have Bobby run the restaurant himself but because Baldwin’s cousin, Cal was in need of a job, decided to have both Bobby and Cal run the restaurant together. This caused Bobby to have some resentment toward Cal. When Cal first arrived, he thought Bobby was a hot guy. However, his attraction didn’t last very long because of the way Bobby treated him. To make matter worse, Baldwin asked Bobby to let Cal use the guest room in Bobby’s flat above the restaurant. Cal picked up on that and would throw some digs back. That is where I’m going to stop and encourage you to pick up the book and read to find out what happens. A very good read!
For this second book, Bobby Diaz was the sous chef in the restaurant where Baldwin was the hotshot chef and got let go in the first book and was asked by Baldwin to move and partner with him in the new restaurant in the second book. Baldwin got a TV show deal and was going to have Bobby run the restaurant himself but because Baldwin’s cousin, Cal was in need of a job, decided to have both Bobby and Cal run the restaurant together. This caused Bobby to have some resentment toward Cal. When Cal first arrived, he thought Bobby was a hot guy. However, his attraction didn’t last very long because of the way Bobby treated him. To make matter worse, Baldwin asked Bobby to let Cal use the guest room in Bobby’s flat above the restaurant. Cal picked up on that and would throw some digs back. That is where I’m going to stop and encourage you to pick up the book and read to find out what happens. A very good read!
May 14, 2022
I loved Bobby and Cal as characters, and their romance was a delightfully tension-filled slow burn, but I wanted more from their story. More than once, I found myself caught off guard by the passage of time, wishing that I knew more about what Cal and Bobby had experienced over the seasons. It made it harder to connect with what the two of them were feeling and why they had such sudden changes of heart when I felt separated from such a large chunk of their lives. The moments I did get to see were wonderfully engaging, and I got fully wrapped up in both the restaurant storyline and will-they-won't-they romance. I let myself bask in the happiness of Cal and Bobby's relationship and felt devastated when Cal panicked and ran away from his feelings. There was so much potential here for this story to really capture my heart, but instead the rough patches were glossed over for the fairy tale finish. I still think this was a really enjoyable book, and I loved getting to reconnect with Murph and B from the previous book, but I wasn't as satisfied as I expected to be when I reached the ending.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 2, 2019
This book is just as enjoyable, funny, and lighthearted as the first in the series, Chef in the Wild (which I do recommend reading first in order to get Baldwin and Murphy's story so as to appreciate their cuteness in this one even more). Chef vs Chef focuses on Cal and my favourite character so far, Bobby. Bobby is a caring friend to Baldwin and Murphy and genuinely wants to work as an equal in the kitchen. He therefore resents Cal, whom he assumes arrives to take on a leadership position in Baldwin's absence. Cal, having been hurt in the past by an ex-boyfriend and his previous kitchen job, finds it difficult to not take offense at Bobby's frosty reception. As a result, any instant attraction between the two is stifled in favour of animosity. The attraction still simmers under the surface, however, and all it takes is for a few defences to be let down in order for it to heat up. Despite a bit of heartache towards the end, this book is all warm and fuzzy and has a tonne of drool-worthy food descriptions. What more could you want?
[I kindly received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily providing an honest review].
[I kindly received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily providing an honest review].
June 3, 2019
Bobby finally feels like he's found a home in Montpelier and at Hearth&Oak and when Baldwin needs to travel often to New York, Bobby thinks that this is his opportunity to have control in a kitchen. All his dreams shatter,though,when Baldwin brings his cousin Cal to work with Bobby in the restaurant. Cal is happy for the chance but he doesn't understand why Bobby gives him the cold shoulder, and soon the atmosphere is difficult and tense.
Cal and Bobby are stunning and entertaining together. Their attraction is istant and I've had so much fun watching them try to hide and fight it. Among mouthwatering recipes and food talk,they're so sweet and endearing, and I was so glad when they finally decided to work out their differences and give in to their need for each other.
I love M.J. O'shea's writing. As per usual when I read one of this author's books, i feel right at home with the characters. Each time i finish one of her books I'm always left with a incredible feeling of home,family, friendship and love. Of course, Chef vs Chef is another lovely read to ad to my list of favorites.
Cal and Bobby are stunning and entertaining together. Their attraction is istant and I've had so much fun watching them try to hide and fight it. Among mouthwatering recipes and food talk,they're so sweet and endearing, and I was so glad when they finally decided to work out their differences and give in to their need for each other.
I love M.J. O'shea's writing. As per usual when I read one of this author's books, i feel right at home with the characters. Each time i finish one of her books I'm always left with a incredible feeling of home,family, friendship and love. Of course, Chef vs Chef is another lovely read to ad to my list of favorites.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2022
How many cooks can be in the kitchen? Bobby, moved to VT to work with his boss, Baldwin and his boyfriend, Murphy in his new concept restaurant. Cal, Baldwin's cousin, was kicked out of his home by his ex boyfriend Kent, who also got him fired from the restaurant they both worked at. Cal, went back home and got a job cooking in a diner. A year later, Bobby, Baldwin and Murphy all operated as a well lubricated machine. Then Bladwin got an excellent opportunity and asked Bobby to run the restaurant for him. Cal's Mom said he got the invitation from Baldwin to run his restaurant while he was gone. So, Cal and Bobby meet under a big professional misunderstanding that impacts their initial relationship. They both saw each other as totally hot and as interlopers. Can they get over this miscommunication? Can they find equality in the kitchen? Will Baldwin clarify everyone's roles? Will Cal stay? Interesting story. You want Cal and Bobby to hurry and have their conversation. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2022
Another amazing book in this incredible series! Side note…reading these books make me very hungry so word of warning don’t read these books on an empty stomach! Lol.
Chef vs Chef was an absolute blast to read! Bobby and Cal for sure started not he wrong foot. There was a deep dislike between these two men at first however they do manage to get out of their own ways and realize he true feeling they are having for one another. This is a very sweet, gentle and loving book once they accepted their feeling for each other. They are sizzling throughout the book and have some pretty amazing chemistry! I loves this beautiful romance between these two men and I’m so excited to jump right in to the next book!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 3rd Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 2 in the Sizzle in the Kitchen series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
Chef vs Chef was an absolute blast to read! Bobby and Cal for sure started not he wrong foot. There was a deep dislike between these two men at first however they do manage to get out of their own ways and realize he true feeling they are having for one another. This is a very sweet, gentle and loving book once they accepted their feeling for each other. They are sizzling throughout the book and have some pretty amazing chemistry! I loves this beautiful romance between these two men and I’m so excited to jump right in to the next book!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 3rd Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 2 in the Sizzle in the Kitchen series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
June 8, 2019
It's true that co-workers can be off with each ither , but fortunately this doesn't last long between our MCs and what follows is a sweetly written story.
There is hardly any angst, lots of food and two MCs who are clearly attracted to one another. There is instant chemistry between Cal and Bobby, in spite of a seemingly instant dislike, caused by the misunderstandings and assumptions about who they really are.
To get the best out of this story, you need to read the first book in the series, Chef In the Wild, which has a similar tone. Ultimately they're light hearted and well written reads. In Chef vs Chef, there's some upset towards the end of the book, but, on the whole, a nice story to read on a lazy sunny afternoon.
There is hardly any angst, lots of food and two MCs who are clearly attracted to one another. There is instant chemistry between Cal and Bobby, in spite of a seemingly instant dislike, caused by the misunderstandings and assumptions about who they really are.
To get the best out of this story, you need to read the first book in the series, Chef In the Wild, which has a similar tone. Ultimately they're light hearted and well written reads. In Chef vs Chef, there's some upset towards the end of the book, but, on the whole, a nice story to read on a lazy sunny afternoon.
June 18, 2019
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this latest effort by MJ O’Shea. Anything with chefs, especially chefs who fall in love, is right up my alley. All of the main characters were quite likable for the most part. Bobby was particularly prickly when Cal arrived, but I understood why. My only issue with the story was the inevitable conflict between the main couple. I felt it was a little forced and its resolution very rushed. The side characters, Murph and Baldwin/Pete, were great and I will definitely read the first book in the series to learn more about them and their sweet relationship. All in all, this was a good read, even though some of the characters frustrated me at times. lol
I received a copy of this book from the author via Signal Boost Promotions and voluntarily provided my honest review.
For more m/m romance reviews, visit Slashsessed.
I enjoyed this latest effort by MJ O’Shea. Anything with chefs, especially chefs who fall in love, is right up my alley. All of the main characters were quite likable for the most part. Bobby was particularly prickly when Cal arrived, but I understood why. My only issue with the story was the inevitable conflict between the main couple. I felt it was a little forced and its resolution very rushed. The side characters, Murph and Baldwin/Pete, were great and I will definitely read the first book in the series to learn more about them and their sweet relationship. All in all, this was a good read, even though some of the characters frustrated me at times. lol
I received a copy of this book from the author via Signal Boost Promotions and voluntarily provided my honest review.
For more m/m romance reviews, visit Slashsessed.
June 18, 2019
I enjoyed the beginning of the story. I haven't read the first book but I didn't feel as I'm missing certain points. The enemies to lovers trope is usually my favorite and I thought that's going to be the theme here. It was. To a degree.
I feel like 3 stars is way too much and in a way it is compared to other books. But that's for my enthusiasm in the first half of the book.
When Cal started acting hot and cold the story ended for me. There was nothing discussed between the caharacters when they finally got along. I hate this up and disappear for no reason. And then months go on and it gets more confusing. I felt like I was reading a sketch where whole chapters were missing. I'm not even kidding. I had to back paddle and check I'm on the right page.
I feel like 3 stars is way too much and in a way it is compared to other books. But that's for my enthusiasm in the first half of the book.
When Cal started acting hot and cold the story ended for me. There was nothing discussed between the caharacters when they finally got along. I hate this up and disappear for no reason. And then months go on and it gets more confusing. I felt like I was reading a sketch where whole chapters were missing. I'm not even kidding. I had to back paddle and check I'm on the right page.
June 26, 2019
M.J. O'Shea has become an insta-buy for me. Chef vs Chef just proved that once again this author knows how to write a great story that pulls you instantly in and with wonderful characters you care about. Bobby's sunny personality really took a dive when Cal was brought in. It was a bit shocking. Cal seemed a bit unsure of himself and where he belonged throughout the book. I liked that once Bobby changed his attitude about Cal things quickly fell into the place to where they would've been if they'd started off right. I was not impressed with Cal's bad choices but I loved his sincere apology and determination to win Bobby. I'm crossing my fingers that we get to see a lot more development between these guys in the next book.
May 17, 2022
A bit too slow for me
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review
This is the second book in the series by this author and I’ve got to say I was looking forward to it.
we got to know Bobby a little bit in the first book when he worked for Baldwin the main character. But I’ve Gotta say this was such a slow Burn that I felt about just putting it down so many times
Bobby goes to work for Baldwin in his new restaurant and this is where he meets Baldwin’s cousin Cal. They rub each other up the wrong way in the begin but it is obvious that there is an attraction between them. But it’s just too slow for me. Which is a real shame as I enjoyed the first book.
But I am still looking forward to the third book in the series..
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review
This is the second book in the series by this author and I’ve got to say I was looking forward to it.
we got to know Bobby a little bit in the first book when he worked for Baldwin the main character. But I’ve Gotta say this was such a slow Burn that I felt about just putting it down so many times
Bobby goes to work for Baldwin in his new restaurant and this is where he meets Baldwin’s cousin Cal. They rub each other up the wrong way in the begin but it is obvious that there is an attraction between them. But it’s just too slow for me. Which is a real shame as I enjoyed the first book.
But I am still looking forward to the third book in the series..
June 5, 2019
This is a fast read with wonderful characters and a setting I haven't read too much about in fiction. Bobby is working with his two friends as a chef and when his friend Baldwin gets an amazing opportunity, he puts Bobby in charge but also hires his cousin, Cal to work with him. Of course, Bobby doesn't like the new addition to the kitchen and Cal is trying his best to get back on his feet and make this opportunity work for him, so he doesn't understand the hostility from Bobby. But there is a simmering attraction between the two and when they finally work out their differences and get to know one another, sparks fly. A good read with wonderful characters.
May 17, 2022
I loved that first book in this series and the second was worth the wait. Hardcore city boy Bobby has finally set down roots in Vermont and is thriving. He is making great food with great friends and has built a family of his own but he is feeling lonely. Cal is Pete's cousin who had his promising life in Miami pulled from under his feet. In the span of a few hours his home, job, and boyfriend were gone. After licking his wounds at home he has landed in Vermont to try again. Both men struggle to find the security that they have been craving and find it hard to believe that they may have found it in each other.
May 18, 2022
Bobby and Cal were put in a difficult situation by Baldwin and their initial wariness and difficult relationship was perfectly understandable. Bobby thought he was getting a chance to show his stuff by running the restaurant and then he finds Baldwin has invited Cal to come help. Cal is thrown into the situation cold as well and feels out of place and unwanted and rather resents it as anyone would. Once they start to work together to keep the restaurant going, however, they get to know each other and misunderstandings are worked out. Another great entry in this series which I love for both its characters and all the talk about food.
May 18, 2022
Bobbie and Cal were rough around the edges from the very beginning they couldn’t see Eye to eye and they hardly got along but their chemistry was through the roof. Eventually their chemistry won out over not getting along but the more they got to know each other the more hate turned into love!
Even though the was a lot to work through and lots of ups & downs the love they have for each other helped them make it out on top! Their happy ending was so sweet! Them reuniting was super sweet as well! Can’t wait to see what’s next! 😀😀❤️❤️
Even though the was a lot to work through and lots of ups & downs the love they have for each other helped them make it out on top! Their happy ending was so sweet! Them reuniting was super sweet as well! Can’t wait to see what’s next! 😀😀❤️❤️
June 2, 2022
3.5 stars. The first half of the story gave me butterflies! Love when enemies get together. There was literally only one sex scene and it was lightly descriptive. So that was the start of the lacking in the descriptive area… their “amazing chemistry” wasn’t as obvious to the reader as it was for the characters. Cal’s return move to Miami wasn’t addressed clearly, as was his breakup with Bobby, his return to Vermont and he never talked about what happened with Kent with Bobby and also never got closure from him. A huge gap in the story ☹️
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