What do you think?
Rate this book
Family Kitchen #2
Recipe for Two
Wyatt Abbot is 19. On the outside, he lives the perfect life. He has a loving family, he’s wealthy, and he has just been given the opportunity to travel to Paris and train under one of the world’s best pastry chefs. But underneath all that, Wyatt is struggling. He’s battling anxiety, he’s scared of the future, and he’s struggling to come to terms with the fact that he’s genderfluid.
Izzy Kostas is 28, and on parole. When he gets a job at Abbot Organic Produce, it’s a chance for a new start. Izzy has his own demons he’s trying to overcome, but meeting Wyatt throws even more complications his way. Izzy has always thought of himself as straight, and certainly didn’t expect to fall for his boss’s little brother.
When Izzy is blamed for putting the Abbots at risk, it jeopardizes everything he and Wyatt have begun to build together. Izzy knows how important family is to Wyatt, and he doesn’t want him to have to take sides. But when it comes to found families, nobody is perfect, and there’s always room for another seat at the table.
Izzy Kostas is 28, and on parole. When he gets a job at Abbot Organic Produce, it’s a chance for a new start. Izzy has his own demons he’s trying to overcome, but meeting Wyatt throws even more complications his way. Izzy has always thought of himself as straight, and certainly didn’t expect to fall for his boss’s little brother.
When Izzy is blamed for putting the Abbots at risk, it jeopardizes everything he and Wyatt have begun to build together. Izzy knows how important family is to Wyatt, and he doesn’t want him to have to take sides. But when it comes to found families, nobody is perfect, and there’s always room for another seat at the table.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2020
15 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Tia Fielding
68 books228 followersTia Fielding is a Finnish author who loves witty people, words, peppermint, sarcasm, autumn, and the tiny beautiful things in life.
Tia identifies as genderqueer but isn’t strict about pronouns. Why? Because luckily, in her native language there aren’t gender-specific pronouns.
These days, preferring to live in the middle of nowhere with her fur babies is as big of a part of her psyche as writing. Tia likes to recharge in nature and tends to watch where she’s going through her cell phone’s camera.
In 2013 Tia’s novel Falling Into Place was recognized by the industry’s Rainbow Awards in the Best LGBT Erotic Romance (Bobby Michaels Award) category.
In 2019, her novel Four (Love by Numbers #2) won a Rainbow Award in the Best Transgender Contemporary category.
Facebook Reader Group: facebook.com/groups/spoondrawer/
Twitter: @tiafielding
Email: tiafielding@gmail.com
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/tiafielding
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 27, 2020
5 BIG stars!
After reading the first absolutely overwhelming story Family Recipe I thought this story couldn’t be surpassed, but guess what, Recipe for Two is just as overwhelming!
It was a precious, heartfelt story. I loved it hard!
The Abbot family live a good life, they are honest and involved with each other, they work hard and serve the community as best as they can.
The story tells the past throughout this story so you’ll understand the whole picture.
Wyatt is Del/Dad’s right hand with cooking and baking, from a very young age Dad involved him in the kitchen and Wyatt is a natural.
Wyatt sees the new guy arrive at their property, a guy with a ‘bad boy’ attitude.
Little does he know because when they meet, Izzy is all Wyatt ever could wish for.
Izzy is just out of prison and on parole, getting an opportunity to work for Abbot Organic Produce.
He is grateful for this opportunity and wants to make the best of it. Meeting Wyatt is something special. In no time there is a strong bond.
Life isn’t fair with Izzy and his chance for a better future is almost lost, read: almost because this is a story about second chances, courage, and unconditional love.
I loved everything about Wyatt, his guys day, the girly days, the in-between days, his beautiful skin and brown eyes, his insecurities, his courage, his strong heart full of love. My heart hurt when he felt hurt. I loved the precious words Izzy whispers to Wyatt. Both show their vulnerability to each other, both sometimes weighed down by their anxieties.
The doses hurt and comfort throughout this story was palpable and made my eyes blurry more than once.
This is how a family should be, this is how you accept each other, how you love!
Gosh, I was flabbergasted by all of them. And just as in book #1 Del/Dad was the glue that holds everything close, he was and is my hero.
The warmth and the big hearts of the Abbot family were greatly palpable. This story can be read as a stand-alone there is enough explanation about the family and their history, but please read Family Recipe too, if possible even first, you’ll love everything about it. My heart exploded while reading.
Back to this story, it’s just as overwhelming and my heart was out of rhythm more than once.
This is how you tell a story, these authors have an exceptional way of storytelling, I was glued to the pages. The story was thoroughly developed, the environments extraordinary and original. The whole journey made me feel emotional and after I finished it I was left very satisfied.
Highly recommended!
After reading the first absolutely overwhelming story Family Recipe I thought this story couldn’t be surpassed, but guess what, Recipe for Two is just as overwhelming!
It was a precious, heartfelt story. I loved it hard!
The Abbot family live a good life, they are honest and involved with each other, they work hard and serve the community as best as they can.
The story tells the past throughout this story so you’ll understand the whole picture.
Wyatt is Del/Dad’s right hand with cooking and baking, from a very young age Dad involved him in the kitchen and Wyatt is a natural.
Wyatt sees the new guy arrive at their property, a guy with a ‘bad boy’ attitude.
Little does he know because when they meet, Izzy is all Wyatt ever could wish for.
Izzy is just out of prison and on parole, getting an opportunity to work for Abbot Organic Produce.
He is grateful for this opportunity and wants to make the best of it. Meeting Wyatt is something special. In no time there is a strong bond.
Life isn’t fair with Izzy and his chance for a better future is almost lost, read: almost because this is a story about second chances, courage, and unconditional love.
I loved everything about Wyatt, his guys day, the girly days, the in-between days, his beautiful skin and brown eyes, his insecurities, his courage, his strong heart full of love. My heart hurt when he felt hurt. I loved the precious words Izzy whispers to Wyatt. Both show their vulnerability to each other, both sometimes weighed down by their anxieties.
The doses hurt and comfort throughout this story was palpable and made my eyes blurry more than once.
This is how a family should be, this is how you accept each other, how you love!
Gosh, I was flabbergasted by all of them. And just as in book #1 Del/Dad was the glue that holds everything close, he was and is my hero.
The warmth and the big hearts of the Abbot family were greatly palpable. This story can be read as a stand-alone there is enough explanation about the family and their history, but please read Family Recipe too, if possible even first, you’ll love everything about it. My heart exploded while reading.
Back to this story, it’s just as overwhelming and my heart was out of rhythm more than once.
This is how you tell a story, these authors have an exceptional way of storytelling, I was glued to the pages. The story was thoroughly developed, the environments extraordinary and original. The whole journey made me feel emotional and after I finished it I was left very satisfied.
Highly recommended!
August 27, 2024
Wyatt's story was a delight. I was so happy to see his HEA after what he (and all the Abbots) went through in Family Recipe. I really was touched by his character and his struggles. Del was amazing and Justin was struggling with his full-on overprotective brother instincts.
Wyatt's love interest, Izzy, also had a rough time of it but the way he dotes on and adores Wyatt was so special. Their story was sweet, angsty, a bit heartbreaking and, of course, full of love. It was nice to see all the kids doing well and Harper still in big sister slayer mode!
The only things stopping this from being 5 stars is that I feel like we missed a bit of Wyatt and Izzy connecting in the beginning, and the abrupt ending, otherwise I loved it.
Wyatt's love interest, Izzy, also had a rough time of it but the way he dotes on and adores Wyatt was so special. Their story was sweet, angsty, a bit heartbreaking and, of course, full of love. It was nice to see all the kids doing well and Harper still in big sister slayer mode!
The only things stopping this from being 5 stars is that I feel like we missed a bit of Wyatt and Izzy connecting in the beginning, and the abrupt ending, otherwise I loved it.
March 23, 2020
Oh, how I love Tia Fielding and Lisa Henry's Recipe for Two! This follow up to Family Recipe is absolutely fantastic! The start is good, but a little slow. But as soon as the main characters meet, I found myself living and breathing these men and their lives.
A heartfelt and beautiful story, it focuses on Wyatt and Izzy. Wyatt's confused, scared, and unable to tell anyone his truth. Izzy's an ex-con who's hired to work on Wyatt's family farm. From there we get a tender and sweet romance between two men who have an instant connection.
Upon meeting Wyatt, Izzy finds someone who see beyond his past. Wyatt sees him for who he is and gives him the strength to be the person he wants to be. Basically Wyatt saves him by trusting him and loving him. Add in that Izzy's never fallen for a guy before, and the reader is treated to some amazing first times.
And then there's Wyatt's situation. Poor Wyatt has a secret he can't admit to anyone. I don't want to give anything away, but his secret is amazingly well explored, written with care and compassion. I found myself madly in love with this character, wanting to hug, protect, and encourage him myself. I definitely teared up at times throughout this aspect of the story.
These are two men who bring out the best in one another. They are realistic characters who impress the hell out of me. They have a lot to deal with, including some crippling anxiety, some health concerns and some major complications. The anxiety is so damn realistic and absolutely gut-wrenching. I could seriously feel the anxiety myself, and I love how the authors handle this throughout.
And the family. Oh the family. I absolutely love them! This group who we met in Family Recipe is super supportive and loving. They are tested at times, but they are what family should be.
This is a story that illustrates severe anxiety attacks, PTSD, and a whole lot of character growth. This is a story of overcoming all odds with the support of loved ones. This story is an emotional roller coaster that tugs at my heartstrings often.
The writing is stellar, with multi-layered characters and some serious, thought-provoking topics. The character growth is ever present and amazing. The angst is well done; just the right amount, and the ending is perfect!
I just love everything about Recipe For Two. This Tia Fielding and Lisa Henry book is fabulous. I am thrilled to have gotten a chance to revisit the characters from Family Recipe, as well as getting to know new ones.
A heartfelt and beautiful story, it focuses on Wyatt and Izzy. Wyatt's confused, scared, and unable to tell anyone his truth. Izzy's an ex-con who's hired to work on Wyatt's family farm. From there we get a tender and sweet romance between two men who have an instant connection.
Upon meeting Wyatt, Izzy finds someone who see beyond his past. Wyatt sees him for who he is and gives him the strength to be the person he wants to be. Basically Wyatt saves him by trusting him and loving him. Add in that Izzy's never fallen for a guy before, and the reader is treated to some amazing first times.
And then there's Wyatt's situation. Poor Wyatt has a secret he can't admit to anyone. I don't want to give anything away, but his secret is amazingly well explored, written with care and compassion. I found myself madly in love with this character, wanting to hug, protect, and encourage him myself. I definitely teared up at times throughout this aspect of the story.
These are two men who bring out the best in one another. They are realistic characters who impress the hell out of me. They have a lot to deal with, including some crippling anxiety, some health concerns and some major complications. The anxiety is so damn realistic and absolutely gut-wrenching. I could seriously feel the anxiety myself, and I love how the authors handle this throughout.
And the family. Oh the family. I absolutely love them! This group who we met in Family Recipe is super supportive and loving. They are tested at times, but they are what family should be.
This is a story that illustrates severe anxiety attacks, PTSD, and a whole lot of character growth. This is a story of overcoming all odds with the support of loved ones. This story is an emotional roller coaster that tugs at my heartstrings often.
The writing is stellar, with multi-layered characters and some serious, thought-provoking topics. The character growth is ever present and amazing. The angst is well done; just the right amount, and the ending is perfect!
I just love everything about Recipe For Two. This Tia Fielding and Lisa Henry book is fabulous. I am thrilled to have gotten a chance to revisit the characters from Family Recipe, as well as getting to know new ones.
August 17, 2022
I absolutely loved this character driven story. Both Izzy and Wyatt were amazing in their simple complexity. Ms. Fielding did a good job in getting Wyatt's fears and insecurities across without making him a basket case. The family thread along with the romance provided all of the feels I look for in a five star read. Highly recommended.
January 30, 2024
Re-read January 30, 2024
April 5, 2024
Una lectura fácil y muy dulce pero tan irreal que acaba aburriendo de tanta bondad.
May 26, 2020
Great
4 stars
Good follow up from “Family Recipe” that sees Wyatt all grown up. I enjoyed Wyatt as he was, he was still questioning who he was and how he fit and seeing him start to understand and accept himself with Izzy’s attraction and approval of all of him was great.
I loved Izzy. He wasn’t perfect and he was written really well. He had reactions to new things that weren’t great but then he walked away and knew straightaway that he did not react to that well. He didn’t just leave it at that he went and researched and educated himself so he could talk to Wyatt and understand where he was coming from. This was well done.
The great conflict was hard to read as I understood where they all were coming from, but Justin’s stubbornness was a bit annoying. He could see both of them were suffering mentally and physically and yet he still wouldn’t give in.
All in all a great follow up to Family Recipe and if you enjoyed that the you will enjoy this one.
4 stars
Good follow up from “Family Recipe” that sees Wyatt all grown up. I enjoyed Wyatt as he was, he was still questioning who he was and how he fit and seeing him start to understand and accept himself with Izzy’s attraction and approval of all of him was great.
I loved Izzy. He wasn’t perfect and he was written really well. He had reactions to new things that weren’t great but then he walked away and knew straightaway that he did not react to that well. He didn’t just leave it at that he went and researched and educated himself so he could talk to Wyatt and understand where he was coming from. This was well done.
The great conflict was hard to read as I understood where they all were coming from, but Justin’s stubbornness was a bit annoying. He could see both of them were suffering mentally and physically and yet he still wouldn’t give in.
All in all a great follow up to Family Recipe and if you enjoyed that the you will enjoy this one.
July 12, 2020
Wow did Justin irk me this time around. I LOVED Wyatt though and Izzy.
January 4, 2022
Awesome story!
March 20, 2021
While I enjoyed Wyatt as a character, I didn’t connect to Izzy or the story in general. It was also too insta-love and a lot of their bonding happened off page. And the sex scenes were very similar to the first book with Justin and Del. I did end up skimming over the last part.
Also, I can’t help but think that it’s a bit of a dick move to talk about maybe also opening a coffee shop after it being pointed out there is a coffee shop directly cross from the building you are talking about adding a coffee shop to. I can’t think that would make you too popular with the neighbours.
Also, I can’t help but think that it’s a bit of a dick move to talk about maybe also opening a coffee shop after it being pointed out there is a coffee shop directly cross from the building you are talking about adding a coffee shop to. I can’t think that would make you too popular with the neighbours.
June 1, 2023
Wow this was even better than I hoped for. Wyatt had my heart from the beginning of book one and this one had my heart growing.
Izzy was a heartbreaker too, his vulnerability was heart wrenching.
I loved how he treated Wyatt, although I admit easy way he went from straight to pan felt a little to unrealistic, but I still loved this love story.
I would love to see more of this family, maybe Wyatt and Izzy could adopt one day lol.
Overall a sweet but emotional story that had me needing the tissues.
Izzy was a heartbreaker too, his vulnerability was heart wrenching.
I loved how he treated Wyatt, although I admit easy way he went from straight to pan felt a little to unrealistic, but I still loved this love story.
I would love to see more of this family, maybe Wyatt and Izzy could adopt one day lol.
Overall a sweet but emotional story that had me needing the tissues.
August 13, 2020
All the Ingredients for Sweet Love!
Sweet, introverted Wyatt spots bad boy Izzy and it’s lust at first sight, but it’s also an ingredient for much more. I enjoyed this story, the MCs, the setting, and the co-characters. Yes, it’s full of the usual tropes, and there are no surprises but it’s charming tale.
The only blimp, is the nefarious incident, a bit unbelievable, a bit lame. Still, an enjoyable read.
Sweet, introverted Wyatt spots bad boy Izzy and it’s lust at first sight, but it’s also an ingredient for much more. I enjoyed this story, the MCs, the setting, and the co-characters. Yes, it’s full of the usual tropes, and there are no surprises but it’s charming tale.
The only blimp, is the nefarious incident, a bit unbelievable, a bit lame. Still, an enjoyable read.
February 24, 2022
3,75
Szczerze mówiąc, to dzisiaj jest parszywy dzień na to, żeby cokolwiek pisać 🙁 Ale skrobnę kilka zdań, choć nie mam na to specjalnie ochoty - i książka nie ma tutaj nic do tego...
Nie wiem dlaczego, nie jest to ujęte razem z Family Recipe jako seria... Te książki są jak naczynia połączone... Wyatt, który jest jednym z głównych MC w tym tomie, w poprzednim był absolutnie moim ulubieńcem z trójki dzieciaków. Wtedy 4-letni, praktycznie nic niemówiący, poważny, cichy cień Dela, zaanektował (cóż za parszywe słowo dzisiaj...) moje serducho na amen.
Teraz, po 15 latach, ciągle pełny niepokoju, nie mogący się przyznać, że nie chce robić tego, co Del myśli, że sprawia mu przyjemność, niepewny co do swojej seksualności i bojący się przyznać komukolwiek - również samemu sobie, że tak naprawdę ma płynną płeć (choć jakoś zdecydowanie wolę tutaj termin angielski "genderfluid"), jest świetnym bohaterem.
Izzy, były więzień, jest w sumie prostym, choć wcale niegłupim człowiekiem. Wie, że dał dupska w przeszłości, jest zdeterminowany nie popaść w dawne nałogi i nawyki. Może przez to, że nie analizuje każdej myśli, każdego zachowania, każdej wypowiedzi, jest w stanie niemalże z marszu wziąć na klatę i swoje nagłe, nieoczekiwane zainteresowanie Wyattem, jak i jego płynną płeć. Wydaje się to naturalne, nie miałam problemów z tym, aby mu uwierzyć...
Ponownie, jak i pierwsza część, książka nie jest idealna. Ponownie miejscami pewnych rzeczy mi brakowało. Ponownie końcówka zadecydowała o ocenie, choć do pewnego momentu znowu miała być mocna czwórka. Ale ponownie myślę, że i ta część była zdecydowanie warta mojego czasu 😁
Szczerze mówiąc, to dzisiaj jest parszywy dzień na to, żeby cokolwiek pisać 🙁 Ale skrobnę kilka zdań, choć nie mam na to specjalnie ochoty - i książka nie ma tutaj nic do tego...
Nie wiem dlaczego, nie jest to ujęte razem z Family Recipe jako seria... Te książki są jak naczynia połączone... Wyatt, który jest jednym z głównych MC w tym tomie, w poprzednim był absolutnie moim ulubieńcem z trójki dzieciaków. Wtedy 4-letni, praktycznie nic niemówiący, poważny, cichy cień Dela, zaanektował (cóż za parszywe słowo dzisiaj...) moje serducho na amen.
Teraz, po 15 latach, ciągle pełny niepokoju, nie mogący się przyznać, że nie chce robić tego, co Del myśli, że sprawia mu przyjemność, niepewny co do swojej seksualności i bojący się przyznać komukolwiek - również samemu sobie, że tak naprawdę ma płynną płeć (choć jakoś zdecydowanie wolę tutaj termin angielski "genderfluid"), jest świetnym bohaterem.
Izzy, były więzień, jest w sumie prostym, choć wcale niegłupim człowiekiem. Wie, że dał dupska w przeszłości, jest zdeterminowany nie popaść w dawne nałogi i nawyki. Może przez to, że nie analizuje każdej myśli, każdego zachowania, każdej wypowiedzi, jest w stanie niemalże z marszu wziąć na klatę i swoje nagłe, nieoczekiwane zainteresowanie Wyattem, jak i jego płynną płeć. Wydaje się to naturalne, nie miałam problemów z tym, aby mu uwierzyć...
Ponownie, jak i pierwsza część, książka nie jest idealna. Ponownie miejscami pewnych rzeczy mi brakowało. Ponownie końcówka zadecydowała o ocenie, choć do pewnego momentu znowu miała być mocna czwórka. Ale ponownie myślę, że i ta część była zdecydowanie warta mojego czasu 😁
November 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this instalment to the Family Kitchen Series but I wasn't as invested as I was to the first story and I'm not exactly sure why. Wyatt and Izzy's story is also both heartbreaking and heartwarming but also oh, so, sweet.
I love how I got to find out what happened to Justin and Del as the years went by, it's what I thought was missing from their story but now I feel like I'm missing that with Wyatt and Izzy's story. An epilogue taking place a few years later would be nice. :)
Overall a really great series!
March 14, 2021
okay, so all the issues i had with the first book in the series were magnified tenfold for its sequel. like, it's hard to be super invested in a couple when they're confessing their undying love to each other by, like, the third time they meet lol. wyatt and izzy were both a couple of sweeties, and i liked that all of their drama came from sources outside of their relationship with each other or w/e, but overall the book just didn't totally sell me on the romance all that much.
April 11, 2025
This was cute, but it kind of got too sappy for me towards the end. Like, come one, guys, you' known each other for like a month and you already can't live without the other? It was just a bit too ridiculous for me, but it's probably a me problem.
January 28, 2023
I love this book, I love this Family Recipe series, I love Wyatt and his family so much! And I love Izzy. Izzy and Wyatt are so good together. I'm going to miss them all.
March 24, 2020
Recipe for Two is the second book within an interconnected series coauthored by Mx Fielding and Miss Henry, but can definitely be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I jumped at opportunity to read this release. Recipe for Two proved to be one of those rare times when the second book proves to be even better than the first of the series, ensuring I will be looking forward to any future writing endeavors these authors undertake.
I love that Recipe for Two features one of the children we met in Family Recipe as an adult. Although this allowed readers to jump right into this book without reading the first, it made for an extra special experience for those of us who did read Family Recipe. I enjoyed the chance at following up with Wyatt, but the opportunity to get glimpses of the rest of the family as they thrived in their new life filled with love and support was amazing. But even ignoring the connections to the first book of the series, Recipe for Two was fantastic. I loved the way Wyatt’s character developed as he explored and accepted his gender fluidity. I also loved the pairing of Wyatt and Izzy, particularly how they supported and found strength in one another’s unconditional love and acceptance. Like Family Recipe, the relationship between Izzy and Wyatt moves forward quickly, but this time it didn’t feel lacking in development or as though there were steps missed as these two got to know one another, although that may be owing to Izzy and Wyatt having less complex circumstances to navigate. Either way, I loved Recipe for Two and would recommend it to readers who like found family romances or stories that feature gender fluid characters.
*eARC received from author. The publisher and authors had no influence over this review*
I love that Recipe for Two features one of the children we met in Family Recipe as an adult. Although this allowed readers to jump right into this book without reading the first, it made for an extra special experience for those of us who did read Family Recipe. I enjoyed the chance at following up with Wyatt, but the opportunity to get glimpses of the rest of the family as they thrived in their new life filled with love and support was amazing. But even ignoring the connections to the first book of the series, Recipe for Two was fantastic. I loved the way Wyatt’s character developed as he explored and accepted his gender fluidity. I also loved the pairing of Wyatt and Izzy, particularly how they supported and found strength in one another’s unconditional love and acceptance. Like Family Recipe, the relationship between Izzy and Wyatt moves forward quickly, but this time it didn’t feel lacking in development or as though there were steps missed as these two got to know one another, although that may be owing to Izzy and Wyatt having less complex circumstances to navigate. Either way, I loved Recipe for Two and would recommend it to readers who like found family romances or stories that feature gender fluid characters.
*eARC received from author. The publisher and authors had no influence over this review*
March 23, 2020
Wyatt is genderfluid, although he doesn't recognize this as he looks in the mirror and tries to feel comfortable in his own skin. A very traumatic young childhood has left him shy, reclusive and awkward. Being Hispanic doesn't help when his siblings are all white. His life is in turmoil. He wants to be a simple baker, but feels he is committed to be more as he mentioned to his family one time a while back and now they have taken up the "mantle" for him. His older brother Justin is his brother and father as he stepped into take care of him and his sisters when their mom died. Justin's famous chef husband is the one that wyatt and the girls call dad. Izzy is an ex-con who gets a job at Justin's greenhouses. Wyatt and Izzy lay eyes on each other and the spark between them is instant and permanent. Things are not easy and this story twists at your heartstrings as the two men go through separation, robbery, loss of trust from Justin, severe anxiety attacks use of ativan and marijuana to ease the attacks, PTSD, misunderstandings, neglectful and often endangered childhoods and a love that cannot be stopped. I used more than one kleenex to get through this poignant, sad, sexy, loving, sometimes painful book. I didn't read the first book and wished I had as it would have added even more depth to the story although definitely was a standalone book. I plan on reading it as soon as I can to get Justin's and Del's story. A story and a series worth reading. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book
March 24, 2020
Oh boy, this one was a heavy hitter. Sometimes there's hesitancy, at least on my part, to read books that feature heavy content. However, it's during times like these (necessary self-isolation due to the epidemic) that I can truly appreciate what stories like these have to teach us. Sometimes you have to slow down and allow yourself to think and experience. And these two MC's truly had their own individual experiences that made a great story. Loved the gender fluid main character and the opposites attract trope here. I would argue that there are several tropes playing into the overall plot, but they do not detract or add needless drama from the main story. There's a lot of issues that are featured in this book, but the resolution of those issues was authentic to me. There was no magic wand that waved away the problems, instead communication and the need for it was apparent within these two main characters and their love story. I can honestly say that this is one book you do not want to pass on.
*ARC in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC in exchange for an honest review*
May 17, 2020
This was lovely. I loved both Wyatt and Izzy and their relationship progress felt so natural. I enjoyed the other family members more in this one, too, and also really liked the other workers at the farm.
There was a good balance with the angst and Wyatt's struggles hit me hard and I loved seeing him grow into 'himself'. There were some familiar elements brought back from Family Recipe and I really appreciated those.
The switching POV's with their slightly overlapping timelines threw me off occasionally in Family Recipe, but here that didn't bother me too much. I really would've liked an epilogue for this one but still the ending was great as it was.
There was a good balance with the angst and Wyatt's struggles hit me hard and I loved seeing him grow into 'himself'. There were some familiar elements brought back from Family Recipe and I really appreciated those.
The switching POV's with their slightly overlapping timelines threw me off occasionally in Family Recipe, but here that didn't bother me too much. I really would've liked an epilogue for this one but still the ending was great as it was.
March 25, 2020
This book was just perfect!
I was an emotional wreck for a good part of it, but it was so worth it... On the other hand, behind back with the Abbott family was like having my favorite cozy blanket cocoon me.
Wyatt is now almost 20, but he's scared, he doesn't really want to make decisions about what to do with his life and who he really is, partly because he doesn't want to disappoint his family. When he meets Izzy, ex-con, weed smoker, supposedly straight, Wyatt knows that his crush cannot lead nowhere... Or, can it?
A sweet story of self discovery and love. Simply beautiful.
I was an emotional wreck for a good part of it, but it was so worth it... On the other hand, behind back with the Abbott family was like having my favorite cozy blanket cocoon me.
Wyatt is now almost 20, but he's scared, he doesn't really want to make decisions about what to do with his life and who he really is, partly because he doesn't want to disappoint his family. When he meets Izzy, ex-con, weed smoker, supposedly straight, Wyatt knows that his crush cannot lead nowhere... Or, can it?
A sweet story of self discovery and love. Simply beautiful.
May 6, 2020
I loved reading this book.
I’m so happy there is a book after Family Recipe, and we got to spend more time with the Abbots.
Izzy & Wyatt are such genuine, unique characters. Both of them had their anxiety & insecurity front and center, but we also got this fantastic love story that was fast and a slow burn. They had an amazing connection.
I was touched by how much we got to see if how a person’s past affects how they interact with the world — whether that was Wyatt & Izzy or Justin & Del.
I’m so happy there is a book after Family Recipe, and we got to spend more time with the Abbots.
Izzy & Wyatt are such genuine, unique characters. Both of them had their anxiety & insecurity front and center, but we also got this fantastic love story that was fast and a slow burn. They had an amazing connection.
I was touched by how much we got to see if how a person’s past affects how they interact with the world — whether that was Wyatt & Izzy or Justin & Del.
June 15, 2020
4.5 stars, rounding up. I really enjoyed the first book in this duology, and this sequel of sorts is even better. It's hard to say why I liked it so much, but the two MCs are both wonderful: Wyatt struggling with gender identity and career path, Izzy determined to break away from his past and keep his place at the farm. I especially liked how Wyatt is instantly smitten with Izzy, but Izzy doesn't really notice Wyatt at first, too focused on other things (and, of course, Wyatt isn't trying to be seen). So, it all develops really realistically. Highly recommended.
March 25, 2020
A beautiful story of finding acceptance within yourself and others.
Wyatt is such a kind, gentle soul.
I really enjoyed seeing him grow into himself and gain strength and confidence with Izzy's help.
Izzy was amazingly gentle with Wyatt and realized he deserves happinesss well.
Of course the whole Abbott family is full of wonderfully quirky characters that take your spirit on a journey into love, laughter and HEA.
Wyatt is such a kind, gentle soul.
I really enjoyed seeing him grow into himself and gain strength and confidence with Izzy's help.
Izzy was amazingly gentle with Wyatt and realized he deserves happinesss well.
Of course the whole Abbott family is full of wonderfully quirky characters that take your spirit on a journey into love, laughter and HEA.
April 13, 2020
Amazing! I read this out of sync because I really love stories with ex-con misunderstood bad boys. How could I resist?
This story did it so well, Izzy is such a delight full bristling with hope and insecurities. The story is so much more too - not least the joy of food and the delights of baking.
I am enraptured.
Off now to read book one (having really grown to care about the family), I’m looking forward to catching up with them again, fifteen years earlier.
This story did it so well, Izzy is such a delight full bristling with hope and insecurities. The story is so much more too - not least the joy of food and the delights of baking.
I am enraptured.
Off now to read book one (having really grown to care about the family), I’m looking forward to catching up with them again, fifteen years earlier.
May 23, 2020
This book was even better than the first one. Loved Wyatt and Izzy's story. So many feels. A bit over-dramatic with both MCs having anxiety disorder but can it happen in real life too.
I think an epilogue would have been nice with showing how things went with the bakery but I'm fine with the way things have ended. It also allows for a starter of another book in the series if the authors decide to continue with the Abbott family and friends.
I think an epilogue would have been nice with showing how things went with the bakery but I'm fine with the way things have ended. It also allows for a starter of another book in the series if the authors decide to continue with the Abbott family and friends.
September 17, 2020
This is another LGBTQetc romances I've been reading lately. This one's all about the T, or maybe the Q... gender-fluid anyway. It's the bad-boy love interest and the sweet, innocent protagonist--or maybe vice versa--except the protagonist isn't always a boy. Smart dialog, good characters, and the unfolding love affair is unexpectedly sweet as the two try to figure out what "gender-fluid" means, when one of them is living it.
October 25, 2021
Wyatt Abbott is 19 and is genderfluid. He meets a new employee in his brother's greenhouse and it is love at first sight. However, love stories are never without problems so of course there are difficulties. Both Wyatt and Izzy have panic-type issues and issues around their past.
How will they deal with the resistance from Wyatt's family and make a go of their relationship? Or will they?
It is a good story about hope, and acceptance.
How will they deal with the resistance from Wyatt's family and make a go of their relationship? Or will they?
It is a good story about hope, and acceptance.
May 13, 2020
Adorable
I thought I loved the first one, but this one was even better! So many truths. I suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and it’s nice when someone explaining it gets it right.
I do really wish there was a good epilogue though. Now I feel cutoff at the end with a bunch of happy but no ever after.
I thought I loved the first one, but this one was even better! So many truths. I suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and it’s nice when someone explaining it gets it right.
I do really wish there was a good epilogue though. Now I feel cutoff at the end with a bunch of happy but no ever after.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews