Together they'll discover the perfect recipe for love.
Celebrity chef Matteo Gonzalez believes home is where your family is, which led him to settle in the Northwest. Life’s losses taught him to treasure those he loves, and his Abuelita’s passion for food gave him the foundation that he shaped into a successful career.
A year ago, Macy Hart’s life was turned upside down when her husband left her a Dear, Jane letter and little else. After losing everything, she is desperate, cynical, and can’t see past her regrets.
When the two meet unexpectedly in a coffee shop, things get hot (literally). Much to Macy’s horror, she leaves a lasting impression on both Matteo’s mind and clothing. Macy hopes she’ll never see the attractive stranger again, but fate has other ideas and—surprise—he’s the owner and head chef at El Corazón Borikén where she’s interviewing for the position of sous chef.
A firm believer in following his heart, Matteo hires Macy and makes it his mission to change how she sees the world—one recipe at a time.
Like sugar and salt tantalize in a dish, their opposing personalities spice things up in and out of the kitchen. Slowly, Macy allows herself to live again and Matteo finds a woman he can love. That is, until Macy’s soon-to-be ex-husband comes crashing back into town with big promises and small apologies.
Will the twists of life tear Matteo and Macy apart, or will the love they found while making mofongo bring them together under the mistletoe?
This novel contains mentions of parental loss and the loss of loved ones. It also includes divorce. Some people with certain convictions may consider it to contain cheating, but I did not intend that in my writing, as spousal abandonment happened before any subsequent relationship.
His meat and her sweets make the perfect holiday treat.
Rhett Roberts is out to prove his worth by building an empire of barbecue joints across the country. Fueled by his failure as a bull rider and the pain that still lingers years later, he is determined to earn his legacy with family recipes and Southern charm.
Through her blog, The Scarlett Letter, Scarlett Harrington works tirelessly to bring light to food sensitivities and make gluten-free options accessible to everyone. As a foodie with gluten intolerance, she is personally invested in her efforts.
When Scarlett is invited to try the new barbecue place in town and is assured there are safe menu options for her, she’s on board and even gives the hot head chef her number. A kitchen mishap leads to midnight regrets for Scarlett and business woes for Rhett.
Raised to be a gentleman, Rhett steps in to right the wrong and Scarlett falls into his arms—literally. With her help, he learns how to create a more inclusive menu and tries to salvage his reputation in a city known for its competitive food scene.
The pair falls fast, syncing in the kitchen and out. Life is sweet, but can Rhett and Scarlett make a relationship work when she’s happy in the Northwest and he plans to return to Texas