Book Review: Chef’s Kiss by Jarret Melendez (Graphic Novel)

Goodreads Synopsis:

Now that college is over, English graduate Ben Cook is on the job hunt looking for something…anything…related to his passion for reading and writing. But interview after interview, hiring committee after hiring committee, Ben soon learns getting the dream job won’t be as easy as he thought. Proofreading? Journalism? Copywriting? Not enough experience. It turns out he doesn’t even have enough experience to be a garbage collector! But when Ben stumbles upon a “Now Hiring—No Experience Necessary” sign outside a restaurant, he jumps at the chance to land his first job. Plus, he can keep looking for a writing job in the meantime. He’s actually not so bad in the kitchen, but he will have to pass a series of cooking tests to prove he’s got the culinary skills to stay on full-time. But it’s only temporary…right? 

When Ben begins developing a crush on Liam, one of the other super dreamy chefs at the restaurant, and when he starts ditching his old college friends and his old writing job plans, his career path starts to become much less clear. 

My thoughts:

A cute and fun graphic novel with great rep!

The main character, Ben is a bit geeky and awkward but adorable!
He’s a relatable character, that has finished college and struggling to find a job after finishing his English degree. (Hits way too close to home haha)

The food aspect of this graphic novel was awesome! I felt genuinely hungry at times. I like the whole dynamic between Ben and the other chef’s. (Apart from the scary head chef)

There’s not only a bit of a slow burn romance (LGBT) but there’s a huge focus on friendships – which is nice to see! The romance actually isn’t a massive part of this, at least in my opinion. It takes a while for any romance to happen. It’s more about Ben learning about himself and where he wants to go in life; while dealing with pressures from family and juggling his friends and new friends.

Illustrations: GORGEOUS!
I love the art style here. It reminds me of older comic book and cartoons drawing style.

Overall, definitely worth picking it! Light fun read that does deal with some deeper topics. A well balanced story!

TW: Overbearing/controlling parents, unemployment stress, homophobia

Rating: 4 Stars

*ARC from Netgalley
Chef’s Kiss is out April 12th!

February Wrap Up | 2022

Happy March 1st!
Which is also St David’s Day here in Wales + It’s Pancake Day/Shrove Tuesday!

I started off the month well but then my reading went downhill…
I did manage to read 5 books though, which I’m happy with.

The Whole Picture by Alice Procter

I started off the month by finishing off my first non-fiction read. It took me a while to read but it was very interesting and eye-opening! I highly recommend anyone who loves museums and such to give this a read.
Rating: 4 Stars

*Sweethand by N.G. Peltier (audiobook)

After reading such a heavy book, I needed something light. This was on my Libro.fm as one of the gift ALCs. It was just what I needed! A fun romance between a baker and a music producer. Enemies to lovers trope, need I say more?
Rating: 3.5 Stars

Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe

I was then in the mood for romance. I picked this up the same day as finishing Sweethand and finished it in one go. I binged it in one sitting. It was too good! I NEED volume 2!!
Rating: 5 Stars

*Chef’s Kiss by Jarrett Melendez

Continuing the food theme apparently, I read this graphic novel which I had as an eARC from Netgalley. Another romance, this one is LGBT+ with an equal focus on friendship. It was a lovely read!
Rating: 4 Stars

*Dawnshard by Brandon Sanderson

Finally, I read another Netgalley ARC. I managed to just squeeze this into Feb, finished at like 9pm last night!
I am loving the Stormlight Archive and I loved seeing the side characters get their own little adventure! I’m so ready (but terrified) to pick up Rhythm of War!

What did you read in February? Any new faves?