She’s a good girl trying to rebuild her restaurant.
He’s a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.
For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.
With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.
Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?
About The Author
My Review
This is a compelling workplace romance that blends heat, heart, and social commentary. At its core, it’s a story of opposites attracting: Jamilah, a sheltered and strait-laced restaurant owner, and Rashad, a reformed ex-con striving to build a legitimate life as a chef after serving multiple prison sentences. Rashad relocates to the Midwest to start fresh, while Jamilah’s restaurant faces mounting struggles, forcing her to hire him despite the tension of boss-employee dynamics and her father’s controlling interference.
Rashad is the standout character—determined, talented, and deeply passionate, both in the kitchen and through his love of rap. His perseverance and consistency not only drive the story forward but ultimately save Jamilah’s business, showcasing strong character growth. Jamilah, in contrast, often feels judgmental and entitled, with her development slower and less satisfying.
The romance is spicy, well-paced, and grounded in realistic challenges, while the supporting cast adds depth and texture. Beyond the love story, the novel thoughtfully explores redemption, societal biases, and the struggle of rebuilding a life after incarceration, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
My Rating
Link To Purchase
My Sanctuary 