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Starving for Southern #1
The Sweetness of Life
Shelby Leigh
I love food. I love everything about it.
My dream has always been to land a job with the Food Network channel, and I’ve spent years as a food critic, blogger, and chef, tasting my way across the South to develop recipes that are a twist on the classics and uniquely my own. When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes calling, I’m shocked to discover I’ve been paired with him, the worst blind date ever—bless his heart, and I’m determined not to let anyone get in my way. So, I buckle my designer heels, tighten my apron, and vow to myself there’s nothing in his playbook that’s going to stop me from tasting success.
Zach Wolff
I love wine. It is my life.
What I hate are critics. I hate everything about their dream-killing souls and elitist attitudes. So, when she shows up in the tasting room of my winery in northern Georgia, the devil in disguise wearing a pair of long legs and beautiful hazel eyes, I know just the plan to make and how to use her to get what I want. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her, because in the end, I will win. I always do.
Two weeks. His wine. Her recipes. A feature article in a special issue of a world-renowned magazine. Pairing wine with food is one thing, but two hearts is another.
I love food. I love everything about it.
My dream has always been to land a job with the Food Network channel, and I’ve spent years as a food critic, blogger, and chef, tasting my way across the South to develop recipes that are a twist on the classics and uniquely my own. When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes calling, I’m shocked to discover I’ve been paired with him, the worst blind date ever—bless his heart, and I’m determined not to let anyone get in my way. So, I buckle my designer heels, tighten my apron, and vow to myself there’s nothing in his playbook that’s going to stop me from tasting success.
Zach Wolff
I love wine. It is my life.
What I hate are critics. I hate everything about their dream-killing souls and elitist attitudes. So, when she shows up in the tasting room of my winery in northern Georgia, the devil in disguise wearing a pair of long legs and beautiful hazel eyes, I know just the plan to make and how to use her to get what I want. What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her, because in the end, I will win. I always do.
Two weeks. His wine. Her recipes. A feature article in a special issue of a world-renowned magazine. Pairing wine with food is one thing, but two hearts is another.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2017
225 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Andrews
19 books579 followersKathryn Andrews is a #1 Inspirational Romance Bestselling Author who loves stories that end with a happily ever after. She started writing at age seven and never stopped. Kathryn is known for Chasing Clouds, the Starving for Southern series, and her much loved Hale Brothers series. Her stories are sweet, southern, and fall into the genres of chi-lit, contemporary romance, sports romance, and southern fiction.
Kathryn graduated from the University of South Florida with degrees in Biology and Chemistry, and currently lives in Tampa, Florida. She spends her days as a sales director for a medical device company and her nights lost in her love of fictional characters.
When Kathryn is not crafting beautiful worlds that incorporate some of her most favorite real life places, she can be found hanging out with her husband and two young sons, while drinking iced coffee and enjoying the sun.
A note from the author...
Over ten years ago my husband and I were driving from Chicago to Tampa and somewhere in Kentucky I remember seeing a billboard that was all black with five white words, “I do, therefore I am!” I’m certain that it was a Nike ad, but for me I found this to be completely profound.
Take running for example. Most will say that a runner is someone who runs five days a week and runs under a ten minute mile pace. Well, I can tell you that I never run five days a week and on my best days my pace is an eleven minute mile. I have run quite a few half marathons and one full marathon. No matter what anyone says, I am a runner. I do, therefore I am.
I’ve taken this same thought and applied it to so many areas of my life: cooking, gardening, quilting, and yes…writing.
I may not be culinary trained, but I love to cook and my family and friends loves to eat my food. I cook, therefore I am a chef!
My thumb is not black. I love to grow herbs, tomatoes, roses, and lavender. I garden, therefore I am a gardener!
I love beautiful fabrics and I can follow a pattern. My triangles may not line up perfectly…but who cares, my quilts are still beautiful when they are finished. I quilt, therefore I am a quilter.
I have been writing my entire life. It is my husband who finally said, “Who cares if people like your books or not? If you enjoy writing them and you love your stories…then write them.” He has always been my biggest fan and he was right. Being a writer has always been my dream and what I said I wanted to be when I grew up.
So, I’ve told you who I am and what I love to do…now I’m going to tell you the why.
I have two boys that are three years a part. My husband and I want to instill in them adventure, courage, and passion. We don’t expect them to be perfect at things, we just want them to try and do. It’s not about winning the race, it’s about showing up in the first place. We don’t want them to be discouraged by society stereotypes, we want them to embrace who they are and what they love. After all, we only get one life.
In the end, they won’t care how many books I actually sell…all that matters to them is that I said I was going to do it, I did it, and I have loved every minute of it.
Find something that you love and tell yourself, “I do, therefore I am.”
Kathryn graduated from the University of South Florida with degrees in Biology and Chemistry, and currently lives in Tampa, Florida. She spends her days as a sales director for a medical device company and her nights lost in her love of fictional characters.
When Kathryn is not crafting beautiful worlds that incorporate some of her most favorite real life places, she can be found hanging out with her husband and two young sons, while drinking iced coffee and enjoying the sun.
A note from the author...
Over ten years ago my husband and I were driving from Chicago to Tampa and somewhere in Kentucky I remember seeing a billboard that was all black with five white words, “I do, therefore I am!” I’m certain that it was a Nike ad, but for me I found this to be completely profound.
Take running for example. Most will say that a runner is someone who runs five days a week and runs under a ten minute mile pace. Well, I can tell you that I never run five days a week and on my best days my pace is an eleven minute mile. I have run quite a few half marathons and one full marathon. No matter what anyone says, I am a runner. I do, therefore I am.
I’ve taken this same thought and applied it to so many areas of my life: cooking, gardening, quilting, and yes…writing.
I may not be culinary trained, but I love to cook and my family and friends loves to eat my food. I cook, therefore I am a chef!
My thumb is not black. I love to grow herbs, tomatoes, roses, and lavender. I garden, therefore I am a gardener!
I love beautiful fabrics and I can follow a pattern. My triangles may not line up perfectly…but who cares, my quilts are still beautiful when they are finished. I quilt, therefore I am a quilter.
I have been writing my entire life. It is my husband who finally said, “Who cares if people like your books or not? If you enjoy writing them and you love your stories…then write them.” He has always been my biggest fan and he was right. Being a writer has always been my dream and what I said I wanted to be when I grew up.
So, I’ve told you who I am and what I love to do…now I’m going to tell you the why.
I have two boys that are three years a part. My husband and I want to instill in them adventure, courage, and passion. We don’t expect them to be perfect at things, we just want them to try and do. It’s not about winning the race, it’s about showing up in the first place. We don’t want them to be discouraged by society stereotypes, we want them to embrace who they are and what they love. After all, we only get one life.
In the end, they won’t care how many books I actually sell…all that matters to them is that I said I was going to do it, I did it, and I have loved every minute of it.
Find something that you love and tell yourself, “I do, therefore I am.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
October 5, 2017
4,5
Que livro mais gostosinho de ler. Imagine passar duas 2 semanas em uma vinícola preparando os mais diferentes pratos para harmonizar os vinhos produzidos no local e tendo que conviver com o dono, alguém que meses atrás te tratou muito mal sem motivo aparente.... Zach e Shelby são inimigos declarados e terão que conviver ao longo da gravação de um programa gastronômico, tendo então a chance de resolver seus problemas ou piorá-los. 😍
Ao final de cada capítulo a autora colocou o link para muitas das receitas citadas ao longo da história. Terminei com vontade de beber vinho e experimentar mel de lavanda, rs
Que livro mais gostosinho de ler. Imagine passar duas 2 semanas em uma vinícola preparando os mais diferentes pratos para harmonizar os vinhos produzidos no local e tendo que conviver com o dono, alguém que meses atrás te tratou muito mal sem motivo aparente.... Zach e Shelby são inimigos declarados e terão que conviver ao longo da gravação de um programa gastronômico, tendo então a chance de resolver seus problemas ou piorá-los. 😍
Ao final de cada capítulo a autora colocou o link para muitas das receitas citadas ao longo da história. Terminei com vontade de beber vinho e experimentar mel de lavanda, rs
December 21, 2017
Probably one of the most predictable love stories, where I knew from the first page about how it will continue and end, but the author's style of writing is so beautiful and current, that you forget everything and just imagine the smell of vineyard and earth.
September 28, 2017
The Sweetness of Life is beautifully written and as charming as they come. I laughed, I swooned, and I drank a lot of wine. ;) I’ve been anxiously awaiting a new release from Kathryn Andrews and The Sweetness of Life did not disappoint. Charming and unique, it’s everything I want from a contemporary romance, with a touch of spice I wasn’t expecting. I'm ALWAYS all about a good enemies-to-lovers storyline, so all the moments where they were all up in each other's space growling but getting turned on, too? SIGN ME UP! <3 What I loved most about The Sweetness of Life was how every chapter had a recipe, how the theme of food, wine, and southern charm flowed through every page, adding more than just romance to this beautiful story. It was fresh and fun, and I adored every page!
September 25, 2017
Do you know that incredible feeling you get when start a new book and immediately know it’s going to be amazing? You know that magical feeling that takes ahold of you and your heart from the very first word and just lets you feel it all in the best and most memorable way? It’s that feeling that owns you, that makes you heart skip a beat or two, and that makes you know without a doubt that every word, every paragraph, and every moment of that book will give you it all and then some.
It’s that feeling that consumes you, enraptures you, and wows you within everything the author so phenomenally crafts and creates.
That is the feeling I live for when I start a new book. It is because of that feeling that I am a reader and a lover of the written word. And it was that unforgettable feeling that I felt through every word of The Sweetness of Life by Kathryn Andrews.
Now it is no secret that Kathryn Andrews is one of my all-time favorite authors. The way that she so perfectly weaves together stories with heart, feels, and such dynamic characters together is why her books have become some of my very favorites, and it is definitely why The Sweetness of Life will be added to that favorites list.
This book completely wowed me from start to finish. It made me laugh out loud, it made me feel, and it made me love these characters with all I had as they went from enemies to something more than either of them bargained for. Told through Kathryn Andrew’s exceptional writing, this story magically weaves together a beautiful story of food, wine, enemies, lovers, and the perfect pairing between all of that and more.
From the very first word until the very last, through every turn of the page, and through every moment I so vividly experienced in this book, I swooned, I melted, I craved some of the delicious food and wine being served up, I felt everything and I loved every bit of what Shelby and Zach shared together.
The Sweetness of Life is an enemies to lovers romance that follows Zach and Shelby as they go from the worst blind date ever, to being thrust upon each other for work, to feeling much more for each other than they ever expected. This story allows you to see how these two have come to have such strong feelings of disdain for one another, and shows you the unforgettable moments that ensue when they must work together for a combined project. They want nothing to do with each other, but they both need this job to work for different reasons, so they each come up with a plan to make it work. The deeper they get into the project and the more time they spend together, the more they start to feel a fire and connection that no amount of wine or water could quench. Soon these two find themselves feeling a whole heck of a lot that they were not prepared for and that suddenly turns their worlds, their dreams, and their feelings upside down. Through every word and every moment with Zach and Shelby those two will keep you and your heart on its toes, and will have you loving every single moment you get with them.
What I loved about Zach and Shelby was that they were both strong characters. They both had strong personalities, strong minds and hearts, and they weren’t afraid to say exactly what they felt and to push each other’s buttons. That led to the best amount of banter and push and pull and a build of tension that was gloriously intense. Zach and Shelby are headstrong and proud of it, and I LOVED getting to be right in the middle of the two of them. I had so much respect and love for both of them, and what I loved especially was how Kathryn Andrews so seamlessly balanced showing their strength along with their vulnerability. She let you see their highs and lows and everything in between, you got them at their best and in moments they felt beyond exposes, and through it all she let you see their genuinely good hearts that made them who they were. It was that balance that made me love these characters with all that I had.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was getting to experience the drive and fight Zach and Shelby had for their pie in the sky ideas. Those two wanted the best. They wanted their dreams to come true, and their passionate little hearts would do whatever it took to get there. I loved the tenacity they both had for their big ideas and dreams, and it was that passion and fight that added another dynamic layer to this story and their characters. While these two may have not wanted to work together at the start, the more you get with them both as they race towards those dreams of theirs will have you loving them more, and loving how those dreams of theirs interact and start to weave together. Getting to experience two real, authentic, and enjoyable characters with some serious heart and drive was the absolute best. I can’t say enough how much their fight and passion and fire for their dreams inspired me along the way, and it truly showed so much about them both.
The setting of this story was almost a character in and of itself, and I pretty much just want to live on a north Georgia winery from now on. Like for reals. The way Kathryn Andrews once again creates a place that is so real, so vivid, and so breathtakingly beautiful will sweep you off your feet, and will have you loving every moment you get to be in that place. The setting of this book became a place where real magic and feeling and connection took place. Wolff Winery is a place that I loved getting to picture and experience. It was a place I never wanted to leave, and it was a place where I got to experience every part of Zach and Shelby’s relationship. While the book does have other locations, it was this magical place that truly made this book and felt so special, so trust me when I tell you that every bit of it you get will wow you in every way.
Though Zach and Shelby start off hating each other’s guts, there is definitely a fire and connection between them that builds and builds through every moment they share. It is that fire and connection that makes this book what it is, that draws you in craving more, and that will have you on the edge of your seat through every page waiting to see what will happen between them. The way that Kathryn Andrews so tangibly creates that tension between them, that fire that ignites so gloriously, and that connection that keeps pulling them closer and closer, no matter how much they might try to fight against it. I loved that I felt everything these two shared so fiercely through every page of this story, and that pulled me into everything more and invested me in everything I was reading because I was living and experiencing it too. That connection and fire gave me it all with Zach and Shelby, and had me knowing that there can be a fine line between love and hate and all of the feelings that go with it. With a healthy dose of the best southern charm thrown in for good measure, this book and these characters certainly deliver a connection and banter that you will love to pieces.
The Sweetness of Life not only gave me a story of two complete opposites seeing what could be after they are forced together, it gave me a story of beautiful meaning and feeling that I won’t soon forget. Kathryn Andrews does the most exceptional job of weaving that meaning and heart and feeling through every page of this book in a way that truly melts your heart and shows you so much with these two. Through this book she shows you the true sweetness of life, the true southern charm, and what can really happen when two people start feeling some very real feelings. It is all of that and more that makes this book the exceptional thing that it is, and that will have you loving and basking in every moment you get with Zach and Shelby along the way as you discover what it truly means to have the sweetness of life and love.
This book is a gem that gave me it all. It had the dynamic characters with some unforgettable personalities, it had the feels and fire and heart to keep me consumed in it all, and it had a story that just wouldn’t quit from start to finish. This story kept me consumed through every word, and it gave me Zach and Shelby. It gave me their fire, their dreams, their fight and hopes, it gave me them through their struggles, through their hate, and through those moments when it all started to change into something more than either of them expected.
The Sweetness of Life gave me their journey of dreams, heart, and discovering who they really are and who they want to be. Through every word they owned me, my heart, and all of my emotions as they tried to figure out what in the world they were sharing, and where in the world it was going. This story definitely puts the two of them to the test, but I am telling you, you will love every second you get to spend with them as they figure it all out.
You will laugh with them, feel it all with them, you will fall in love with them so truly, and in the end you will love getting to experience every amazing word of their unforgettable and all-feeling story.
Kathryn Andrews has wowed me once again with this book, and I can’t recommend it enough. It is bursting with a fire and connection that will ignite you, a charm that will ease you, a sense of heart and drive that will push you, and a sweetness that in the end will move you again and again.
I can’t recommend this book and these characters enough, so do yourself a solid and grab yourself a slice of pie and a glass of wine, sit yourself at the table with this book, and get ready for The Sweetness of Life to give you it all. And then some.
It’s that feeling that consumes you, enraptures you, and wows you within everything the author so phenomenally crafts and creates.
That is the feeling I live for when I start a new book. It is because of that feeling that I am a reader and a lover of the written word. And it was that unforgettable feeling that I felt through every word of The Sweetness of Life by Kathryn Andrews.
Now it is no secret that Kathryn Andrews is one of my all-time favorite authors. The way that she so perfectly weaves together stories with heart, feels, and such dynamic characters together is why her books have become some of my very favorites, and it is definitely why The Sweetness of Life will be added to that favorites list.
This book completely wowed me from start to finish. It made me laugh out loud, it made me feel, and it made me love these characters with all I had as they went from enemies to something more than either of them bargained for. Told through Kathryn Andrew’s exceptional writing, this story magically weaves together a beautiful story of food, wine, enemies, lovers, and the perfect pairing between all of that and more.
From the very first word until the very last, through every turn of the page, and through every moment I so vividly experienced in this book, I swooned, I melted, I craved some of the delicious food and wine being served up, I felt everything and I loved every bit of what Shelby and Zach shared together.
The Sweetness of Life is an enemies to lovers romance that follows Zach and Shelby as they go from the worst blind date ever, to being thrust upon each other for work, to feeling much more for each other than they ever expected. This story allows you to see how these two have come to have such strong feelings of disdain for one another, and shows you the unforgettable moments that ensue when they must work together for a combined project. They want nothing to do with each other, but they both need this job to work for different reasons, so they each come up with a plan to make it work. The deeper they get into the project and the more time they spend together, the more they start to feel a fire and connection that no amount of wine or water could quench. Soon these two find themselves feeling a whole heck of a lot that they were not prepared for and that suddenly turns their worlds, their dreams, and their feelings upside down. Through every word and every moment with Zach and Shelby those two will keep you and your heart on its toes, and will have you loving every single moment you get with them.
What I loved about Zach and Shelby was that they were both strong characters. They both had strong personalities, strong minds and hearts, and they weren’t afraid to say exactly what they felt and to push each other’s buttons. That led to the best amount of banter and push and pull and a build of tension that was gloriously intense. Zach and Shelby are headstrong and proud of it, and I LOVED getting to be right in the middle of the two of them. I had so much respect and love for both of them, and what I loved especially was how Kathryn Andrews so seamlessly balanced showing their strength along with their vulnerability. She let you see their highs and lows and everything in between, you got them at their best and in moments they felt beyond exposes, and through it all she let you see their genuinely good hearts that made them who they were. It was that balance that made me love these characters with all that I had.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was getting to experience the drive and fight Zach and Shelby had for their pie in the sky ideas. Those two wanted the best. They wanted their dreams to come true, and their passionate little hearts would do whatever it took to get there. I loved the tenacity they both had for their big ideas and dreams, and it was that passion and fight that added another dynamic layer to this story and their characters. While these two may have not wanted to work together at the start, the more you get with them both as they race towards those dreams of theirs will have you loving them more, and loving how those dreams of theirs interact and start to weave together. Getting to experience two real, authentic, and enjoyable characters with some serious heart and drive was the absolute best. I can’t say enough how much their fight and passion and fire for their dreams inspired me along the way, and it truly showed so much about them both.
The setting of this story was almost a character in and of itself, and I pretty much just want to live on a north Georgia winery from now on. Like for reals. The way Kathryn Andrews once again creates a place that is so real, so vivid, and so breathtakingly beautiful will sweep you off your feet, and will have you loving every moment you get to be in that place. The setting of this book became a place where real magic and feeling and connection took place. Wolff Winery is a place that I loved getting to picture and experience. It was a place I never wanted to leave, and it was a place where I got to experience every part of Zach and Shelby’s relationship. While the book does have other locations, it was this magical place that truly made this book and felt so special, so trust me when I tell you that every bit of it you get will wow you in every way.
Though Zach and Shelby start off hating each other’s guts, there is definitely a fire and connection between them that builds and builds through every moment they share. It is that fire and connection that makes this book what it is, that draws you in craving more, and that will have you on the edge of your seat through every page waiting to see what will happen between them. The way that Kathryn Andrews so tangibly creates that tension between them, that fire that ignites so gloriously, and that connection that keeps pulling them closer and closer, no matter how much they might try to fight against it. I loved that I felt everything these two shared so fiercely through every page of this story, and that pulled me into everything more and invested me in everything I was reading because I was living and experiencing it too. That connection and fire gave me it all with Zach and Shelby, and had me knowing that there can be a fine line between love and hate and all of the feelings that go with it. With a healthy dose of the best southern charm thrown in for good measure, this book and these characters certainly deliver a connection and banter that you will love to pieces.
The Sweetness of Life not only gave me a story of two complete opposites seeing what could be after they are forced together, it gave me a story of beautiful meaning and feeling that I won’t soon forget. Kathryn Andrews does the most exceptional job of weaving that meaning and heart and feeling through every page of this book in a way that truly melts your heart and shows you so much with these two. Through this book she shows you the true sweetness of life, the true southern charm, and what can really happen when two people start feeling some very real feelings. It is all of that and more that makes this book the exceptional thing that it is, and that will have you loving and basking in every moment you get with Zach and Shelby along the way as you discover what it truly means to have the sweetness of life and love.
This book is a gem that gave me it all. It had the dynamic characters with some unforgettable personalities, it had the feels and fire and heart to keep me consumed in it all, and it had a story that just wouldn’t quit from start to finish. This story kept me consumed through every word, and it gave me Zach and Shelby. It gave me their fire, their dreams, their fight and hopes, it gave me them through their struggles, through their hate, and through those moments when it all started to change into something more than either of them expected.
The Sweetness of Life gave me their journey of dreams, heart, and discovering who they really are and who they want to be. Through every word they owned me, my heart, and all of my emotions as they tried to figure out what in the world they were sharing, and where in the world it was going. This story definitely puts the two of them to the test, but I am telling you, you will love every second you get to spend with them as they figure it all out.
You will laugh with them, feel it all with them, you will fall in love with them so truly, and in the end you will love getting to experience every amazing word of their unforgettable and all-feeling story.
Kathryn Andrews has wowed me once again with this book, and I can’t recommend it enough. It is bursting with a fire and connection that will ignite you, a charm that will ease you, a sense of heart and drive that will push you, and a sweetness that in the end will move you again and again.
I can’t recommend this book and these characters enough, so do yourself a solid and grab yourself a slice of pie and a glass of wine, sit yourself at the table with this book, and get ready for The Sweetness of Life to give you it all. And then some.
September 28, 2017
3.5 stars!
There is nothing I enjoy more than good foods, friends, and a delicious glass of wine. Except for a book about good food, friends, and delicious wine. Throw in a bit of romance and I was instantly hooked!
Shelby is a small town chef and food blogger with big dreams. Hoping to further her career with The Food Network, she finds herself working with ex NFL star Zach Wolff. Now a successful wine maker, Zach is hoping a strong review from Shelby can combat the negativity his winery received from a less than impressed food critic months ago.
However, a bad blind date between the wine maker and hostess to be months before has left them both feeling like sour grapes. Needless to say, their first few interactions were anything but pleasant! But has the week progresseses, both parties begin to question their feelings for each other making for an enticing romantic romp through the grape vines!
This was my first book by Kathryn Andrews and I really enjoyed the change of pace her writing offered. I read a lot of intense, steamy romances full of angst and disgruntled characters. The lightness of Andrews writing was a nice departure from the norm.
I really liked the female lead, Shelby. She was super sweet, and ambitious. She was a hard worker, and despite her troubled past, had pushed herself to great success. However, as much as I loved Shelby, I hated Zach! He was so stubborn and arrogant, and basically acted like an ass the entire time!! I had a really hard time getting past his attitude to really enjoy the book. His behavior left a pretty bitter taste in my mouth.
I’d love to give another Kathryn Andrews a try considering I did really enjoy her writing and the story I’m sure with a different male hero, I’d fall in love with the book!
There is nothing I enjoy more than good foods, friends, and a delicious glass of wine. Except for a book about good food, friends, and delicious wine. Throw in a bit of romance and I was instantly hooked!
Shelby is a small town chef and food blogger with big dreams. Hoping to further her career with The Food Network, she finds herself working with ex NFL star Zach Wolff. Now a successful wine maker, Zach is hoping a strong review from Shelby can combat the negativity his winery received from a less than impressed food critic months ago.
However, a bad blind date between the wine maker and hostess to be months before has left them both feeling like sour grapes. Needless to say, their first few interactions were anything but pleasant! But has the week progresseses, both parties begin to question their feelings for each other making for an enticing romantic romp through the grape vines!
This was my first book by Kathryn Andrews and I really enjoyed the change of pace her writing offered. I read a lot of intense, steamy romances full of angst and disgruntled characters. The lightness of Andrews writing was a nice departure from the norm.
I really liked the female lead, Shelby. She was super sweet, and ambitious. She was a hard worker, and despite her troubled past, had pushed herself to great success. However, as much as I loved Shelby, I hated Zach! He was so stubborn and arrogant, and basically acted like an ass the entire time!! I had a really hard time getting past his attitude to really enjoy the book. His behavior left a pretty bitter taste in my mouth.
I’d love to give another Kathryn Andrews a try considering I did really enjoy her writing and the story I’m sure with a different male hero, I’d fall in love with the book!
September 28, 2017
OMG! I read a beta copy of this book and I am absolutely in love with the story setting and characters and has the essence of chic-lit and the recipes in this story will make you want to cook everything they are making and eat it all! And to add to that I just saw the cover of the book and it is so beautiful!
I really can't wait to read the final copy of this book.
The Sweetness of Life is now live! A new review will be posted after I am finished with the published copy. :-)
4.5 Stars!
★ Buy The Sweetness of Life (Kindle)
★ Buy The Sweetness of Life (Paperback)
_________________________
For more reviews and recommendations:
✦ Facebook Page
✦ Main Blog
✦ Twitter
I really can't wait to read the final copy of this book.
The Sweetness of Life is now live! A new review will be posted after I am finished with the published copy. :-)
4.5 Stars!
★ Buy The Sweetness of Life (Kindle)
★ Buy The Sweetness of Life (Paperback)
_________________________
For more reviews and recommendations:
✦ Facebook Page
✦ Main Blog
September 27, 2017
5 stars of amazingness!
I have been so excited for a new book from Kathryn Andrews and boy was the wait worth it! The Sweetness of Life was a brilliant enemies to lovers story with all the southern flair. The turbulent push and pull between Shelby and Zach made me turn page after page. I loved the characters, the exquisite descriptions of scenery, and all the food and wine. This story broke the stereotypical love stories we’ve all read and up until the very end, I wasn’t sure how their story would play out. Adding in a bit of angst, this book delivered the feels. I strongly recommend The Sweetness of Life to anyone wanting to disappear into a great book!
I have been so excited for a new book from Kathryn Andrews and boy was the wait worth it! The Sweetness of Life was a brilliant enemies to lovers story with all the southern flair. The turbulent push and pull between Shelby and Zach made me turn page after page. I loved the characters, the exquisite descriptions of scenery, and all the food and wine. This story broke the stereotypical love stories we’ve all read and up until the very end, I wasn’t sure how their story would play out. Adding in a bit of angst, this book delivered the feels. I strongly recommend The Sweetness of Life to anyone wanting to disappear into a great book!
September 18, 2017
The Sweetness of Life is utterly delicious in every sense of the word, and is a love story that will no doubt leave you thirsty for more.
As with all Kathryn Andrews novels, once you pick this one up, you'll be hard pressed to put it down until it's been completely devoured.
Not only is the writing beautiful, but the recipes that have been wound thoughtfully through the book are equally as fabulous. This is so much more than your average romance novel, and I dare you not to fall for it.
As with all Kathryn Andrews novels, once you pick this one up, you'll be hard pressed to put it down until it's been completely devoured.
Not only is the writing beautiful, but the recipes that have been wound thoughtfully through the book are equally as fabulous. This is so much more than your average romance novel, and I dare you not to fall for it.
September 10, 2017
5 Stars!!!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Their distaste for each other is mutual. Two weeks is all they need to survive; two weeks can change everything.
Where do I begin with this story...? I literally loved every page. From start to finish I was enthralled into Shelby and Zach's story. Kathryn Andrews has delivered an excellent story, written both beautifully, and captivating. She has this magical way with words that has your heart so full of love, and admiration, it almost feels like it could burst at any moment.
Shelby is adorable; she's talented, creative, honest, determined, and has a strength so strong, it's hard to take down her walls. I loved her bubbly, and confident personality, how happy, carefree, and friendly she was. The friendships she had with Meg and Lexi were wonderful, they were loyal, and supportive to each other, ready to give the other a push in the right direction if needed.
Zach is an enigma, I wanted so desperately to understand him, and discover why he had the views he had; when at the same time I felt I should be wanting to crawl into my kindle and slap him for being so rude, and horrid towards Shelby. He had this underlying charm about him, he was arrogant towards Shelby, and yet to everyone else he was this sweet, caring, troubled man, that I so desperately wanted to hug.
The way that Kathryn Andrew’s described each finer detail had me living every taste right along with Shelby. I could also picture the beautiful places Shelby described. I would love to experience the things Shelby did, and cook as amazingly as she does. I will definitely have to check out the recipes suggested at the end of each chapter, what a wonderful idea to add to a book. If it wasn’t for me needing to devour this story, I’d have checked out each recipe as I read.
This story is for ALL contemporary romance readers. You won’t regret buying this book!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Their distaste for each other is mutual. Two weeks is all they need to survive; two weeks can change everything.
Where do I begin with this story...? I literally loved every page. From start to finish I was enthralled into Shelby and Zach's story. Kathryn Andrews has delivered an excellent story, written both beautifully, and captivating. She has this magical way with words that has your heart so full of love, and admiration, it almost feels like it could burst at any moment.
Shelby is adorable; she's talented, creative, honest, determined, and has a strength so strong, it's hard to take down her walls. I loved her bubbly, and confident personality, how happy, carefree, and friendly she was. The friendships she had with Meg and Lexi were wonderful, they were loyal, and supportive to each other, ready to give the other a push in the right direction if needed.
Zach is an enigma, I wanted so desperately to understand him, and discover why he had the views he had; when at the same time I felt I should be wanting to crawl into my kindle and slap him for being so rude, and horrid towards Shelby. He had this underlying charm about him, he was arrogant towards Shelby, and yet to everyone else he was this sweet, caring, troubled man, that I so desperately wanted to hug.
The way that Kathryn Andrew’s described each finer detail had me living every taste right along with Shelby. I could also picture the beautiful places Shelby described. I would love to experience the things Shelby did, and cook as amazingly as she does. I will definitely have to check out the recipes suggested at the end of each chapter, what a wonderful idea to add to a book. If it wasn’t for me needing to devour this story, I’d have checked out each recipe as I read.
This story is for ALL contemporary romance readers. You won’t regret buying this book!
September 29, 2017
This was my very first Kathryn Andrews book and it was absolutely amazing. This most certainly won't be my last and I look forward to meeting her in NYC for a signing.
I am not going to lie...that I clicked all the recipe links at the end of each chapter and I totally want to try a few of them out. Each recipe corresponds with something in the chapter that makes you feel like you are part of the story.
This enemies to lovers romance is one that will stick with me for awhile.
From the moment you get to meet the main character in this book I just loved her...dedicated, fun and full of sass. Shelby and her best friend own a restaurant in Charleston and she freelances writing articles and journaling a food blog in hopes to reach her dream job of working for the food network. And when an amazing assignment comes up where she is asked to go to a vineyard and write an article as well as pair food with their wines she finds herself face to face with they jerk that one of her friends set her up with...Zach Wolfe, owner of Wolfe Vineyards.
These two have the this hate/hate relationship from the very beginning of her stay. Between his mood swings and being hot & cold Shelby finds herself constantly questioning what she ever did to him to make him so mean to her. The angst in this book builds to what can only be described as the perfect crescendo. Then armed with a plan, Zach decides that he should try to be civil in the name of Wolfe Vineyards and he finds himself completely thrown off balance by Shelby....that is when things start to change and the dynamic between these two. But of course their are secrets, motives and hearts on the line...you will just have to download this book to find out how things fall apart and can they be put back together?
Don't miss out on this book.
I am not going to lie...that I clicked all the recipe links at the end of each chapter and I totally want to try a few of them out. Each recipe corresponds with something in the chapter that makes you feel like you are part of the story.
This enemies to lovers romance is one that will stick with me for awhile.
From the moment you get to meet the main character in this book I just loved her...dedicated, fun and full of sass. Shelby and her best friend own a restaurant in Charleston and she freelances writing articles and journaling a food blog in hopes to reach her dream job of working for the food network. And when an amazing assignment comes up where she is asked to go to a vineyard and write an article as well as pair food with their wines she finds herself face to face with they jerk that one of her friends set her up with...Zach Wolfe, owner of Wolfe Vineyards.
These two have the this hate/hate relationship from the very beginning of her stay. Between his mood swings and being hot & cold Shelby finds herself constantly questioning what she ever did to him to make him so mean to her. The angst in this book builds to what can only be described as the perfect crescendo. Then armed with a plan, Zach decides that he should try to be civil in the name of Wolfe Vineyards and he finds himself completely thrown off balance by Shelby....that is when things start to change and the dynamic between these two. But of course their are secrets, motives and hearts on the line...you will just have to download this book to find out how things fall apart and can they be put back together?
Don't miss out on this book.
September 28, 2017
This was my first book by Kathryn Andrews and it was such a DELIGHT! Setting the scene at a gorgeous, welcoming vineyard, I was immediately captivated by the images painted by Kathryn. The family owned vineyard created a stage for a hate-to-love you romantic tale.
Shelby is a well known chef and anonymous blogger in Southern Georgia. She loves her food, passion for happiness, and her family of friends. I loved her character; her sense of joy-de-vivre was contagious. Her nuances made her absolutely adorable and relatable. This was the fabulous girl next door, who became a success in her own circle.
Zach, our former football hero, is delicious with his southern charm, panty-melting smile, and family values. He was really sweet once he let his guard down, and tried to be a genuine good person. His good naturedness really drew me to him, but he's definitely an inside-his-head kind of thinker.
By setting the book surrounded by the beauty of the vineyard, the story is softened and more romantic. The background allows the food and wine to embrace the heat simmering between Shelby + Zach. This is classic chic-lit romance at it's best. I was transported and in awe of the warmth, charm and magnetism of their love story. I really loved every page, and can't wait to ready more by Kathryn Andrews.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
Shelby is a well known chef and anonymous blogger in Southern Georgia. She loves her food, passion for happiness, and her family of friends. I loved her character; her sense of joy-de-vivre was contagious. Her nuances made her absolutely adorable and relatable. This was the fabulous girl next door, who became a success in her own circle.
Zach, our former football hero, is delicious with his southern charm, panty-melting smile, and family values. He was really sweet once he let his guard down, and tried to be a genuine good person. His good naturedness really drew me to him, but he's definitely an inside-his-head kind of thinker.
By setting the book surrounded by the beauty of the vineyard, the story is softened and more romantic. The background allows the food and wine to embrace the heat simmering between Shelby + Zach. This is classic chic-lit romance at it's best. I was transported and in awe of the warmth, charm and magnetism of their love story. I really loved every page, and can't wait to ready more by Kathryn Andrews.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
September 24, 2017
This is my first book of Kathryn Andrews and definitely not my last. This book is not your average love story and it would leave any romance craving critic wanting more.
This book was beautifully written with mouthwatering recipes leaving the reader to devour them. The characters were perfection; Shelby’s determination and strength versus Zach's arrogant and troublesome personality is what makes these two polar opposites; the perfect recipe for sweetness.
Kathryn did a remarkable job with this story. The pull from the beginning kept me invested until the end. The emotional pull and constant tug of war is what loves all about and in this book it was brilliantly crafted.
The recipes that were given and the description of places that Shelby describes, gives your taste buds are workout and your imagination wanting to be beamed up into this beautiful story. I absolutely loved how the author left the recipes in here for everyone to try out; a very clever idea.
This book is a contemporary romance book and would definitely recommend it to anyone
This book was beautifully written with mouthwatering recipes leaving the reader to devour them. The characters were perfection; Shelby’s determination and strength versus Zach's arrogant and troublesome personality is what makes these two polar opposites; the perfect recipe for sweetness.
Kathryn did a remarkable job with this story. The pull from the beginning kept me invested until the end. The emotional pull and constant tug of war is what loves all about and in this book it was brilliantly crafted.
The recipes that were given and the description of places that Shelby describes, gives your taste buds are workout and your imagination wanting to be beamed up into this beautiful story. I absolutely loved how the author left the recipes in here for everyone to try out; a very clever idea.
This book is a contemporary romance book and would definitely recommend it to anyone
September 27, 2017
I love this author's writing style. Delicate, yet emotive. And this book is a beautiful example of that.
I enjoyed the unfolding of the relationship between Shelby and Zach. And although you may have been able to see what was coming, that is completely irrelevant to the enjoyment of the story.
The character development, the story arc and the strength of the writing all combine to make this a wonderful literary escape.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I enjoyed the unfolding of the relationship between Shelby and Zach. And although you may have been able to see what was coming, that is completely irrelevant to the enjoyment of the story.
The character development, the story arc and the strength of the writing all combine to make this a wonderful literary escape.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
September 27, 2017
What a wonderfully sweet and tempting read. I loved this book so much that I swear I want to read it again. I loved the well written story line, the feelings that ran the gambit between the two lead characters, the angst and sexual tension. The characters are well written and very well defined and so extremely likable that you really want this book, this story to play out to through the rest of their lives. Zach, the ex-football player now winery owner is hot, successful, sweet, considerate....except towards Shelby. Well she did find him hot, but the only thing that he shows her is hatred, contempt and extreme rudeness. Shelby is beautiful, smart, a successful food blogger as well as a wonderful chef and partner in a successful restaurant. They meet at an event, being set up as each other's blind date, but something overheard sets Zach's nerves on edge and his rudenss on full display towards Shelby.
What happens next is not only flustering to the both of them, but total romantic enjoyment to the reader. Take a tour through the vineyards with Shelby and Zach as the prepare an article for the Food Magazine and watch the sparks fly back and forth as they hot tempered banter begins. Watch these two fight their way straight into love.
This is a wonderfully romantic read that will leave you with all the emotional feelings to go with it. I highly recommend it.
What happens next is not only flustering to the both of them, but total romantic enjoyment to the reader. Take a tour through the vineyards with Shelby and Zach as the prepare an article for the Food Magazine and watch the sparks fly back and forth as they hot tempered banter begins. Watch these two fight their way straight into love.
This is a wonderfully romantic read that will leave you with all the emotional feelings to go with it. I highly recommend it.
September 29, 2017
I've really enjoyed Kathryn Andrew's writing in the past and I definitely don't feel any differently when it comes to The Sweetness of Life. Overall, I thought this was a fun read. I was instantly drawn into the story from the very beginning. I especially loved how Kathryn included recipes that were related to each chapter. The animosity is strong from day one with Zach and Shelby. I hated that Zach didn't really seem to give Shelby a chance based on what he assumed about her from catching only part of a conversation. He instantly hated her instead of getting the facts from her. I admire Shelby for the way she handled things with Zach. She was in a peculiar situation considering she didnt really know why he was so angry with her. I loved her southern roots and I admit I'm a little biased since I'm from Charleston as well. I thought the writing was great and the story flowed very well. The Sweetness of Life is humorous, engaging and I really enjoyed the characters even when they were a little frustrating. Kathryn Andrews did an great job with this one.
December 26, 2017
4.5 stars!!! I adore Kathryn Andrew's writing, she either decimates me with her emotional reads or has me full of the warm and fuzzies with her romance and of course both. The Sweetness of Life was one of those love/hate relationships. Set in a vineyard, the ambience and setting was captured perfectly and when a chef and food critic is recruited to do a piece on the vineyeard the owner is not impressed having already been the victim (incorrectly so) to the damage they can cause.
I loved the progression of the characters from enemies, to friends to more and as ever Kathryn Andrews delivered a cute romance, that will have you smiling from ear to ear. I loved the dialogue, their interactions and the overcoming of their fears and insecurities. The receipes throughout this book had me salivating and I have made notes to make some of them myself.
I loved the progression of the characters from enemies, to friends to more and as ever Kathryn Andrews delivered a cute romance, that will have you smiling from ear to ear. I loved the dialogue, their interactions and the overcoming of their fears and insecurities. The receipes throughout this book had me salivating and I have made notes to make some of them myself.
"Hearts speak to hearts, regardless of what comes out of the mouth."
September 27, 2017
What a fun read that reminds us to not judge people or have preconceived notions about another because you could lose that once chance to find your true love.
Shelby is a chef and blooger who is offered the opportunity to work with a regional winery to pair her southern food to their wines. Zach is the owner of Wolff Winery and is looking for the exposure to the winery. From a previous encounter Shelby and Zach had met previously and it wasn't a good memory for either of them. From there on out Shelby and Zach were like oil and water, with sparks thrown in. Can they outlast thier dislike of each other to complete the assignment? You will have to read to find out.
I learned a fair bit about winemaking and there are fun recipes at the end of every chapter, like a novel cookbook. I hope there will be more stories, Kyle and Michelle, Mia and Jack? The characters and the story are completely relatable.
Shelby is a chef and blooger who is offered the opportunity to work with a regional winery to pair her southern food to their wines. Zach is the owner of Wolff Winery and is looking for the exposure to the winery. From a previous encounter Shelby and Zach had met previously and it wasn't a good memory for either of them. From there on out Shelby and Zach were like oil and water, with sparks thrown in. Can they outlast thier dislike of each other to complete the assignment? You will have to read to find out.
I learned a fair bit about winemaking and there are fun recipes at the end of every chapter, like a novel cookbook. I hope there will be more stories, Kyle and Michelle, Mia and Jack? The characters and the story are completely relatable.
September 27, 2017
The Sweetness Of Life is an adorably sweet enemies-to-lovers story. Zack and Shelby didn't exactly hit it off when they were set up on a blind date, and now, months later, they are paired together for a special magazine article she'll be writing about his family's vineyard. Will they be able to set aside their differences and distaste for one another in order to get the job done?
At times, I thought that Zack was being unnecessarily jerky and not giving Shelby a fair chance because she didn't have anything to do with his prior bad luck with a food blogger. I wish she would have given him a harder time about the game he was playing with her and make him grovel a bit more to win her back. But the overall story was well-developed, the main characters and supporting players were likable, and I loved the coordinating Southern recipes that accompanied the chapters!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
At times, I thought that Zack was being unnecessarily jerky and not giving Shelby a fair chance because she didn't have anything to do with his prior bad luck with a food blogger. I wish she would have given him a harder time about the game he was playing with her and make him grovel a bit more to win her back. But the overall story was well-developed, the main characters and supporting players were likable, and I loved the coordinating Southern recipes that accompanied the chapters!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
September 17, 2017
Shelby and Zach story of twenty emotional dimension of perfection. I was invested and dragged the story on so I wouldn't be at the end. I loved the emotional struggle, misunderstanding, growth, and support from beginning to end. This was a romance, Kathryn started it truly from beginning to end. Ups and downs, back and forth, confusion and happiness. The journey, the adventure, and the trust.... PERFECTION.
If you have ever read a previously written novel by Kathryn you would totally understand that NOTHING is left unsaid or to your imagination. The story is from start to finish, each word, sentence, paragraph, and chapter has a purpose. The purpose of ensuring you fall in love just like the main characters. In this story you couldn't not like Shelby and Zach, eithe r together or apart. They were just it. Two pieces to one whole of Sweetness.... Lavender that is....
If you have ever read a previously written novel by Kathryn you would totally understand that NOTHING is left unsaid or to your imagination. The story is from start to finish, each word, sentence, paragraph, and chapter has a purpose. The purpose of ensuring you fall in love just like the main characters. In this story you couldn't not like Shelby and Zach, eithe r together or apart. They were just it. Two pieces to one whole of Sweetness.... Lavender that is....
September 28, 2017
5 Crazy Ass Must Read Stars!!!!!
I just love Kathryn Andrews' books. She has this way of writing characters and storylines that just completely immerse you into that world. The feelings, the connections, the recipes (gah, those recipes, I want to try them all) and the depth of it all just makes for great read or what I like to call "A Great Escape".
The Sweetness of Life had me hooked right from the start. Kathryn took the overdone sub-genre of Enemies to Lovers and made it her own. It was refreshing.
The dynamic between Shelby and Zach was captivating. I just had to know what their two weeks would do them. You could feel everything between through the pages.
This book has left me with the best feeling and I have to say is my favorite by Kathryn Andrews to date. I will definitely be on the lookout for more by her.
I just love Kathryn Andrews' books. She has this way of writing characters and storylines that just completely immerse you into that world. The feelings, the connections, the recipes (gah, those recipes, I want to try them all) and the depth of it all just makes for great read or what I like to call "A Great Escape".
The Sweetness of Life had me hooked right from the start. Kathryn took the overdone sub-genre of Enemies to Lovers and made it her own. It was refreshing.
The dynamic between Shelby and Zach was captivating. I just had to know what their two weeks would do them. You could feel everything between through the pages.
This book has left me with the best feeling and I have to say is my favorite by Kathryn Andrews to date. I will definitely be on the lookout for more by her.
May 6, 2023
I was lucky enough to win an advance copy of this book.. I'm so excited that I did! I'm a big fan of this author and was counting down the days until it's release..
Shelby and Zach started out on the wrong foot due to a huge miss understand. I'm gonna be honest I didn't like Zach at first but he grew on me.. I loved the fact that Shelby had a back bone and stood up for herself. As the story unfolds you end up falling in love and rooting for them. The story is a perfect mix of humor and tension, with wine and recipes mixed in. I don't want to give too much away.. But I really enjoyed this book!
Shelby and Zach started out on the wrong foot due to a huge miss understand. I'm gonna be honest I didn't like Zach at first but he grew on me.. I loved the fact that Shelby had a back bone and stood up for herself. As the story unfolds you end up falling in love and rooting for them. The story is a perfect mix of humor and tension, with wine and recipes mixed in. I don't want to give too much away.. But I really enjoyed this book!
September 12, 2017
I love reading a book and being able to tell that the author put a lot of thought into how she wanted the story to unfold. I all of the components of this story worked so well together, it really made me want to hop into a car, and head south for some wine and food!
Kathryn made you believe you were you were right there with the characters, surrounded by this beautiful setting, experiencing everything the characters were. She made me wish I was a wine expert and a foodie.
It's been a while since her last book, but after reading The Sweetness of Life, it was definitely worth the wait!
Kathryn made you believe you were you were right there with the characters, surrounded by this beautiful setting, experiencing everything the characters were. She made me wish I was a wine expert and a foodie.
It's been a while since her last book, but after reading The Sweetness of Life, it was definitely worth the wait!
March 11, 2021
If you enjoy stories of food and wine, you will love The Sweetness of Life by Kathryn Andrews. Set in a winery in northern Georgia, this book oozes in southern charm.
Shelby Leigh is a food critic, blogger and chef who is looking to land a job with the Food Network channel. She loves putting her southern flavour on old classics and has developed a reputation as a well respected chef. When she is provided with an opportunity by the channel to spend two weeks in a winery developing recipes that can be paired with their wines, she jumps at the chance. She is disappointed to learn that the winery owner is Zach Wolff, aka her worst blind date ever. This leaves her even more determined than ever to make this assignment spectacular.
Zach hates critics - ever since the bad review he didn’t deserve to receive. When he sees that Shelby is the critic/chef who has come to spend the next two weeks with him, he sets out to develop a plan. He can certainly look beyond Shelby’s obvious beauty and charm in order to win a favourable review. Or can he?
I enjoyed this story, which is told from the dual perspectives of Shelby and Zach. Although the plot was predictable, I also found it to be both charming and entertaining. The characters were well developed and likeable. I appreciated the information on the wines, and the recipes that were shared at the end of each chapter (they all sound amazing). While I found that the book flowed a little too slow for me, it also represented a more laid back lifestyle I associate with the setting.
I listened to the audiobook format of the book which was narrated by Joshua Macrae and Natalie Duke. I enjoyed their performances and appreciated that their voices/accents reflected a book set in Georgia. I listened to the book at a slightly faster !.5x speed to make the performance more comfortable. If you appreciate listening to books with narration that represents the geographical area, I’d suggest choosing the audiobook format.
Thanks to Netgalley and Orange Sky Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for the honest review provided here.
Shelby Leigh is a food critic, blogger and chef who is looking to land a job with the Food Network channel. She loves putting her southern flavour on old classics and has developed a reputation as a well respected chef. When she is provided with an opportunity by the channel to spend two weeks in a winery developing recipes that can be paired with their wines, she jumps at the chance. She is disappointed to learn that the winery owner is Zach Wolff, aka her worst blind date ever. This leaves her even more determined than ever to make this assignment spectacular.
Zach hates critics - ever since the bad review he didn’t deserve to receive. When he sees that Shelby is the critic/chef who has come to spend the next two weeks with him, he sets out to develop a plan. He can certainly look beyond Shelby’s obvious beauty and charm in order to win a favourable review. Or can he?
I enjoyed this story, which is told from the dual perspectives of Shelby and Zach. Although the plot was predictable, I also found it to be both charming and entertaining. The characters were well developed and likeable. I appreciated the information on the wines, and the recipes that were shared at the end of each chapter (they all sound amazing). While I found that the book flowed a little too slow for me, it also represented a more laid back lifestyle I associate with the setting.
I listened to the audiobook format of the book which was narrated by Joshua Macrae and Natalie Duke. I enjoyed their performances and appreciated that their voices/accents reflected a book set in Georgia. I listened to the book at a slightly faster !.5x speed to make the performance more comfortable. If you appreciate listening to books with narration that represents the geographical area, I’d suggest choosing the audiobook format.
Thanks to Netgalley and Orange Sky Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for the honest review provided here.
May 1, 2020
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Shelby and Zach’s story. Shelby and Zach first met when one of her best friends set them up on a blind date that went badly. Now just when she thinks she is getting the job of her dreams she is forced to work with him. Can they work together with all the anger between them? He hates everything he thinks she represents that is until he spends time with her and gets to know her. Now he wants her but how can he change the way she sees him. After all her first impression of him was not good. He will have two weeks that they have to work together to get her to like him. Can he get her to like him enough to fall for him? After all he already fell for her.
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Shelby and Zach’s story. Shelby and Zach first met when one of her best friends set them up on a blind date that went badly. Now just when she thinks she is getting the job of her dreams she is forced to work with him. Can they work together with all the anger between them? He hates everything he thinks she represents that is until he spends time with her and gets to know her. Now he wants her but how can he change the way she sees him. After all her first impression of him was not good. He will have two weeks that they have to work together to get her to like him. Can he get her to like him enough to fall for him? After all he already fell for her.
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
April 28, 2024
Predictable, but cute cozy read.
October 13, 2021
Most delicious award!
March 15, 2021
Story:🌟🌟🌟
Audiobook:🌟🌟
Shelby Leigh is a food blogger whose big dream is to be on food network. She’s given the opportunity to spend two weeks at a winery pairing food and wine together. This is one more thing she can add to her resume, and one step closer to achieving her dream. There is one problem though, Zach Wolff.
Zach Wolff loves wine and hates food critics. He will do anything to make sure the winery is a success. When he finds out he is working with Shelby in this once in a lifetime opportunity, he vows to do whatever it takes to get a glowing review for the winery. The history between these two?? The worse blind date to ever happen.
The Sweetness of Life is book 1 in the Starving for Southern series by Kathryn Andrews. This is already out for purchase, but I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook.
Things I liked:
1. Southern Sayings: I LOVE the little touches of southernisms sprinkled throughout this story such as “Bless Your Heart” and “Madder than a wet hen”.
2. Setting: a southern winery
3. Recipes: Each chapter has a recipe and I would purchase this book for them alone!
Things I didn’t like:
1. Zach Wolff: Zach was not my favorite hero. He is so wishy-washy with his feelings for Shelby. As far as narration in the audiobook, Zach was supposed to (I think) have this deep southern voice, and it was just too breathy and hard to understand at times.
2. The romance: At first I thought this was going to be hate-to-love and I guess it was?? At one point Zach decided he was going to be nice and do whatever to make sure he got a good review from Shelby for the winery. He would talk about how crazy he was about her then completely blow her off and get jealous if she got attention from another man. Even Shelby asked him who she was going to be with today, Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde. I couldn’t get behind them being together.
I might consider continuing with this series physically but I will not continue with the audiobooks. I did really enjoy the side characters and would like to see what happens with them.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to listen to the audio of this book. All opinions are my own.
Audiobook:🌟🌟
Shelby Leigh is a food blogger whose big dream is to be on food network. She’s given the opportunity to spend two weeks at a winery pairing food and wine together. This is one more thing she can add to her resume, and one step closer to achieving her dream. There is one problem though, Zach Wolff.
Zach Wolff loves wine and hates food critics. He will do anything to make sure the winery is a success. When he finds out he is working with Shelby in this once in a lifetime opportunity, he vows to do whatever it takes to get a glowing review for the winery. The history between these two?? The worse blind date to ever happen.
The Sweetness of Life is book 1 in the Starving for Southern series by Kathryn Andrews. This is already out for purchase, but I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook.
Things I liked:
1. Southern Sayings: I LOVE the little touches of southernisms sprinkled throughout this story such as “Bless Your Heart” and “Madder than a wet hen”.
2. Setting: a southern winery
3. Recipes: Each chapter has a recipe and I would purchase this book for them alone!
Things I didn’t like:
1. Zach Wolff: Zach was not my favorite hero. He is so wishy-washy with his feelings for Shelby. As far as narration in the audiobook, Zach was supposed to (I think) have this deep southern voice, and it was just too breathy and hard to understand at times.
2. The romance: At first I thought this was going to be hate-to-love and I guess it was?? At one point Zach decided he was going to be nice and do whatever to make sure he got a good review from Shelby for the winery. He would talk about how crazy he was about her then completely blow her off and get jealous if she got attention from another man. Even Shelby asked him who she was going to be with today, Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde. I couldn’t get behind them being together.
I might consider continuing with this series physically but I will not continue with the audiobooks. I did really enjoy the side characters and would like to see what happens with them.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to listen to the audio of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 5, 2017
For just one rating I would like Goodreads to allow me to give this book more than 5 STARS! This book was AMAZING. Everything about this book from the cover, to the way the story was lined with recipes that were incorporated flawlessly, to the beautiful writing. This book was EVERYTHING.
This book not only took your mind through a journey, the author nailed it when it came to scenery. The way the vineyard was described I could see such a clear and enchanting picture in my head. My taste buds for food and wine was also another unexpected and pleasantly hit. The way the food and the wine was described with such passion and details, had me savoring these exact experiences.
This story really is one of my favorite romance genres...Hate to Lovers. Zach, he is this sexy, ex-football player who after his career ended took over his family wine business. Shelby is this beautiful, smart, and very talented, blog, chef and restaurant owner. These two will take you on such an amazing ride . They both are the best of people, but they see the worst in each other. Watching those layers come off one by one was amazing. The FREAKEN chemistry between these two was EVERYTHING! I love when characters have this kind of chemistry.
I loved EVERY part of this book. I know I say this a lot, but this has to be one of my FAVORITE if not FAVORITE book this year. Everything about this book was spot on! It hit all the right places, emotionally.... and goodness that ENDING! I can not wait to see what else we get in this series, because this book right here was the BOMB (is that even cool anymore to say).
PS... This book needs to be a Passionflix movie like yesterday... I can already see it... It would be AMAZING!!!
Go get this book it is a #MUSTREAD! Believe me you will thank me later!
This book not only took your mind through a journey, the author nailed it when it came to scenery. The way the vineyard was described I could see such a clear and enchanting picture in my head. My taste buds for food and wine was also another unexpected and pleasantly hit. The way the food and the wine was described with such passion and details, had me savoring these exact experiences.
This story really is one of my favorite romance genres...Hate to Lovers. Zach, he is this sexy, ex-football player who after his career ended took over his family wine business. Shelby is this beautiful, smart, and very talented, blog, chef and restaurant owner. These two will take you on such an amazing ride . They both are the best of people, but they see the worst in each other. Watching those layers come off one by one was amazing. The FREAKEN chemistry between these two was EVERYTHING! I love when characters have this kind of chemistry.
I loved EVERY part of this book. I know I say this a lot, but this has to be one of my FAVORITE if not FAVORITE book this year. Everything about this book was spot on! It hit all the right places, emotionally.... and goodness that ENDING! I can not wait to see what else we get in this series, because this book right here was the BOMB (is that even cool anymore to say).
PS... This book needs to be a Passionflix movie like yesterday... I can already see it... It would be AMAZING!!!
Go get this book it is a #MUSTREAD! Believe me you will thank me later!
July 26, 2018
I have been reading this book on and off since it came out. Life just has plans for you and i have a belief that books come into people’s life sometimes when the story is needed. This book is my favorite read this year making me wish I had stopped to smell the lavender. I love the concept of a southern recipe at the end of each chapter and I’m looking forward to making a couple and even changing some family recipes because of them.
Kathryn has this way on bringing the characters to life. Her descriptions amaze me sometimes. Like Zach he’s an only child. I loved how she showed that by describing his relationship with his parents. Of course being an only not a lot of people understand the dynamic but Kathryn does. She says “I get to keep them all to myself. It makes our relationship more, and the things that are most important to me, I don’t share.”
Yesssss!! I know it’s a weird one to pick out but I love it.
His relationship with Shelby grows from hate to an unexpected love. Both of them show it within the first chapter.
“Zachary Wolff is nobody to me, and he can kiss my grits. No one is ever going to get in my way.No one.”
She wasn’t alone in the mutual feelings...
“I remember how yesterday I said I’d do anything just short of selling my soul to the devil, well as it turns out my soul is about to get real friendly with the devil—a she-devil that is.”
I loved everything about this book! No spoilers! It’s a sweet read! One click today! Thanks for writing their story.
Kathryn has this way on bringing the characters to life. Her descriptions amaze me sometimes. Like Zach he’s an only child. I loved how she showed that by describing his relationship with his parents. Of course being an only not a lot of people understand the dynamic but Kathryn does. She says “I get to keep them all to myself. It makes our relationship more, and the things that are most important to me, I don’t share.”
Yesssss!! I know it’s a weird one to pick out but I love it.
His relationship with Shelby grows from hate to an unexpected love. Both of them show it within the first chapter.
“Zachary Wolff is nobody to me, and he can kiss my grits. No one is ever going to get in my way.No one.”
She wasn’t alone in the mutual feelings...
“I remember how yesterday I said I’d do anything just short of selling my soul to the devil, well as it turns out my soul is about to get real friendly with the devil—a she-devil that is.”
I loved everything about this book! No spoilers! It’s a sweet read! One click today! Thanks for writing their story.
September 28, 2017
I forgot how refreshing it was to read about real adults doing real life things-with characters so genuine that you want to be friends with in real life. This was the first book I have read by this author, and I must confess I went back and one clicked the rest of her stories. Her writing was amazing-and I absolutely adored how she added recipes in parts of the book. It made me actually want to stop what I was doing and make the dish right then and there-and go back to reading while it was cooking, of course.
Shelby and Zach are polar opposites when we're first introduced. Shelby is a food blogger, as well as many other things in the industry, but she's also someone that Zach despises. She's a critic, and the heel wearing gorgeous woman that's sent to his winery to write up a piece for the food network-yeah, he needs to avoid her at all costs. He believes she's not good for the winery's image, and for his emotions. After two weeks of being thrown together by chance, it's safe to say these two career driven individuals finally find something to compliment their love of food and wine. This is a must one click-and make sure have a printer for all the amazing recipes throughout the book!
Shelby and Zach are polar opposites when we're first introduced. Shelby is a food blogger, as well as many other things in the industry, but she's also someone that Zach despises. She's a critic, and the heel wearing gorgeous woman that's sent to his winery to write up a piece for the food network-yeah, he needs to avoid her at all costs. He believes she's not good for the winery's image, and for his emotions. After two weeks of being thrown together by chance, it's safe to say these two career driven individuals finally find something to compliment their love of food and wine. This is a must one click-and make sure have a printer for all the amazing recipes throughout the book!
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