Cover Image: Chef's Kiss

Chef's Kiss

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

This was so cute!! It took me some time to get into but by the end I really loved it!!

The story telling is pretty unique and I loved the art style of this one! Overall a wholesome comfort read!

Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for this free eArc, this is my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

Cute but a bit too saccharine for my traste. It reads like a fanfiction made graphic novel and while a lot of people will like it I think younger readers might enjoy it more.

Was this review helpful?

3 stars

Such a cute story! At first, I thought it was going to be more focused on the romance, but actually that's a pretty secondary storyline. It's a comic about identity, about finding out what you love, what you're passionate about, and if that actually is what you want to do with your career.

Food is also a big part of the story, and I really enjoyed seeing Ben learning and creating new dishes. I also liked the friend group, especially Ben's relationship with Liz, the conflict that they have and how is it resolved.

What I definitely found weird is the whole thing with the pig. It's just ridiculous. And the confrontation with Ben's parents was overdramatic in an unnecessary way.

But overall, I enjoyed the reading experience and would recommend it if you want something short, fun and lighthearted.

Was this review helpful?

Chefs Kiss follows, Ben Cook, a recent college graduate who is looking for a job, but runs into many (far too real) difficulties when every job he interviews for requires professional experience. With no job, Ben is desperate to start making money when he runs across a help wanted wanted sign outside of a restaurant. He grabs at the opportunity and is thrown into the world of cooking with a very cute chef named Liam.

I really enjoyed this graphic novel! To begin, the art was amazing and went well with the story (if that makes sense?). The characters were all great, the only issue was that there were so many characters it was hard for much growth to happen and I felt a bit of a disconnect from each character due to that. Ben having to gain his place at the restaurant by getting judged by a pig is funny and quirky for this story. They also definitely did try to fit a lot within this pretty short story and that also made the book feel a bit rushed. I wish it was longer so we could see more of Ben working through his challenges each week. But, overall this was a very fun read!

Was this review helpful?

Ben Cook, freshly graduated from college, is moving into a new apartment with three friends. Now all he needs is a job, the approval of his parents, and maybe — if he’s lucky — a boyfriend. However, finding a job isn’t as easy as he thought it would be, not when everyone wants to hire someone who knows what they’re doing, not some wet-behind-the-ears kid with no experience. It’s happenstance that Ben sees the sign in the window: Now Hiring – No Experience Necessary.

Ben’s never thought about cooking as a job. When he cooks, he does so for fun, and for food. But a job’s a job. It doesn’t help that the Liam, the chef who greeted him when he came in, is blonde, blue eyed, and absolutely gorgeous. And willing to give Ben a chance. Unfortunately, Liam’s not the boss. That would be Chef Davis, who takes an instant dislike to Ben, who never bothers to get his name right, and who won’t even taste his food.

No, Ben’s food is only good enough for the pig.

Ben isn’t lazy or entitled or unrealistic in his dreams. He’s willing to work, and work hard. He was willing to look for jobs in any field, because a job is a job, whether it’s retail, sanitation, or cooking. He just happens to be a natural cook. All of the recipes he’s shown, he improves upon. His skills in cooking are brilliant, so much so that the restaurant taste tester — Watson, who just so happens to be Chef Davis’ pet pig — adores everything Ben cooks. In no time at all, Ben has gone from being cautious to captivated with the idea of being a chef.

Liam, one of the three other chefs at the restaurant, takes Ben under his wing. The two of them fall into an easy friendship, and Liam isn’t unaware of Ben’s charms. After a drunken night of bonding with his fellow chefs has Ben spilling his guts twice (the first time bemoaning it wasn’t just he and Liam, and the second time ruining Liam’s shoes), Liam realizes that Ben feels something for him. And Liam slowly, gently, makes a few discrete moves of his own. After all, there’s no point rushing things when they have all the time in the world to get to know one another.

Chef’s Kiss is a charming graphic novel with bright colors, good character design, and good flow and pacing. Ben’s inner thoughts about Liam’s smile, his hotness, his shoulders are done with curly, pink-toned bubbles to separate them from the normal white, crisp lines of conversation. Drunk Ben’s speech bubbles have green foozles and wavy, wandering lines to indicate wavy, wandering thoughts, both of which are really cleverly done.

I have a few issues with this graphic novel, however. The first is Ben’s parents, who are such caricatures in their “disappointed parent” act that they’d be too broadly painted even for a sitcom. And then there’s Ben, himself, who goes from being a talented home cook to out performing three trained chefs in less than three weeks. In fact, he’s so beyond amazing it’s unbelievable. The author even makes a point of having Ben modestly comment how he didn’t go to culinary school, all while he’s cooking these chef’s dishes — and then improving upon them so much so that their food tasting pig either ascends to paradise, breaks into the kitchen for more, or ends up satiated with a cigarette in his hooves with a smile on his face. These are standard story beats, and there’s nothing wrong with them on their own, but owing to the medium and the limited pages of a graphic novel, there’s no nuance or depth to these relationships or situations, making them feel unsatisfying.

If you’re looking for a graphic novel, I do recommend Chef’s Kiss. This a light, sweet, and somewhat shallow — while being very pretty — story with two-dimensional characters. Enjoy it for what it is, and try not to get too hungry.

Was this review helpful?

I was approved for a free NetGalley e-ARC. Unfortunately, the approval was made on the same day that the ARC was archived and I never had a chance to download it. After publication, my public library did acquire it and I am now able to provide a review.

This is a new adult graphic novel about Ben Cook who is trying to balance becoming independent, looking for a job, falling in love and maintaining old and new friendships. The art work was pleasant, if a bit busy. I did like the humor. Also, a great deal of focus was placed on the cooking process at the expense of more development of the MC's personal journey, the side characters and the romantic relationship.

Overall, it was cute and funny but felt like a missed opportunity for a more interesting story.

Was this review helpful?

I'm usually not a fan of graphic novels, but this one... This one was amazing, I actually loved it!

I liked how we can see amazing friendship and how they support each other. The struggles Ben goes through, just to figure out what he wants to do and to make a choice for himself and not pick the other option because parents want to or make him do it. And love, that plays a big part too. :)

So if and when there is a sequel to this book, I'm definitely reading it! Can't wait.

Was this review helpful?

This graphic novel packs a lot into its 125 pages. It’s easy to like the protagonist Ben, who stumbles into a chef-in-training job at a vegetarian restaurant. He’s hard working and earnest, and puts a lot of heart into each of the cooking challenges, even though he intended to find a publishing job after graduating with an English degree.

Ben is supported by a strong cast of secondary characters, who serve as excellent foils, but I found the restaurant owner/head chef to be overly abrasive. I understand that this is 100% accurate when it comes to head chefs, but having him scream at Ben over nothing added a level of stress into an otherwise lowkey and low-angst narrative.

BUT, Chef did have an adorable pig with a refined palate named Watson, so I suppose he can be forgiven for being grumpy. AND, Ben has the support of dreamy second-in-command Liam, who offers advice and guidance every step of the way.

I would recommend Chef’s Kiss. It’s classified as New Adult, but I found it to be appropriate for the YA crowd as well. There’s minimal profanity and no explicit content. There are plenty of lessons about being true to yourself, and respecting friends. There is plenty of cooking, as would be expected from a book that takes place in a restaurant, and the meals prepared made me so hungry. I wanted to eat every single thing Ben made!

Was this review helpful?

<strong>This New Adult Graphic Novel was the most relatable thing ever </strong> 💗 It's about 22-year old <u>Ben Cook who just graduated from college and is moving in with his three best friends, determined to start Adult Life</u>. I loved reading about a protagonist close to my age who is <strong>struggling with his own independence and future</strong>. Just like Ben, I'm not so sure what I want to be and I liked that we saw an uncertain main character trying to figure out what he wants from life. <strong>Job hunting isn't going well for Ben, who is frustrated that he is written off as soon as he discloses that he doesn't have practical experience</strong>. This is all still ahead for me, but I felt his annoyance and growing despair, as he did 'everything right' with his studies and has no idea how he is supposed to gain experience when everyone expects he should already have it. I also <strong>loved seeing his friendships and roommates who each have their different experience with Adult life</strong>: two already have a job and are getting another degree. The book was much focused on <u>Ben's journey adjusting to working and dealing with overbearing, controlling parents</u> who have a specific life planned for him.

<strong>I also loved seeing Ben discover his passion for cooking and falling for Liam </strong> 🥰 When he fails to find a job and is about to give up, Ben discovers a restaurant that hires people without requiring experience. He <strong>takes his chance and is put on a trial period, as his strict and choleric new boss doesn't 100% trust him yet</strong>. The head chef and restaurant owner is a pretty horrible boss at first - something that's sadly common in kitchens - requiring Ben to succeed in a challenge each week in order to keep his job. However, <u>Ben has a natural talent for cooking and is determined to stay on</u>, improving himself constantly. It also helps that one of his n<strong>ew coworkers is charming cook Liam who immediately tries to include and help him</strong>. Ben develops a big crush on him and I loved seeing the pining between them, though it wasn't the focus of this story!

<strong>IN CONCLUSION.</strong> ➽ <i>Chef's Kiss </i>was a<strong> fantastic, charming New Adult graphic novel that deals with growing up, finding your place and discovering your true passion</strong>. I loved the blend of pining & romance, friendships, and cooking (so much delicious food!) The story addressed difficult topics but was still so heartwarming and lovely 😊

Was this review helpful?

1st Line: " 'Four years of college move-in days, you'd think I'd seen everything.' "

Review: Newly-graduated from college with his English degree, Ben Cook has moved into a house with three friends/roommates, and is officially ready to begin his journalism career. Only problem is, without experience no one will hire him. Even with his friends trying their best to keep his spirits up, a downtrodden Ben is at his lowest when he stumbles one day upon a small upscale restaurant with a "Help Wanted - No Experience Necessary" sign on the door. Between his love of cooking and need to keep the rent paid, Ben hurries in to apply ... running into Liam, a tall, Nordic-looking hunk with a warm smile and friendly manner who is more than happy to give Ben a chance at the job, though it's the bigger, louder, not-so-friendly owner who informs Ben of the three challenges he must face to secure the position - before introducing Ben to the pig who will judge his fate (yes, you read that right).

Can Ben pass the tests? Can Ben keep his heart from leaping out of his chest every time he gets within ten feet of Liam? And how does one cook for a finicky pig? Chef's Kiss answers all of this and more in a charming, off-beat, frothy and funny m/m romance that also has some great things to say about following your dreams - and your dreams, as opposed to those of others. The artwork is equally sweet, characters believable and very easy to like, and (thankfully) the romance isn't in any rush to bloom, but grows naturally from the story; it's nice that Ben doesn't spend all his time mooning over Liam, remembering real-world problems and being there for his own friends along the way ... as well as doing his best to win the resaurant job, if not Liam's heart.

No big plot twists - no shocking revelations or super-corny tropes - and this graphic novel is better for it. Like Ben's cooking: all-natural, delicious, and so easy on the palate. Great book; already hoping for a sequel! (Available April 12) 4/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

The art style is very pretty, the story however... Yeah I had some issues with it.
I feel like we had no progress at all for like the first 70% of the book and then the last 30% was just chaos.

Was this review helpful?

Chef's Kiss was a cute slice of life type story with quirky relatable characters. Featuring a new college grad who has to figure out what he wants and whether he wants to go along with what his parents want for him,, if he can even get the job they want him to get. Faced with the decision to pursue the career he and his parents have wanted for him since he was a kid or the new job he's recently discovered he actually really likes .A job that comes with a handsome and sweet bonus friend who may become more than a friend. Overall ten out of ten. Cute with fun characters and just enough drama and tension to add a sweet twist.

Was this review helpful?

This book was read thanks to NetGalley.


A funny romance romance that showcase the beauty of love.

Writing a romantic comedy isn't easy, but Melendez make it seem as it was, because the novel has a phase so easy to get on, with a perfect balance of love and comedy, the illustrations adds so perfectly to the books because it helps you with the expressions and all that stuff that just make the character and the story better. I highly recommend it.

Was this review helpful?

This was a brilliant, funny and dramatic story, it rivals other popular LGBT focused graphic novels. There are moments of raw emotions and each and every window/dialogue felt purposeful and thoughtful

Was this review helpful?

Chef's Kiss is a lighthearted story that perfectly captured the transition of college life to adulthood.

The story followed Ben, an English graduate, who was having a difficult time to get a job related to his passion for reading and writing. When he stumbled a 'now hiring' sign outside a restaurant, he took that chance. To be fully get the job, he needed to pass series of tests first. Having fun while acquiring new skills and experiences, new friends, and a possible new love interest because of this job, Ben started questioning what he really wanted to do with his life.

Plotwise, it was straightforwardly real and relatable. Everyone could relate to Ben's dilemma about choosing between pursuing the career related to what he had studied and the one which he found fun and exciting. It also portrayed how hard it was for graduates to get a job because of some companies' ridiculous requirements. On the other hand, there was a little bit of romance but it didn't overwhelm the story which I liked. Lastly, the food. The illustrations were definitely mouthwatering.

The characters were interesting too even when they weren't fleshed out much. The art style was cute too!

Overall, Chef's Kiss is a cute queer graphic novel that everyone can enjoy.

Was this review helpful?

Chef's Kiss is a sweet, queer graphic novel that give us a reminder that the best things in life are unplanned.

I absolutely loved how much diversity & representation this story had. I couldn't help to smile a lot through the book. The characters were described so vividly that I could relate to them so easily.

First book I've read by this author and will look at more in the future.

Was this review helpful?

This was a fun and flirty read, with lots if quirk and character.
It's definitely one of those where you'll be able to enjoy it more if you check your expectations and skepticism at the door.
The art style was cool and memorable, and I'm interested to see where it goes.

Was this review helpful?

This is a contemporary fiction with an interesting blend of different emotions in it. The book focuses on the lead character named Claire. The plot takes the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions and feelings as we go along with our protagonist on a road of self discovery and development. The author has written down the an very interesting plotline where the plot focuses on the character development of the protagonist along with amazing characters and scenarios involved in it. The narration of the book is so smooth and easy that the readers are able to enjoy the spirit of the book. There are numerous characters involved yet each shines throughout the book as the author has well potraited each and every character. The book is being layered nicely with the situation and incidents that were quite interesting to read. The characters in the plot kept me hooked till the end. Each has been given sufficient scope to contribute to the plot. The language used is lucid. It is definitely a good read for all the readers.

Was this review helpful?

I mostly really liked this book. My main problems with it were that the conflict with Liz felt like it came out of nowhere and was still resolved quickly, and didn't really matter in the main narrative. I also felt like Ben's parents showing up at the restaurant similarly came out of nowhere, and I felt like that point could have been more fleshed out in the middle where the Liz conflict was instead. I always wish that graphic novels were longer, but overall it was a cute and enjoyable story.

Was this review helpful?

"'I was supposed to be a writer. At least that's what I thought I wanted. Really, it's what my parents always wanted, and I think what I really wanted was their approval. But I don't think I would have gotten that even if I got one of the writing jobs I applied for. Now I'm doing this with you guys, and I think I'm happier, but I still love writing. Is that crazy?'
'There's nothing crazy about figuring out what makes you happy and deciding to pursue whatever that ends up being. It sounds like maybe writing is a passion, but you pursued it for the wrong reasons? Whatever you decide to do, it doesn't have to be forever.'"

This is another one of those graphic novels that I requested on NetGalley by looking solely at the cover. I keep telling myself I'll stop doing that, but then again, I sometimes end up being approved to read cute little graphic novels like this one. This is definitely a mature young adult or new adult graphic novel. The characters have just graduated from college and are busy figuring out what life looks like post-grad. Ben has just moved into a new apartment with three of his friends. Two of them have new jobs and one is pursuing another degree. Ben has just graduated with his bachelors in English and is busy looking for some type of writing job. He gets told over and over again that because he has no experience, no company is willing to hire him. Ben happens to walk by a restaurant that is hiring, no experience necessary. Ben lands the gig, but he has to go through three weeks of training first learning how to make the various vegetarian dishes and having them approved by Watson, a taste-testing pig. Yes, Ben's full-time employment is contingent on a pig taste-testing his culinary dishes.

I really enjoyed this graphic novel as it very clearly and painfully shows the reality of how difficult it is to land your first job post-grad. For years, college has been pushed on young people and they are told if they "just have a degree, they'll land a job!" However, the reality is much different for too many college graduates. Companies want to hire young talent, but they also don't want to train their employees from scratch so they want someone with a few years of experience. Ben faces the dilemma that I faced when I first graduated: no one will hire you because you have no experience. As someone who experienced that reality for 2.5 years, it was nice to see my experience validated on the page. I also enjoyed seeing Ben figure out what he wanted his life to look like without the influence of his parents. There are definitely some growing pains with Ben figuring this out, but at the end of the graphic novel, I felt I could see Ben moving in the right direction. I also appreciated how there were some major sparks flying but overall this book was pretty clean in terms of sexual content. There's nothing in this graphic novel I wouldn't want a teenager getting their hands on. This is an enjoyable read for readers of mature young adult and new adult graphic novels!

TW: emotional abuse, vomit, alcohol use, drug use

**Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for the advanced reader's edition of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?