The Coincidence of Coconut Cake - by Amy E Reichert (Paperback)

About the Book

The story of "a talented chef and the food critic who brings down her restaurant, whose chance meeting turns into a ... romance of mistaken identities"--Amazon.com.

Book Synopsis

A charming romantic comedy about a talented chef and the anonymous food critic who nearly destroys her restaurant--only to fall for her in real life--in this delightful enemies-to-lovers love story set in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

In downtown Milwaukee, Lou works tirelessly to build her beloved yet struggling French restaurant, Luella's, into a success. She balances the pressures of running a small business with wedding plans and a demanding fiancé...until the morning she discovers him in the buff--with an intern.

Meanwhile, witty yet gruff British transplant Al keeps himself employed--and entertained--by writing scathing restaurant reviews for the local newspaper under a pseudonym. When an anonymous tip sends him to Luella's on the worst day of Lou's life, he delivers a devastating critique: underdone fish, scorched sauce, distracted service. The fallout could close her doors for good.

When Lou and Al later meet by chance in a pub, neither realizes they're on opposite sides of a professional disaster. Sparks fly as they explore Milwaukee's hidden culinary gems, bonding over food, second chances, and undeniable chemistry. But as Lou's restaurant struggles and Al's column gains momentum, the truth looms. When their mistaken identities are finally revealed, can love survive a betrayal served cold?

Set in the quirky, vibrant heart of Wisconsin, The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a feel-good, enemies-to-lovers romance about fresh starts, forgiveness, and the power of food to bring people together.

Review Quotes

"...Reichert's quirky and endearing debut skillfully and slyly examines identity and community while its characters find love in surprising places. Clever, creative, and sweetly delicious."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a smart and delicious debut--a read as satisfying as the last bite of dessert after a lovingly-prepared meal. The novel is as much a celebration of the midwest and regional food as it is a love story between chef Lou and food critic Al. I adored Lou and her quirky makeshift family of restaurant customers and co-workers. Their missteps and milestones kept me racing through the chapters, craving another course."--Susan Gloss, author of the novel VINTAGE

"A delectable novel."-- "Bookreporter"

"Amy E. Reichert takes the cake with this charming tale of food, friendship, and fate."--Beth Harbison, New York Times bestselling author of IF I COULD TURN BACK TIME

"Amy E. Reichert whips up the perfect recipe for a deliciously fun read. Combine humor and romance with a dash of drama, then let it simmer. The sprinkle of Wisconsin pride is icing on an already irresistable cake. Warning: do not read this book hungry!"--Elizabeth Eulberg, author of THE LONELY HEARTS CLUB and BETTER OFF FRIENDS

"Amy E. Reichert writes like your best friend and reading her words is like having that friend whisper them into your ear. The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a delicious story of food, love, and a wink at what people will do to have their cake and eat it, too."--Ann Garvin, author of THE DOG YEAR and MAGGIE'S WATCH

"Amy Reichert brings sweetness and substance to her delicious debut. Sign me up for second helpings!"--Lisa Patton, bestselling author of WHISTLIN' DIXIE IN A NOR'EASTER

"Deliciously entertaining! Amy E. Reichert's voice is warm and funny in this delightful ode to second chances and the healing power of a meal cooked with love."--Meg Donohue, USA Today bestselling author of DOG CRAZY and ALL THE SUMMER GIRLS

"Highly recommended that you eat before reading this book...a light, fun read that feels a bit like eating dessert for dinner."-- "RT Book Reviews"

"Light, fun, and easily digestible, this sweet romance is worthy of second helpings."-- "Real Simple"

"This is a fun read peppered with dashes of humor, dollops of sadness and drizzles of sensuality."-- "All You Magazine"

"Well-developed secondary characters and detailed descriptions of the Milwaukee food scene will leave readers hungry for more. Fans of Stacey Ballis and Erica Bauermeister will find lots to love."-- "Booklist"

"What a wonderful treat! Delicious descriptions of food and love and Milwaukee (I know! Who knew?). A sweet, endearing read."--Megan Mulry, USA Today Bestselling Author of A ROYAL PAIN