Book Review - You Had Me At Halloumi by Ginger Jones

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Amazom UK

Title: You Had Me At Halloumi

Author: Ginger Jones

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Zaffre

Publication Date: 14th April 2022 

Rating: 5 Stars

Freya Butterly has always dreamt of being a Head Chef but despite running every service at the Mediterranean restaurant, she still doesn't get the recognition she deserves. Craving adventure and a real taste of the Mediterranean, Freya takes matters into her own hands, ditching both her job and unsympathetic boyfriend and packing her bags for sunny Cyprus in pursuit of the prestigious Golden Spoon culinary award.

As one of the seven competitors, Freya is determined to rediscover her passion for food and clinch the prize, but what she doesn't expect to discover is Xanthos. As gorgeous as he is charming - he's quite the dish - and Freya is instantly attracted to him, but this trip was about Cypriot cuisine, not romance and she knows she must not let Xanthos distract her from the competition.

But if she walks away, will Freya spend the rest of her life wondering What If? Surely, it's feta late than never . . .

Do not read this when you are hungry. I was predominately reading while eating and it was still making me long for more food! 

The food descriptions and all the descriptions of the cookery competition were sublime. 

Then there is the comparison of a chess board with a cheese board, from a Greek god of a man that was seducing me, and I don't even like cheese! I am a fan of hot Greek and Cypriot men though! 

This Golden Spoon cookery competition has been Freya's dream since she was a child, and I loved being there alongside her every step of the way.  I was angry at the blatant sabotage, shocked at who was doing it, I was willing her to believe in her own skills more. 

I was hooked on every last word of this book and really can't believe it appears to be a debut novel. I'm already looking forward to the author's next book, I enjoyed this one that much. 

It' is pure fabulous escapism, perfect for poolside reading, or even in your garden, or just where you have snacks in easy reach. 

The best recipe of food, love, intrigue, competition, and armchair travel, baked in the hot summer sun, and producing a mouth watering story. 

Thank you to Zaffre and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.