Simmer Down

4/5 stars

Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Nikki and her mother run a food truck featuring authentic Filipino food that both locals and tourists of Maui love. While the death of Nikki’s father and some money troubles keep Nikki worrying, nothing infuriated Nikki more than when Callum James parked his food truck right next to her sacred beach spot. Nikki vows she will not be swayed by Callum’s good looks and the two decide to face off in the Maui Food Festival to determine who can keep the prime spot and the $20,000 prize. 

I really enjoyed this book. I always appreciate Own Voices reads and I was excited to read a diverse romance novel that didn’t just throw diversity in your face. This book did not disappoint on the romance (and included a few steamy scenes too). The descriptions of food had my mouth constantly watering. Simmer Down transported me to Maui, a welcome escape from the world.

The only place where the novel lacked was it began to be a little repetitive with roadblocks and challenges for our main couple’s relationship. I got to the point where I could predict the misunderstandings and fights that would ensue. These relationship troubles took center stage to the point where I had almost forgotten about the food challenge and was hoping for more conflict when it finally arrived. Even with this, I kept turning the pages because I wanted a happy ending. 

I also enjoyed the investigation into emotions and death. Nikki has to grapple with her father’s sudden passing. I saw her struggle with how she handles life and relationships, and I enjoyed the character development she went through during the course of the story. 

Overall, this was a fun read that had my stomach growling the entire time. It was a fun romance that took me on a trip around the world and a nice escape from life.

Be sure to check out Simmer Down on October 13, 2020 for Pub Day!