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Opposites Attract #1
The Opposite of You
I’ve sworn off men.
All men.
Famous last words, right? You’re expecting some epic tale of reluctant love and my dramatic change of heart? Well, you’re not going to get it.
I’m stubborn. And headstrong. And I’ve just survived the worst three years of my life. After escaping an abusive boyfriend to live in hostels and cheap hotels while I worked my way across Europe, I’ve come to two conclusions.
The first? Now that I’m back home, I’m going to squander my expensive culinary degree on a food truck that caters to the late night drunk crowd.
The second? I’m going to prove to the bastard across the plaza that my street food is better than his fussy five course monstrosities.
Killian Quinn might be Food and Wine’s Chef to Watch Out For. He might have a Michelin Star. He might have every food critic in the city wrapped around his too-large fingers. But he’s also pretentious and unbearably arrogant and the very opposite of me.
So he can keep his unsolicited advice and his late night visits and his cocky smiles. I want none of it. Or him.
I want the opposite.
All men.
Famous last words, right? You’re expecting some epic tale of reluctant love and my dramatic change of heart? Well, you’re not going to get it.
I’m stubborn. And headstrong. And I’ve just survived the worst three years of my life. After escaping an abusive boyfriend to live in hostels and cheap hotels while I worked my way across Europe, I’ve come to two conclusions.
The first? Now that I’m back home, I’m going to squander my expensive culinary degree on a food truck that caters to the late night drunk crowd.
The second? I’m going to prove to the bastard across the plaza that my street food is better than his fussy five course monstrosities.
Killian Quinn might be Food and Wine’s Chef to Watch Out For. He might have a Michelin Star. He might have every food critic in the city wrapped around his too-large fingers. But he’s also pretentious and unbearably arrogant and the very opposite of me.
So he can keep his unsolicited advice and his late night visits and his cocky smiles. I want none of it. Or him.
I want the opposite.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2017
About the author
Rachel Higginson
115 books3,483 followersRachel Higginson is the best-selling author of The Five Stages of Falling in Love, Every Wrong Reason, Bet on Us and The Star-Crossed Series.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,301 reviews
May 24, 2020
Review to come...
July 23, 2017
When a book gets so many five star reviews, and you pick it up expecting it to be spectacular, and then...
I bought this because it was on sale. And because a blogger was raving about what an incredible book this was.
I was expecting this to be a funny and sweet read. And it could have been if the first half wasn't so unbearably boring and repetitive. The heroine reiterated:
1.) How she worked in different kitchens and Europe
2.) How insecure she was
3.) How much she hoped her food truck wouldn't fail and
4.) Her failed relationship
so many times it was like I was reading the same paragraph over and over.
I wish the author would have gotten to the point from the beginning of this story and Killian was introduced and in more scenes earlier on. I liked the tension between the two main characters so I tried to power through it. But there was barely any dialogue and SO MUCH inner monologue I ended up skimming until an actual conversation occurred.
The only reason I kept reading this was because the author had some really good moments ...when there WAS dialogue. I really enjoyed their banter but sadly it was drowned out by all the redundant information and conversation broken up by the heroine's long winded thoughts.
This was def a flop for me.
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I bought this because it was on sale. And because a blogger was raving about what an incredible book this was.
I was expecting this to be a funny and sweet read. And it could have been if the first half wasn't so unbearably boring and repetitive. The heroine reiterated:
1.) How she worked in different kitchens and Europe
2.) How insecure she was
3.) How much she hoped her food truck wouldn't fail and
4.) Her failed relationship
so many times it was like I was reading the same paragraph over and over.
I wish the author would have gotten to the point from the beginning of this story and Killian was introduced and in more scenes earlier on. I liked the tension between the two main characters so I tried to power through it. But there was barely any dialogue and SO MUCH inner monologue I ended up skimming until an actual conversation occurred.
The only reason I kept reading this was because the author had some really good moments ...when there WAS dialogue. I really enjoyed their banter but sadly it was drowned out by all the redundant information and conversation broken up by the heroine's long winded thoughts.
This was def a flop for me.
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March 28, 2017
⭐⭐⭐⭐4 “Hold The Salt” Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
As readers and reviewers, we strive to get to that book that’s going to make us fall in love with these unattainable characters and keep us so intrigued, we forgo everything that will be a disturbance to our reading time. So when I was introduced to two characters that made me want to stay in their world just a little bit longer, I knew this was going to be the perfect read for me and I’m glad I took a chance on this story.
“You’re all mystery, Vera. Half-truths and bold statements, but you hide everything about you.
Vera has been through her fair share of heartbreak to last a lifetime. Deciding to start over, she’s now back in her home town gearing up for her new venture. Becoming a Chef has always been a dream of hers but one decision drew that dream to a screeching halt. So how do you move on from something like that ? You start your own business of course and make it in the form of a food truck. If that’s not the best idea you’ve ever heard, you’re obviously not normal.
They say opposites attract and that statement has never been more true especially when Vera meets the famous world renowned Chef and stubborn extraordinaire Killian Quinn. Swearing off men completely, Vera has made it her mission to avoid the opposite sex and focus on her business entirely. But when you have a tattooed up bearded Chef that knows he’s the sh*t, you know you’re going to be in some DEEP trouble.
Will these two be able to survive their own business without killing each other?
“I hate you almost as much as I hate salt.”
His lips twitched with an almost smile.
“You don’t hate salt.” He stepped closer. “And you really don’t hate me.”
I absolutely loved Killian and Vera’s dynamic together. These two brought out the best in each other and it showed through their work in the kitchen. They were inspired by each other’s creations, their chemistry was undeniable, and their banter was down right hilarious. Seeing that side of Killian was one of the highlights for me and I secretly wished that we could’ve gotten more of that from him and his POV. He was the epitome of a bad a**in the kitchen and I reveled in his softer side when it came to Vera.
Now my favorite thing about this story was by far the setting. I loved seeing Killian and Vera come up with their own signature dishes and how they developed a friendship first before anything else. Killian was very patient when it came to giving Vera the space that she needed and I liked the fact that he always encouraged her. If you’re looking for a completely different story that’s going to inspire you and make you dream big, Killian and Vera’s story is for you.
As readers and reviewers, we strive to get to that book that’s going to make us fall in love with these unattainable characters and keep us so intrigued, we forgo everything that will be a disturbance to our reading time. So when I was introduced to two characters that made me want to stay in their world just a little bit longer, I knew this was going to be the perfect read for me and I’m glad I took a chance on this story.
“You’re all mystery, Vera. Half-truths and bold statements, but you hide everything about you.
Vera has been through her fair share of heartbreak to last a lifetime. Deciding to start over, she’s now back in her home town gearing up for her new venture. Becoming a Chef has always been a dream of hers but one decision drew that dream to a screeching halt. So how do you move on from something like that ? You start your own business of course and make it in the form of a food truck. If that’s not the best idea you’ve ever heard, you’re obviously not normal.
They say opposites attract and that statement has never been more true especially when Vera meets the famous world renowned Chef and stubborn extraordinaire Killian Quinn. Swearing off men completely, Vera has made it her mission to avoid the opposite sex and focus on her business entirely. But when you have a tattooed up bearded Chef that knows he’s the sh*t, you know you’re going to be in some DEEP trouble.
Will these two be able to survive their own business without killing each other?
“I hate you almost as much as I hate salt.”
His lips twitched with an almost smile.
“You don’t hate salt.” He stepped closer. “And you really don’t hate me.”
I absolutely loved Killian and Vera’s dynamic together. These two brought out the best in each other and it showed through their work in the kitchen. They were inspired by each other’s creations, their chemistry was undeniable, and their banter was down right hilarious. Seeing that side of Killian was one of the highlights for me and I secretly wished that we could’ve gotten more of that from him and his POV. He was the epitome of a bad a**in the kitchen and I reveled in his softer side when it came to Vera.
Now my favorite thing about this story was by far the setting. I loved seeing Killian and Vera come up with their own signature dishes and how they developed a friendship first before anything else. Killian was very patient when it came to giving Vera the space that she needed and I liked the fact that he always encouraged her. If you’re looking for a completely different story that’s going to inspire you and make you dream big, Killian and Vera’s story is for you.
March 22, 2017
“He’s too familiar. I don’t want a guy like Killian Quinn. I want the exact opposite of him.”
I always know that I’ve found an all-time favourite in a story when I start missing it before I’ve even reached the end. There has not been one thing about this book that I did not adore—from the vibrant characters and vivid dialogues between them, to the perfectly paced love story that never eclipses the great message behind the author’s every word—and it only took me a few chapters to know that I had found a true gem. Stories like these are the reason I read—they are exactly what I always hope to find when I turn that first page—and I have loved this book from its first words to the very last. The story of a broken young woman finding herself again and regaining her confidence through her life’s greatest passion, this is an absolute top recommendation from me.
Continue reading this review...
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May 16, 2017
4 STARS
Well color me giddy, because I just found a new author to love. I love a good opposites attract story almost as much as I love an enemies to lovers one and this book combined both into one witty romance packed with plenty of feeling, charm, and swoon.
Vera bet everything on a man once...and lost. Now back home to lick her wounds and start over, leaving her potential dream of becoming a famous chef behind, she's starting from the ground up. She still has dreams of having her own kitchen in a fancy restaurant one day, but for now she has Foodie the food truck. Her brother is even letting her use the parking lot across from his shop rent free. The only problem? That problem is right next to one of the best and most well known restaurants in town. It's a restaurant where she would have loved to work, and also one where the kitchen is ran by the renowned and super grumpy Killian Quinn. World famous chef and notorious pain in her ass. Killian is less than thrilled about her food truck darkening the parking lot and he doesn't hesitate in letting her know...at every opportunity...what he thinks about it.
Sparks fly between these two from the very first insult and keep sparking hotter with each additional encounter. What begins is a hilarious back and forth that's had such a potent sexual tension beneath it that I thought I'd catch on fire with every page I read.
Now I love food, so I absolutely loved how engrained the story is in food and cooking. I felt like I was right there in the kitchen along with the characters. But beyond that, I simply loved the slow burn romance that starts as an unwilling friendship. These two seriously burned up the pages with their chemistry. So much so, that I didn't care that this wasn't my typical steam packed romance. It had just enough of a taste to satisfy but the budding romance is truly what took center stage here and I appreciated that so much.
The writing is witty and engaging and full of humor. The characters are phenomenally developed and full of depth. The romance is swoony and the story completely unforgettable.
I'm thrilled that this is the first in the series and can't wait for more. Especially knowing that the mysterious Ezra is next. I can't wait to see what happens with him and Vera's BFF. Or at least that's who I'm assuming will be the one to bring the grumpy millionaire to his knees.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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He’d told me I was bright, but not compared to him. He was the sun, and I was a flower turning my face to his heat. He was the stars in the clear summer night sky, and I was the stargazer mesmerized by the mysterious beauty I would never fully understand.
Well color me giddy, because I just found a new author to love. I love a good opposites attract story almost as much as I love an enemies to lovers one and this book combined both into one witty romance packed with plenty of feeling, charm, and swoon.
Vera bet everything on a man once...and lost. Now back home to lick her wounds and start over, leaving her potential dream of becoming a famous chef behind, she's starting from the ground up. She still has dreams of having her own kitchen in a fancy restaurant one day, but for now she has Foodie the food truck. Her brother is even letting her use the parking lot across from his shop rent free. The only problem? That problem is right next to one of the best and most well known restaurants in town. It's a restaurant where she would have loved to work, and also one where the kitchen is ran by the renowned and super grumpy Killian Quinn. World famous chef and notorious pain in her ass. Killian is less than thrilled about her food truck darkening the parking lot and he doesn't hesitate in letting her know...at every opportunity...what he thinks about it.
Sparks fly between these two from the very first insult and keep sparking hotter with each additional encounter. What begins is a hilarious back and forth that's had such a potent sexual tension beneath it that I thought I'd catch on fire with every page I read.
Now I love food, so I absolutely loved how engrained the story is in food and cooking. I felt like I was right there in the kitchen along with the characters. But beyond that, I simply loved the slow burn romance that starts as an unwilling friendship. These two seriously burned up the pages with their chemistry. So much so, that I didn't care that this wasn't my typical steam packed romance. It had just enough of a taste to satisfy but the budding romance is truly what took center stage here and I appreciated that so much.
The writing is witty and engaging and full of humor. The characters are phenomenally developed and full of depth. The romance is swoony and the story completely unforgettable.
I'm thrilled that this is the first in the series and can't wait for more. Especially knowing that the mysterious Ezra is next. I can't wait to see what happens with him and Vera's BFF. Or at least that's who I'm assuming will be the one to bring the grumpy millionaire to his knees.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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April 12, 2017
This was exactly what I needed at the moment – light and entertaining contemporary haters-to-lovers romance set in culinary industry (my new obsession). It was quick and easy read that didn’t require much thinking or concentration on my side.
If only heroine’s insecurities didn’t play the leading role in this book. Her constant inner complaining about how lacking she was in everything, what a doormat she was... it got very annoying after a while and I’m sad to say that it ruined overall enjoyment of the book for me.
If only heroine’s insecurities didn’t play the leading role in this book. Her constant inner complaining about how lacking she was in everything, what a doormat she was... it got very annoying after a while and I’m sad to say that it ruined overall enjoyment of the book for me.
April 8, 2017
3.65 -this is not a bad review because it's rated higher than average- Stars
The MC's in this story were perfectionist chefs who take negative reviews to heart. Watching and fully understanding how hurt they can feel about any criticism towards their food and craft, makes me feel like I gotta be super careful about wording my review, so that I don't have my rating misinterpreted as negative, because it's not.
Let it be known; that this review all comes down to my own personal preference and tastes. Using a terrible food analogy: Some people might dislike broccoli, and some people might absolutely love broccoli. Me myself; I don't mind broccoli at all, and can enjoy it like a champion. But no matter how amazingly cooked and presented broccoli can be; I just can't make myself luurve broccoli. And that's how I felt about this story. I enjoyed the way it was written and didn't hate anything about it, but because I've eaten so many variations of the same broccoli, it was what it was to me... just... broccoli. That analogy probably doesn't make sense to some, but if you're one of the few crazy ones who got it, then thank you for understanding.
After a slow and super detailed start; the banter kicked in and I really started enjoying myself. I would consider this a slow burn even though you can totally see the H's feelings growing for the h early in this book. The reason I'd consider it a slow burn is because I had to wait for 75% to get a little steam in the pipes! And we all know how impatient Jewelsy can get when it comes to nookie!
Told in only the h's POV and first standalone story in what looks to be a series. I would have really loved to read the H's POV in some scenes and would never turn down an opportunity to get my hands on a few of his bonus chapters in the future (hint, hint Ms Author). Will definitely be checking out book #2 when it gets released, cos I'm super keen to see how the H's BFF and h's BFF get together :)
The MC's in this story were perfectionist chefs who take negative reviews to heart. Watching and fully understanding how hurt they can feel about any criticism towards their food and craft, makes me feel like I gotta be super careful about wording my review, so that I don't have my rating misinterpreted as negative, because it's not.
Let it be known; that this review all comes down to my own personal preference and tastes. Using a terrible food analogy: Some people might dislike broccoli, and some people might absolutely love broccoli. Me myself; I don't mind broccoli at all, and can enjoy it like a champion. But no matter how amazingly cooked and presented broccoli can be; I just can't make myself luurve broccoli. And that's how I felt about this story. I enjoyed the way it was written and didn't hate anything about it, but because I've eaten so many variations of the same broccoli, it was what it was to me... just... broccoli. That analogy probably doesn't make sense to some, but if you're one of the few crazy ones who got it, then thank you for understanding.
After a slow and super detailed start; the banter kicked in and I really started enjoying myself. I would consider this a slow burn even though you can totally see the H's feelings growing for the h early in this book. The reason I'd consider it a slow burn is because I had to wait for 75% to get a little steam in the pipes! And we all know how impatient Jewelsy can get when it comes to nookie!
Told in only the h's POV and first standalone story in what looks to be a series. I would have really loved to read the H's POV in some scenes and would never turn down an opportunity to get my hands on a few of his bonus chapters in the future (hint, hint Ms Author). Will definitely be checking out book #2 when it gets released, cos I'm super keen to see how the H's BFF and h's BFF get together :)
April 3, 2017
****4 STARS****
This was the perfect light yet good read that I needed right now.
Review to come...
This was the perfect light yet good read that I needed right now.
Review to come...
March 16, 2019
I want to give this book 4 stars. The blurp is promising. A story of opposite attract. I am expecting a lot of scene that higlighting the opposite attract between Killian and Vera.
However what i found is a very dragging description about Vera character and how she attracted to Killian. His eyes, his voice, his handsome face. How traumatize she is about her past relationship etc. So where the opposite attract story? Even the cooking is blur and not enough to highlight the opposite character between Vera and Killian. I still manage to enjoy the middle of the book. But the beginning and the ending is just fall flat.
Btw, there is no descriptive sex scene on this book. And the story is told from Vera POV. Which makes it more annoying. I need Killian POV.
3 strawberry stars
However what i found is a very dragging description about Vera character and how she attracted to Killian. His eyes, his voice, his handsome face. How traumatize she is about her past relationship etc. So where the opposite attract story? Even the cooking is blur and not enough to highlight the opposite character between Vera and Killian. I still manage to enjoy the middle of the book. But the beginning and the ending is just fall flat.
Btw, there is no descriptive sex scene on this book. And the story is told from Vera POV. Which makes it more annoying. I need Killian POV.
3 strawberry stars
April 2, 2017
4.5 stars
Loved this book! Apart from making me hungry like hell(the main characters are chefs) this book has SO MUCH heart.
Vera opens up her food truck right across Killian Quinn-a famous chef from a famous restaurant. They start off as enemies, giving each other the stink eye and then soon become lovers. I LOVED the way the author wove their story- so simple yet real. Killian was the perfect guy for Vera, who was running away from her own issues. Killian was exactly what she needed at exactly the right time. This couple had me rooting for them from the beginning and when they finally got their jiggy on, it was fireworks. Highly recommended and I absolutely can't wait for the next couple's story.
Loved this book! Apart from making me hungry like hell(the main characters are chefs) this book has SO MUCH heart.
Vera opens up her food truck right across Killian Quinn-a famous chef from a famous restaurant. They start off as enemies, giving each other the stink eye and then soon become lovers. I LOVED the way the author wove their story- so simple yet real. Killian was the perfect guy for Vera, who was running away from her own issues. Killian was exactly what she needed at exactly the right time. This couple had me rooting for them from the beginning and when they finally got their jiggy on, it was fireworks. Highly recommended and I absolutely can't wait for the next couple's story.
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 17, 2019I got bored... it can't keep my attention, sorry... DNF it is!
June 4, 2017
5 stars for all the food recipes; this book made me so hungry!
But it was a pain being in the h's head, I almost DNFed the book plenty of times, only the food kept me going. The h was a doormat, with poor self esteem and a mentally/physically abusive stalker ex.
She was surrounded by good people though, including the H which made all the difference. In the end she became a stronger person with better options.
3 stars for the romance!
But it was a pain being in the h's head, I almost DNFed the book plenty of times, only the food kept me going. The h was a doormat, with poor self esteem and a mentally/physically abusive stalker ex.
She was surrounded by good people though, including the H which made all the difference. In the end she became a stronger person with better options.
3 stars for the romance!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2017
There are so many times when I read a book, and the heroine drives me crazy. At first, I thought The Opposite of You was one of those books. To my surprise, it turned out to be a really sweet story.
Vera Delane, was beginning her life again after escaping an abusive relationship. She had low self-esteem and was really struggling with what her ex-boyfriend emotionally did to her. So she is starting over and opening up a late night Foodie truck across the street from one of the top rated restaurants in the country. As you can imagine, the world famous chef, Killian Quinn, was not a happy camper. When they meet, Vera can’t stand the obnoxious, arrogant, and totally drool worthy Killian. So why is she looking forward to seeing him again or receiving any notes critiquing her food?
Even with the back and forth banter, Killian empowered Vera, helping her believe in herself and what she was capable of. I thought he was adorable the way he had no problem telling her his feelings for her.
Definitely a nice, sweet read that will have you smiling at the end.
Vera Delane, was beginning her life again after escaping an abusive relationship. She had low self-esteem and was really struggling with what her ex-boyfriend emotionally did to her. So she is starting over and opening up a late night Foodie truck across the street from one of the top rated restaurants in the country. As you can imagine, the world famous chef, Killian Quinn, was not a happy camper. When they meet, Vera can’t stand the obnoxious, arrogant, and totally drool worthy Killian. So why is she looking forward to seeing him again or receiving any notes critiquing her food?
Even with the back and forth banter, Killian empowered Vera, helping her believe in herself and what she was capable of. I thought he was adorable the way he had no problem telling her his feelings for her.
I knew it was my calling. (cooking) I’d found my purpose in life. And with you. I found you, and there was this tug to get to know you, to find out everything I could about you. I coundn’t ignore it. Hell, I didn’t want to ignore it. You were significant and important and right. You settled inside me like you were ment to be there. I found you, Vera, because I was supposed to find you.” ~Killian
Definitely a nice, sweet read that will have you smiling at the end.
May 6, 2017
3.5 - 4 ★'s
"You're meant to shine, Vera. I saw it the first time I met you. You shine so fucking bright."
Vera's been through a pretty tough journey trying to find her way back to just being "her". She's made her way back home since her father is ill and she's starting up her own food truck with a little help from her best friend, her father and her brother.
Her brother, Vann, lets her park her truck in his parking lot for free. The problem is that it's right across the street from one of the most popular restaurants in town...and one of the most popular chefs, Killian.
Killian makes it know that he's watching her - first with angry stares and then with some minor confrontations. He's soon sending over employees as spies to bring back her weekly food samples. He even has the gall to critique them and send the critique back over. It's pretty funny.
It's obvious they are both pretty smitten with each other. I would have loved Killian's POV...the absence of that is one of my main complaints.
Another complaint is the pacing. There is a l-o-n-g buildup, all about the food and them getting to know each other. There's some drama with Vera's ex and then we're already in the 80%'s. I wanted more of the relationship when they are actually together!
But shall we talk about the food? This book will make you sooo hungry! The author really gets into the food and seems to know her stuff. I felt like I was watching Food Network or the movie Burnt.
There's also a little "somethin' somethin'" happening between Vera's best friend, Molly, and Killian's best friend, Ezra, that is very intriguing. Their book, The Difference Between Us, is coming out July 25, 2017.
Overall, the dynamics in the cooking industry, the FOOD!, Vera and Killian's relationships with their friends and family and the bit of drama rounds this out to be a very interesting story that finishes very sweetly.
"You're meant to shine, Vera. I saw it the first time I met you. You shine so fucking bright."
Vera's been through a pretty tough journey trying to find her way back to just being "her". She's made her way back home since her father is ill and she's starting up her own food truck with a little help from her best friend, her father and her brother.
Her brother, Vann, lets her park her truck in his parking lot for free. The problem is that it's right across the street from one of the most popular restaurants in town...and one of the most popular chefs, Killian.
Killian makes it know that he's watching her - first with angry stares and then with some minor confrontations. He's soon sending over employees as spies to bring back her weekly food samples. He even has the gall to critique them and send the critique back over. It's pretty funny.
It's obvious they are both pretty smitten with each other. I would have loved Killian's POV...the absence of that is one of my main complaints.
Another complaint is the pacing. There is a l-o-n-g buildup, all about the food and them getting to know each other. There's some drama with Vera's ex and then we're already in the 80%'s. I wanted more of the relationship when they are actually together!
But shall we talk about the food? This book will make you sooo hungry! The author really gets into the food and seems to know her stuff. I felt like I was watching Food Network or the movie Burnt.
There's also a little "somethin' somethin'" happening between Vera's best friend, Molly, and Killian's best friend, Ezra, that is very intriguing. Their book, The Difference Between Us, is coming out July 25, 2017.
Overall, the dynamics in the cooking industry, the FOOD!, Vera and Killian's relationships with their friends and family and the bit of drama rounds this out to be a very interesting story that finishes very sweetly.
May 17, 2021
First read: 04/2018 - 5 stars
Second read: 05/2021 - 4 stars
I still enjoyed this book immensely, specifically the hilarious dialogues and all those amazing characters. What really got on my nerves this time around, though, and had me withdrawing one star, were Vera's excessive and repetitive inner monologues. Higginson sure loves to write those.
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Original review:
Yes. This. This is what a girl's supposed to feel like after finishing a love story. Smiling ear to ear, giddy with joy and a stomach full of butterflies.
I don't like the enemies-to-lovers trope. I'm bored by food themed romances. I'm incredibly hard to please when it comes to overly pushy, possessive alpha heroes. Usually.
Yet somehow, Rachel Higginson hit all my right spots with this book.
Beautiful, flawed characters. A genuine, realistic love story. An easy to follow yet engaging plot. Perfect pacing. Fantastic writing. I'm so in love with all of it, but most of all with the former.
Most of the time, it's the characters that truly make or break a book for me, and here they definitely made it.
Vera, broken but determined to recover her life after fleeing a toxic relationship.
Killian, the brooding, cocky, genius chef who doesn't trust easily.
Molly, Vera's best friend and one of a kind. I loved their precious relationship.
Vera's brother, Vann, and her dad, who would do anything for her.
Even Ezra, inscrutable and aloof, but oh so intriguing.
He’d told me I was bright, but not compared to him. He was the sun, and I was a flower turning my face to his heat. He was the stars in the clear summer night sky, and I was the stargazer mesmerized by the mysterious beauty I would never fully understand.
A slow-burn romance at its best. Blessedly low on relationship angst, no miscommunications, no OW/ OM drama, no unnecessary plot devices or fillers. And thus, all the more room for charming flirtations, hilarious banter, sizzling chemistry and sweet confessions.
This was sweet and funny and empowering. Thank you, Rachel Higginson, for finally breaking my bad reading spell.
(And just one more piece of advice: don't read this book when you're on a diet. I feel like I gained 10 pounds only reading about all those delicious meals.)
April 1, 2017
The result of a toxic relationship has left Vera bruised in more than the literal sense. She’s plagued with residual feelings of shame, and self doubt when it comes to her abilities and instincts as a chef. Months after fleeing to Europe, a family emergency has brought her home. Although an unwelcome return, it’s an opportunity for her to reconnect with her family and to rebuild her life.
It’s easy to admire a character like Vera, She’s extremely talented and has more courage than she gives herself credit. She’s also incredibly funny in an assuming way. She’s her own worse critic, but rather than being frustrating, it’s rather endearing and only gave me more cause to champion her.
With her career at the forefront of her mind, (not to mention her poor relationship record) she’s bewildered by her more than professional interest in renown chef, Killian Quinn. His restaurant is a stones throw from the location of her food truck, and he’s made his feeling on the matter more than clear. Her initial admiration falls by the wayside and what ensues is a hilarious back and forth of banter and “helpful” advice.
I so much enjoyed Vera’s journey of personal empowerment. Not to be outdone Killian was also a wonderful character to read. His encouragement of Vera was equalling heartwarming as it was romantic to read. Vera and Killian were a fantastic pairing and the perfect recipe for a highly enjoyable read.
Although a first time reader of author, there was no hesitation when it came to The Opposite of You. The blurb was tantalising enough for me to want to sink my teeth into, and the mouth watering prospect of an enemies to lovers romance perfectly complimented the more serious tone of the plot. Rachel Higginson served up a slow burn romance, with lashings of chemistry and a side of sass.
December 29, 2019
REREAD: 12/2019
REREAD: 3/2019 *Even more fantastic the second read. This book has the best of everything--enemies to lovers, witty banter, delicious steamy scenes, and emotional depth that is intensely satisfying.
Absolutely awesome. Vera was so relatable, her struggle so real, and her strength so admirable. And Killian was everything. Loved this book so much. I'll be rereading more than once without a doubt.
REREAD: 3/2019 *Even more fantastic the second read. This book has the best of everything--enemies to lovers, witty banter, delicious steamy scenes, and emotional depth that is intensely satisfying.
Absolutely awesome. Vera was so relatable, her struggle so real, and her strength so admirable. And Killian was everything. Loved this book so much. I'll be rereading more than once without a doubt.
May 12, 2019
This was a cute, fun read that I didn't need to think too hard about, which was just what I wanted!
I liked the banter, the romance, the food element, the friendships and I loved Vera's little family. I liked that it didn't shy away from serious, darker topics linked to Vera's ex boyfriend. Oh and Killian was hot!
Unfortunately, it was a little repetitive at times, and some of Vera's monologues were a bit boring and annoying. I was so glad when she stated standing up for herself, as it was heartbreaking reading what she had been through.
I liked the banter, the romance, the food element, the friendships and I loved Vera's little family. I liked that it didn't shy away from serious, darker topics linked to Vera's ex boyfriend. Oh and Killian was hot!
Unfortunately, it was a little repetitive at times, and some of Vera's monologues were a bit boring and annoying. I was so glad when she stated standing up for herself, as it was heartbreaking reading what she had been through.
June 12, 2023
A sweet, slow-burn romance between two chefs.
March 30, 2017
“You’re all mystery, Vera. Half-truths and bold statements, but you hide everything about you."
This was my first book by Rachel Higginson and I throughly enjoyed it! It is a smart, witty, feel-good, sexy romance. Vera is a talented chef who spent time in Europe to escape from a toxic relationship. She used to dream of owning her own restaurant, but she now does the next best thing: she opens a food truck featuring her very inspired food creations.
Vera parks her food truck in the parking lot of her brother's shop and it is directly across the street from a famous restaurant that employs the renowned Chef Killiam Quinn. Who is also famously difficult and temperamental. Killian actually sends one of his employees over to Vera's food truck to sample her creations and has the nerve to critique her techniques!
And so begins a classic enemies-to-lovers story that was completely engrossing and very well-written. No insta-love here! Instead the author treats us to an intense slow-burn romance with fantastic dialogue and very well-developed characters.
"I looked into his eyes, but it turned out to be a mistake. He was too intense. Too overwhelming. He was everything hot and exciting, interesting and new."
I love heroes main who are gruff, caustic and tough. Killian is a brilliant chef but he is closed off from forming an intimate relationship. While this might seem like a tired storyline, Rachel Higginson gives it a fresh spin and a very modern twist. The characters are all memorable and the dialogue is fresh and real. And I loved the whole idea of food truck vs. fancy restaurant - kind of a David and Goliath twist on this enemies-to-lovers story! Plus there is plenty of hot sexy times to satisfy every romance lover. This is a very original book, and I can't wait to read more from this incredible author!
"He was Killian Quinn, and he wasn't perfect. And I wanted to lick him from head to toe."
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
This was my first book by Rachel Higginson and I throughly enjoyed it! It is a smart, witty, feel-good, sexy romance. Vera is a talented chef who spent time in Europe to escape from a toxic relationship. She used to dream of owning her own restaurant, but she now does the next best thing: she opens a food truck featuring her very inspired food creations.
Vera parks her food truck in the parking lot of her brother's shop and it is directly across the street from a famous restaurant that employs the renowned Chef Killiam Quinn. Who is also famously difficult and temperamental. Killian actually sends one of his employees over to Vera's food truck to sample her creations and has the nerve to critique her techniques!
And so begins a classic enemies-to-lovers story that was completely engrossing and very well-written. No insta-love here! Instead the author treats us to an intense slow-burn romance with fantastic dialogue and very well-developed characters.
"I looked into his eyes, but it turned out to be a mistake. He was too intense. Too overwhelming. He was everything hot and exciting, interesting and new."
I love heroes main who are gruff, caustic and tough. Killian is a brilliant chef but he is closed off from forming an intimate relationship. While this might seem like a tired storyline, Rachel Higginson gives it a fresh spin and a very modern twist. The characters are all memorable and the dialogue is fresh and real. And I loved the whole idea of food truck vs. fancy restaurant - kind of a David and Goliath twist on this enemies-to-lovers story! Plus there is plenty of hot sexy times to satisfy every romance lover. This is a very original book, and I can't wait to read more from this incredible author!
"He was Killian Quinn, and he wasn't perfect. And I wanted to lick him from head to toe."
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
April 22, 2017
In a past life called my twenties I worked for a little known chef called Wolfgang Puck. This book took me down memory lane. Completely charming. Loved it.
March 30, 2017
Vera has a dream, to be a head chef in her own kitchen. For now though she has recently returned from Europe and opened a food truck in her home town. You gotta start somewhere right? Actually let's back up a bit so I can explain how she got to this place in her life.
Vera fell in love with a guy who was also building his way up to be a recognised chef. She thought that this would be something they would do together, creating their future. It turns out that he only wanted her to be the supporting actor in his career. He wanted the spotlight more and he was an arrogant, controlling arsehole. After two years she found the courage to walk away.
Vera spent a year travelling all over Europe, working in various kitchens and learning lots of new cooking techniques. She was able to sever the ties with her past and the work through the hangover effect of her ex relationship.
When someone in her family becomes ill she decides to return home and invest all the money she has into a food truck. She sets up outside her brother's business, enjoying the challenge of serving up really delicious food for the late night meal seekers.
The location of her food truck also happens to be across the road from a very popular Michelin star restaurant. Killian Quinn is the acclaimed chef and one that definitely has an industry reputation for producing incredible food. He is not particularly happy with having this new neighbour but he can't seem to stay away from her either.
When Killian and Vera meet in person it was like watching a movie when you just know that the all that chemistry between them is going to turn into something amazing. Vera's experience with men has not been particularly great and she definitely has sworn off ever dating a chef again. However, this cocky, arrogant man seems to be growing on her. Killian may be her biggest critic but in his own way he is also her biggest cheerleader.
The passion that Killian and Vera have for cooking simmers over into something that neither of them was expecting but it just feels right. Someone showing genuine admiration for her talent is not easy for her to believe in, it's like she is waiting for the next shoe to drop but Killian is helping her make steps towards a life she had only ever dreamed of before.
This is a fantastic hate to love story between two completely opposite people who find out that they are more similar than they realise. Another fabulous read from Rachel, who has further cemented herself as a must read author for me.
Vera fell in love with a guy who was also building his way up to be a recognised chef. She thought that this would be something they would do together, creating their future. It turns out that he only wanted her to be the supporting actor in his career. He wanted the spotlight more and he was an arrogant, controlling arsehole. After two years she found the courage to walk away.
Vera spent a year travelling all over Europe, working in various kitchens and learning lots of new cooking techniques. She was able to sever the ties with her past and the work through the hangover effect of her ex relationship.
When someone in her family becomes ill she decides to return home and invest all the money she has into a food truck. She sets up outside her brother's business, enjoying the challenge of serving up really delicious food for the late night meal seekers.
The location of her food truck also happens to be across the road from a very popular Michelin star restaurant. Killian Quinn is the acclaimed chef and one that definitely has an industry reputation for producing incredible food. He is not particularly happy with having this new neighbour but he can't seem to stay away from her either.
When Killian and Vera meet in person it was like watching a movie when you just know that the all that chemistry between them is going to turn into something amazing. Vera's experience with men has not been particularly great and she definitely has sworn off ever dating a chef again. However, this cocky, arrogant man seems to be growing on her. Killian may be her biggest critic but in his own way he is also her biggest cheerleader.
The passion that Killian and Vera have for cooking simmers over into something that neither of them was expecting but it just feels right. Someone showing genuine admiration for her talent is not easy for her to believe in, it's like she is waiting for the next shoe to drop but Killian is helping her make steps towards a life she had only ever dreamed of before.
This is a fantastic hate to love story between two completely opposite people who find out that they are more similar than they realise. Another fabulous read from Rachel, who has further cemented herself as a must read author for me.
March 30, 2017
I sooooooooo looked forward to this book because I saw so many positive rants and 5 star ratings.
I loved the way the story began and I had braced myself for a a hate to love scenario. I'll give credit to the author for making Killian a grade A asshole in the beginning. He was really good!!! And I was expecting an epic war between the two cooks. I was hoping for pranks, verbal lashings and lots more sparring between the two. But alas, it was short lived.
Because as they begin to be more civil to one another, and as the story developed, the heat seems to fall away for me. It didn't really get me hot and bothered one bit, I didn't feel the sparks anymore. And the chemistry between the two kinda fizzles out once they become friends. Mostly because of the heroine going on and on about all of her self doubt and insecurities.
And mostly, I found the heroine's inner dialogue repetitive and long winded. The same issues are rehashed throughout the book and becomes redundant. You could have seriously cut out 40 pages off the book because of the constant rehashing, albeit at times in different ways, the issues she's developed after being in a volatile relationship.
I am not declaring this a bad book. The story was great, it just needed a little more heat and lot less inner monologuing.
I loved the way the story began and I had braced myself for a a hate to love scenario. I'll give credit to the author for making Killian a grade A asshole in the beginning. He was really good!!! And I was expecting an epic war between the two cooks. I was hoping for pranks, verbal lashings and lots more sparring between the two. But alas, it was short lived.
Because as they begin to be more civil to one another, and as the story developed, the heat seems to fall away for me. It didn't really get me hot and bothered one bit, I didn't feel the sparks anymore. And the chemistry between the two kinda fizzles out once they become friends. Mostly because of the heroine going on and on about all of her self doubt and insecurities.
And mostly, I found the heroine's inner dialogue repetitive and long winded. The same issues are rehashed throughout the book and becomes redundant. You could have seriously cut out 40 pages off the book because of the constant rehashing, albeit at times in different ways, the issues she's developed after being in a volatile relationship.
I am not declaring this a bad book. The story was great, it just needed a little more heat and lot less inner monologuing.
June 25, 2017
4.5 stars
I adored this book and more than anything I have a serious crush on the hero, Killian. He's a grumpy, sometimes rude genius chef but this man is so wonderful through all of that. I had a crush on him early on and it just got worse and worse. This book is aided by such a likeable heroine, Vera. She was on a journey, finding her strength, self esteem and realigning her life goals. The chemistry was wonderful.
I adore the cover and the story lived up to it. I dropped it half a star because I just wanted a little more towards the end but I am mostly satisfied. I cannot wait for book two because Ezra and Molly are going to sizzle, I can just tell.
I adored this book and more than anything I have a serious crush on the hero, Killian. He's a grumpy, sometimes rude genius chef but this man is so wonderful through all of that. I had a crush on him early on and it just got worse and worse. This book is aided by such a likeable heroine, Vera. She was on a journey, finding her strength, self esteem and realigning her life goals. The chemistry was wonderful.
I adore the cover and the story lived up to it. I dropped it half a star because I just wanted a little more towards the end but I am mostly satisfied. I cannot wait for book two because Ezra and Molly are going to sizzle, I can just tell.
April 1, 2017
**3-1/2 Stars**
This was a slow-burn, sweet romance that I did enjoy--it just didn't blow my mind. I loved the heroine's funny banter with herself but disliked how much she put herself down, especially as the story progressed. And the hero seemed to go from asshole to sweet and caring at the drop of a hat, so I was never convinced and, really, never felt a complete connection with him. There were some great swoony moments--that first kiss (hubba hubba)--but I would have loved a bit more payoff in the romance department!
I think this is just one of those books that the opinions will vary greatly on, depending on the type of writing style you enjoy, and my rating reflects the fact that I don't ordinarily enjoy the slow burns. But I will say that after I saw who's going to be in the next book in the series, I definitely want to give it a try!
This was a slow-burn, sweet romance that I did enjoy--it just didn't blow my mind. I loved the heroine's funny banter with herself but disliked how much she put herself down, especially as the story progressed. And the hero seemed to go from asshole to sweet and caring at the drop of a hat, so I was never convinced and, really, never felt a complete connection with him. There were some great swoony moments--that first kiss (hubba hubba)--but I would have loved a bit more payoff in the romance department!
I think this is just one of those books that the opinions will vary greatly on, depending on the type of writing style you enjoy, and my rating reflects the fact that I don't ordinarily enjoy the slow burns. But I will say that after I saw who's going to be in the next book in the series, I definitely want to give it a try!
May 4, 2019
This book made me smile SO much. I loved Vera’s and Killian’s banter <3
May 22, 2020
Hat mir richtig gut gefallen 💕🥰📚
February 26, 2020
I loved it....it was the perfect safe/easy read that I needed!!!
July 6, 2017
Nice story about a chef and a girl who ran from an abusive relationship to start her career as a food truck chef. "Foodie"
I love broodie heroes and Killian was amazing.
I usually do not care for the BFFs, but I loved Molly. Everyone needs a BFF like Molly. She was just an amazing friend to Vera.
I loved all the secondary characters.
My only complaint was that I thought the closer with the ex-abusive boyfriend was a little too good to be true. Since he abused Vera for 2 years mentally and physically, I thought there would be something BIG that would happen. It all closed nicely.
I love broodie heroes and Killian was amazing.
I usually do not care for the BFFs, but I loved Molly. Everyone needs a BFF like Molly. She was just an amazing friend to Vera.
I loved all the secondary characters.
My only complaint was that I thought the closer with the ex-abusive boyfriend was a little too good to be true. Since he abused Vera for 2 years mentally and physically, I thought there would be something BIG that would happen. It all closed nicely.
April 11, 2017
This book was like falling in love slowly. I *adored* the first half - all I could think as I was reading was, "I don't want this book to end". Killian was definitely the highlight of the book. It was so great to read about a male protagonist that didn't beat around the bush- he was no bullshit and I appreciated that( didn't hurt that he was swoon-worthy either). ANWAY. My only complaint was that the ending felt a little bit rushed and didn't have the WOW factor. I still really, really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it to romance lovers!
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