Restaurant Wars: A Sweet Small Town Romance (Emerald Bay Chefs Romance)

Nica Monroe didn’t exactly plan on being a thirty-something single mom — sleeping under her parents’ roof — subjected to their “helpful” parenting advice daily. She’s even less thrilled about her egotistical ex-boss claiming victory in their hometown’s upcoming high-stakes culinary competition—one that could change her life if she can just find the right partner. Enter Ethan Cole, once the shy nerd who worshiped her from afar, now a jaded Hollywood heartthrob whose every move makes headlines. Years ago, a clumsy teenage science fair accident ended in heartbreak, earning her a horrific nickname that went viral before “going viral” was even a thing. A decade later, he’s back in town with a reputation to shed and an offer Nica can’t afford to refuse—team up for the cooking contest, prove themselves to everyone who’s ever doubted them, and build a restaurant they can both be proud of. Easy enough, if they can keep their banter out of “shouting match” territory and their sizzling attraction to themselves.