Simmer Down sounded delightful the moment I read the synopsis! Upon finishing however, I feel like I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would despite it being an entertaining ride. I was initially excited about Simmer Down because I found out that it’s an adult rom-com novel featuring Filipino cuisine and the rivals-to-lovers trope, which are two things that I would have loved to see in a book! But what I thought was going to be an exciting and ultimately romantic read, lacked a couple of factors that would have made this a spectacular read.

Simmer Down follows Nikki DiMarco as she confronts the owner of a food truck who absentmindedly parked on her and her mother’s regular spot. She tries to be nice, but Callum shows her that he’s nothing but an asshole. What happens next though is a cat-and-mouse rivalry that goes viral, a food truck war, unprecedented sexual tension, the start of a casual relationship, the influence of social media, and more.

The writing was light and funny, and I liked that it offered a personal touch to Nikki’s perspective, especially when it comes to a few somber and emotional scenes. On the other hand, there was some dialogue that I thought were awkward, plus the overuse or “growl” and “howl” also felt perplexing for me. As a result, instead of the scene feeling romantic or sexy, I was only left cringing.

The characterisation also felt a little insufficient for me, especially when it comes to the two main characters. It’s as if I couldn’t get a better sense of their personality. Because of this, I also found their chemistry and romance quite off, so I wasn’t really rooting for them. Yes, their whole ordeal was entertaining, but I didn’t feel for them and I didn’t get invested in them. For me, this was such a shame because I love tropes like this. Rivals who learn to tolerate each other and then fall in love? I’m in! However, with Nikki and Callum, it just fell flat and I didn’t find their relationship much interesting.

On the other hand, I love the food truck life and the overall food scene in this book. As I read the story, I was reminded of the movie Chef (2014), which was such a great movie that I loved! All the chaos and satisfaction of being a food truck owner/chef? It was great to see!

Of course, I also loved that I got to see some well-loved Filipino dishes featured in the pages of this book, which had me craving them! I wish there was more of it though, and there were some parts that baffled me, such as the part where Nikki served deconstructed lumpia. For reference, lumpia is a traditional Filipino-style spring roll that’s usually deep fried. It’s a finger food that’s loved by all Filipinos. But the idea of a “deconstructed” version? It’s a no for me.

When it comes to the plot, it felt a lot like classic romcoms with those melodramatic scenes and grand gestures of love. I feel like some parts were predictable though, and the miscommunication trope was overdone. I kept thinking the main characters could have resolved a number of their conflicts by talking to each other and clarifying things, but clearly that wasn’t going to happen in the book. So instead, there were some misguided angst and foolish mistakes as the story moved towards the finale.

Overall, I feel like this was a decent read. It’s not entirely mind blowing, yes, but I think this will be a great choice for those who are looking for a fun, amusing, and romantic read.

Simmer Down is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of October 13th 2020.

Will you be picking up Simmer Down? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

In this finger-licking good rom-com, two is the perfect number of cooks in the kitchen.

Nikki DiMarco knew life wouldn’t be all sunshine and coconuts when she quit her dream job to help her mom serve up mouthwatering Filipino dishes to hungry beach goers, but she didn’t expect the Maui food truck scene to be so eat-or-be-eaten—or the competition to be so smoking hot.

But Tiva’s Filipina Kusina has faced bigger road bumps than the arrival of Callum James. Nikki doesn’t care how delectable the British food truck owner is—he rudely set up shop next to her coveted beach parking spot. He’s stealing her customers and fanning the flames of a public feud that makes her see sparks.

The solution? Let the upcoming Maui Food Festival decide their fate. Winner keeps the spot. Loser pounds sand. But the longer their rivalry simmers, the more Nikki starts to see a different side of Callum…a sweet, protective side. Is she brave enough to call a truce? Or will trusting Callum with her heart mean jumping from the frying pan into the fire?

The post Review: Simmer Down by Sarah Smith appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us if you have enjoyed reading any of them this year!

Natalie Tan’s Book of Luck and Fortune by Roselle Lim
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Lush and visual, chock-full of delicious recipes, Roselle Lim’s magical debut novel is about food, heritage, and finding family in the most unexpected places.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A big-hearted romantic comedy in which First Son Alex falls in love with Prince Henry of Wales after an incident of international proportions forces them to pretend to be best friends…

Not the Girl You Marry by Andie J. Christopher
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days gets a millennial makeover in this romantic comedy by USA Today bestselling author Andie J. Christopher.

Twice in a Blue Moon by Christina Lauren
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners and My Favorite Half-Night Stand comes a modern love story about what happens when your first love reenters your life when you least expect it…

No Judgments by Meg Cabot
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The storm of the century is about to hit Little Bridge Island, Florida—and it’s sending waves crashing through Sabrina “Bree” Beckham’s love life…

The Wedding Party by Jasmine Guillory
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

After an “oops, we made a mistake” night together, neither one can stop thinking about the other. With Alexa’s wedding rapidly approaching, Maddie and Theo both share bridal party responsibilities that require more interaction with each other than they’re comfortable with.

Meet Cute by Helena Hunting
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The New York Times bestselling author of Pucked and The Good Luck Charm delivers a Hollywood happily-ever-after where a famous heartthrob falls for his ultimate fangirl in this sexy standalone romantic comedy.

The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Distraught and desperate, Gavin finds help from an unlikely source: a secret romance book club made up of Nashville’s top alpha men. With the help of their current read, a steamy Regency titled Courting the Countess, the guys coach Gavin on saving his marriage. But it’ll take a lot more than flowery words and grand gestures for this hapless Romeo to find his inner hero and win back the trust of his wife.

The Orchid Throne by Jeffe Kennedy
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the Forgotten Empires magic is forbidden, dreams are destiny, and love is the greatest power of all…

The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Friend Zone will have you laughing one moment and grabbing for tissues the next as it tackles the realities of infertility and loss with wit, heart, and a lot of sass.

Waiting For Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Can a romcom-obssessed romantic finally experience the meet-cute she always dreamed of or will reality never compare to fiction, in this charming debut adult novel from Kerry Winfrey.

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Talia Hibbert, one of contemporary romance’s brightest new stars, delivers a witty, hilarious romantic comedy about a woman who’s tired of being “boring” and recruits her mysterious, sexy neighbor to help her experience new things—perfect for fans of Sally Thorne, Jasmine Guillory, and Helen Hoang.

The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Alisha Rai returns with the first book in her sizzling new Modern Love series, in which two rival dating app creators find themselves at odds in the boardroom but in sync in the bedroom.

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the critically acclaimed author of The Kiss Quotient comes a romantic novel about love that crosses international borders and all boundaries of the heart…

99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An unforgettable romantic comedy about a woman who finally has a shot at her long time crush—if she dares.

Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Proposal comes a dazzling new novel about a spontaneous holiday vacation that turns into an unforgettable romance.

Love on Lexington Avenue by Lauren Layne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne comes the second delightfully charming installment in the Central Park Pact series, following a young widow whose newfound cynicism about love is challenged by a sexy, rough-around-the-edges contractor.

Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym Martineau
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Fantastic Beasts meets Assassin’s Creed in this epic, gripping fantasy romance from debut author Maxym M. Martineau.

The Marriage Clock by Zara Raheem
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In Zara Raheem’s fresh, funny, smart debut, a young, Muslim-American woman is given three months to find the right husband or else her traditional Indian parents will find one for her–a novel with a universal story that everyone can relate to about the challenges of falling in love.

Faker by Sarah Smith
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Debut author Sarah Smith nails this fun and sexy multicultural romance where two office foes hammer out their differences to build a love that will last…

What was your favourite 2019 romance read? Tell us in the comments below!

The post The Best Romance Books of 2019 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us in the comments below if you will be picking up one (or several) of them!

Twice in a Blue Moon by Christina Lauren
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners and the “delectable, moving” (Entertainment Weekly) My Favorite Half-Night Stand comes a modern love story about what happens when your first love reenters your life when you least expect it…

The Play (Briar U #3) by Elle Kennedy
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A brand-new standalone novel in the New York Timesbestselling Briar U series! She’s the player he never saw coming…

Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Proposal and “rising star in the romance genre” (Entertainment Weekly) comes a dazzling new novel about a spontaneous holiday vacation that turns into an unforgettable romance.

Finding Home Again by Brenda Jackson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Bryce Witherspoon’s heart races every time she sees Kaegan Chambray. Everyone in town knows they can’t stand each other, but the truth is, even though the man broke her heart ten years ago, she still feels that irresistible, oh-so-familiar jolt of desire.

Seven Letters by J.P. Monninger
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

J. P. Monninger, author of the international bestseller The Map That Leads to You, the novel Nicholas Sparks called “romantic and unforgettable”, tells a poignant love story of the ways the world divides two souls—and the way that love brings them together.

Gypsy King by Devney Perry
Goodreads | Amazon 

The former Tin Gypsy motorcycle club has everyone in Clifton Forge, Montana convinced they’ve locked their clubhouse doors and ripped off their patches. Everyone but Bryce Ryan. There’s more happening at the club’s garage than muscle car restorations and Harley rebuilds. Her instincts are screaming there’s a story—one she’s going to tell.

Getting Played by Emma Chase
Goodreads | Amazon

Dean Walker is all about keeping life simple. He likes his love life simple too, enjoying the commitment-free hook-ups. Then he meets Lainey Burrows. One wild one-night stand was all it was ever supposed to be, so Lainey is shocked when she discovers that her sizzling summer fling is also her son’s new math teacher. But that’s nothing compared to the most unexpected twist of all—their hot hook-up left Lainey knocked up, and now they’re about to become parents. Together.

Faker by Sarah Smith
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Debut author Sarah Smith nails this fun and sexy multicultural romance where two office foes hammer out their differences to build a love that will last…

Lush Money by Angelina M. Lopez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A marriage of convenience and three nights a month. That’s all the sultry, self-made billionaire wants from the impoverished prince. And at the end of the year, she’ll grant him his divorce…with a settlement large enough to save his beloved kingdom.

Breathless With Her by Carrie Ann Ryan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Devin Carr likes his life. Then he meets her. Erin. As soon as he sees her, drunk and wearing a sequined dress as her world crashes down around her and she fights to put on a brave face, he knows what he’s been missing. Her.

A Lie for a Lie by Helena Hunting
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series comes a romantic comedy about instant attraction, second chances, and not-so-little white lies.

Down Too Deep by J. Daniels
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Fans of Christina Lauren and Colleen Hoover will love this sexy and emotional fourth book in the New York Times bestselling Dirty Deeds series.

Will you be picking up any of these romance releases? Tell us in the comments below!

The post October 2019 Book Releases: Romance appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

You’ll see titles from familiar and best-selling authors such as Helena Hunting, Meg Cabot, Cecelia Ahern, Christina Lauren, Jasmine Guillory, and Colleen Hoover—just to name a few! Plus there’s also quite a few authors making their debut this year including Zara Raheem, Jen DeLuca, Evie Dunmore, Melissa Ferguson, and more!

Read on to discover our picks and tell us in the comments what you’re looking forward to!

JULY

The Marriage Clock by Zara Raheem
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In Zara Raheem’s fresh, funny, smart debut, a young, Muslim-American woman is given three months to find the right husband or else her traditional Indian parents will find one for her–a novel with a universal story that everyone can relate to about the challenges of falling in love.

Under Currents by Nora Roberts
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For both Zane and Darby, their small town roots hold a terrible secret. Now, decades later, they’ve come together to build a new life. But will the past set them free or pull them under?

The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Alisha Rai returns with the first book in her sizzling new Modern Love series, in which two rival dating app creators find themselves at odds in the boardroom but in sync in the bedroom.

Making Up by Helena Hunting
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Cosy Felton knows just how to handle the awkwardness that comes with working at an adult toy store. Griffin Mills is using his business trip in Las Vegas as a chance to escape the broken pieces of his life in New York City. The last thing he wants is to be put in charge of buying gag gifts for his friend’s bachelor party. Despite being out of his element, and mortified by the whole experience, Griffin is pleasantly surprised when he finds himself attracted to the sales girl that helped him.

All It Takes by Kristen Proby
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby’s second novel in her Romancing Manhattan series delivers the sizzling story of a playboy who’s vowed never to commit until he meets the one woman he’s tempted to break his promise for.

All Roads Lead to You by Jennifer Probst
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Happily single, Harper Bishop trusts in only one passion—her rescue farm and healing her thoroughbred, Phoenix. Her dream is to lead him to the Triple Crown. But how unreachable is it without experience or help? A handsome new guest at her family’s B&B has what it takes to make it come true. And with his irresistible brogue, warm smile, and soothing touch, he’s a major distraction.

AUGUST

Playing House by Ruby Lang
Goodreads | Amazon

Romance blossoms between two city planners posing as newlyweds in this first in a bright new series by acclaimed author Ruby Lang.

Handle With Care by Helena Hunting
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author of SHACKING UP and I FLIPPING LOVE YOU Helena Hunting mixes humour and heart in this scandal-filled romantic comedy.

Playing for Keeps by Kendall Ryan
Goodreads | Amazon 

Get ready to meet your new favourite hot jocks in this series of stand-alone novels. If you like sexy, confident men who know how to handle a stick (on and off the ice), and smart women who are strong enough to keep all those big egos in check, this series of athlete romances is perfect for you!

Say You Still Love Me by K.A. Tucker
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The bestselling author of The Simple Wild and Keep Her Safe and “master of steamy romance” (Kirkus Reviews) delivers a sizzling novel about an ambitious and high-powered executive who reconnects with her first love: the boy who broke her heart.

Already Gone by Kristen Proby and K.L. Grayson
Goodreads | Amazon

New Hope, South Carolina is my home. It’s where I grew up, got into trouble, and fell in love for the first time. Scarlett Kincaid was more than the girl next door, she was my best friend, until she decided that small town life wasn’t for her. One minute she was here, and the next she was gone..

Kiss Me Not by Emma Hart
Goodreads | Amazon

As the reigning kissing booth contest champion, I have one goal: kiss as many people as possible to retain my dubious crown. But the only person I want to kiss is my best friend’s brother.

SEPTEMBER

No Judgments by Meg Cabot
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The storm of the century is about to hit Little Bridge Island, Florida—and it’s sending waves crashing through Sabrina “Bree” Beckham’s love life…

Postscript (PS, I Love You #2) by Cecelia Ahern
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When Holly Kennedy is approached by a group calling themselves the PS, I Love You Club, her safe existence is turned on its head. Inspired by her late husband Gerry’s letters, the club wants Holly to help them with their own parting messages for their loved ones to discover after they’re gone.

Well Met by Jen DeLuca
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

All’s faire in love and war for two sworn enemies who indulge in a harmless flirtation in a laugh-out-loud rom-com from debut author Jen DeLuca.

The Wonder of Now by Jamie Beck
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Peyton Prescott would give anything for the carefree life she knew before breast cancer changed everything. But instead of using her second chance to move forward, she’s stuck promoting the memoir her brother convinced her to write, thus reliving the very battle she wants to forget. If she hopes her European book tour will allow her to enjoy revisiting her favourite travel-writing destinations, she’s wrong: her PR whiz is too consumed with his own goals to consider her needs.

Love on Lexington Avenue by Lauren Layne
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne comes the second delightfully charming installment in the Central Park Pact series, following a young widow whose newfound cynicism about love is challenged by a sexy, rough-around-the-edges contractor.

Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A stunning debut for author Evie Dunmore and her Oxford Rebels, in which a fiercely independent vicar’s daughter takes on a powerful duke in a love story that threatens to upend the British social order.

OCTOBER

Twice in a Blue Moon by Christina Lauren
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners and the “delectable, moving” (Entertainment Weekly) My Favorite Half-Night Stand comes a modern love story about what happens when your first love reenters your life when you least expect it…

The Play (Briar U #3) by Elle Kennedy
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A brand-new standalone novel in the New York Timesbestselling Briar U series! She’s the player he never saw coming…

Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Proposal and “rising star in the romance genre” (Entertainment Weekly) comes a dazzling new novel about a spontaneous holiday vacation that turns into an unforgettable romance.

Seven Letters by J.P. Monninger
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

J. P. Monninger, author of the international bestseller The Map That Leads to You, the novel Nicholas Sparks called “romantic and unforgettable”, tells a poignant love story of the ways the world divides two souls—and the way that love brings them together.

Gypsy King by Devney Perry
Goodreads | Amazon 

The former Tin Gypsy motorcycle club has everyone in Clifton Forge, Montana convinced they’ve locked their clubhouse doors and ripped off their patches. Everyone but Bryce Ryan. There’s more happening at the club’s garage than muscle car restorations and Harley rebuilds. Her instincts are screaming there’s a story—one she’s going to tell.

Faker by Sarah Smith
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Debut author Sarah Smith nails this fun and sexy multicultural romance where two office foes hammer out their differences to build a love that will last…

NOVEMBER

Not the Girl You Marry by Andie J. Christopher
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days gets a millennial makeover in this romantic comedy by USA Today bestselling author Andie J. Christopher.

The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Distraught and desperate, Gavin finds help from an unlikely source: a secret romance book club made up of Nashville’s top alpha men. With the help of their current read, a steamy Regency titled Courting the Countess, the guys coach Gavin on saving his marriage. But it’ll take a lot more than flowery words and grand gestures for this hapless Romeo to find his inner hero and win back the trust of his wife.

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Talia Hibbert, one of contemporary romance’s brightest new stars, delivers a witty, hilarious romantic comedy about a woman who’s tired of being “boring” and recruits her mysterious, sexy neighbor to help her experience new things—perfect for fans of Sally Thorne, Jasmine Guillory, and Helen Hoang.

Inexpressible Island (End of Forever Saga Book 3) by Paullina Simons
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The third and final novel in Paullina Simons’ unforgettable End of Forever saga concludes Julian and Josephine’s heartbreaking love story that has spanned lifetimes.

We Met in December by Rosie Curtis
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Following a year in the life of a twenty-something American woman who falls hard for her London flat mate, this clever, fun, and unforgettable romantic comedy is the perfect feel-good holiday read.

Lethal Nights by Lora Leigh
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

#1 bestselling author Lora Leigh turns up the heat in her latest novel of high-stakes passion and persuasion featuring the men of Brute Force.

DECEMBER

Husband Material by Emily Belden
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Twenty-nine-year-old Charlotte Rosen has a secret: she’s a widow. It could never have been predicted that her late husband’s ashes would land squarely on her doorstep five years later. Stunned but determined, Charlotte sets out to find meaning in this sudden twist of fate, even if that includes facing her perfectly coiffed, and perfectly difficult, ex-mother-in-law—and her husband’s best friend, who seems to become a fixture at her side whether she likes it or not.

The Intended Victim by Alexandra Ivy
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The body lying on a cold steel slab bears all the hallmarks of the Chicago Butcher. Her delicate features are painfully familiar to Ash Marcel, once a rising star in the Chicago PD. But though the victim resembles his former fiancée, Remi Walsh, he knows it’s not her. Though Remi escaped a serial killer five years ago, her father died trying to save her. Grief and guilt caused her to pull away from the man she loved. Now Ash is back in her life, insisting that Remi is still in danger targeting women who look just like Remi.

Baby It’s Cold Outside by Dani Wyatt
Goodreads | Amazon 

Enjoy this holiday wonder with a grunty alpha, a kind-hearted girl trying to rebuild her life, and a whole lot of yummy sexy times under the twinkling Christmas lights. Always safe, no cheating, a little angst, and for sure a happily ever after for all.

The Dating Charade by Melissa Ferguson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Melissa Ferguson’s hilarious and warmhearted debut reminds us that love can come in very small packages—and that sometimes our best-laid plans aren’t nearly as rewarding and fun as the surprises that come our way.

Regretting You by Colleen Hoover
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An all-new romance novel from best-selling author Colleen Hoover.

A Madness of Sunshine by Nalini Singh
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh welcomes you to a remote town on the edge of the world where even the blinding brightness of the sun can’t mask the darkness that lies deep within a killer…

Are there any upcoming romance books that you’re looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Fall In Love With The Second Half of 2019’s Romance Releases appeared first on The Nerd Daily.