Title: Chef’s Kiss
Author: Jarrett Melendez
Publisher: Oni Press
Publication date: March 1, 2022
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Summary
Fresh out of college, Ben Cook is looking for that elusive full-time job. As an English major, he’s ready to find anything in writing or editing. However, after rejections come left and right, he’s getting more and more discouraged. Especially since his friends all seem to know which direction they’re going. Without the right work experience, it seems that no one will hire him.
When Ben sees an ad for a cook job at a restaurant, he takes a chance. The fact that the guy who gives him a chance, Liam, is cute has nothing to do with it. As Ben starts to fall into this new position, he starts to think that maybe this is the path he wants to take. But will his friends and family be supportive?
Review: Chef’s Kiss
Thanks to Oni Press and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this to review! Apparently 2022 is going to be the year of graphic novels and comics, which I have no complaints about. It’s pretty much all I’ve read in 2022 so far, and I’ve definitely found some great ones so far!
As someone who also graduated college with an English degree and struggled to find that full-time job, Ben’s journey is so relatable. As I think it will be for anyone in my generation. Especially as Ben gets rejection after rejection because they deem he doesn’t have enough work experience. If you’ve looked for any kind of full-time career position in the last few years, this will likely be relatable to you, too.
I also thought the romance in this was super sweet and not too fast moving. Ben and Liam have great chemistry on the page, and it’s definitely a kind of slow burn romance. Ben’s little friend group is also awesome, and I felt that most of the characters in the book were fully fleshed out. Despite the unsuccessful job hunt situation, Ben’s after college set up seems pretty nice!
My only complaint about this graphic novel is that it got really wordy at times. I think the writer might have thought that the cooking scenes needed a lot of explanation, but we could have gotten away with less words, I think. I found myself skimming some of the explanations throughout.
All in all, if you’re looking for a cute graphic novel romance to read this summer, definitely check this one out! Especially if you’re a recent college grad looking for that elusive full-time job. You’ll definitely find a kindred spirit in Ben.
4/5 stars