Second Chances in New Port Stephen by T.J. Alexander

Alexander’s romance confronts workplace discrimination, internal biases, and issues like transphobia and misgendering with ease. Publishers Weekly (starred review) “elicious… Alexander whips up a delectable couple with Ray and Simone they are each on their own journeys for self-awareness and self-confidence, which they gratifyingly achieve on an individual level. Named One of the 100 Best Books of 2022 by Time Magazine 'It’s hard to say what’s sweeter: the slow-burn romance or the drool-worthy descriptions of decadent desserts.' - Time Magazine “Alexander accomplishes a masterful juggling act: the banter is snappy, the chemistry between Simone and Ray sings, the commentary on social media fame is poignant without ever verging on precious, and the exploration of Ray’s nonbinary identity within the structure of a romantic comedy hits exactly right…one of the most intricate and satisfying queer romances in years. Things get even more complicated when Ray comes out at work as nonbinary to mixed reactions-and Simone must choose between the career she fought so hard for and the person who just might take the cake (and her heart). But the more they work together, the more Simone realizes her heart may be softening like butter for Ray. When Ray accidentally becomes a viral YouTube sensation with a series of homebrewing videos, their eccentric editor in chief forces Simone to work alongside the chipper upstart or else risk her beloved job. To make matters worse, Simone has to deal with Ray Lyton, the new test kitchen manager, whose obnoxious cheer and outgoing personality are like oil to Simone’s water.

All she wants to do is create the perfect loaf of sourdough and develop recipes, but when The Discerning Chef decides to bring their brand into the 21st century by pivoting to video, Simone is thrust into the spotlight and finds herself failing at something for the first time in her life.

Simone Larkspur is a perfectionist pastry expert with a dream job at The Discerning Chef, a venerable cookbook publisher in New York City. A high-strung pastry chef’s professional goals are interrupted by an unexpected career transition and the introduction of her wildly attractive nonbinary kitchen manager in this deliciously fresh and witty queer rom-com.

Second Chances in New Port Stephen by T.J. Alexander