Book Review - Under The Table ~ Stephanie Evanovich

‘Under The Table’ by Stephanie Evanovich

Genre: Romance / Contemporary

Published: April 16, 2019, William Morrow

Swathi’s Rating: 4.5/5

So I’ve been trying to share my thoughts on some of the great books I read in April & May (and they’re quite a lot really!) Good news is these books are out now for grabs at your favorite book stores and if you spot this book on your way, do not miss it!!

‘Under the Table’ is a cute and quirky contemporary romance that could bring a smile to your lips while you sip your wine and cuddle under the duvet. That’s exactly what it did to me!! 🙂

Next to come: A chat with Stephanie Evanovich

Enjoy the plot and lookout for my thoughts! Happy reading. xxx

Plot:

Suffocating in a dead-end marriage, Midwesterner Zoey Sullivan fled to New York and moved in with her little sister Ruth, a carefree, vivacious beauty with a string of eligible bachelors at her beck and call. Giving herself three months in the city to clear her head and find a direction, Zoey dodges calls from her ex Derek, and distracts herself by cooking and catering a few private dinners and parties. Pursuing her passion for cooking was never an option when she was with Derek, and now Zoey relishes her independence.

When Zoey’s meets reclusive millionaire Tristan Malloy, she’s blown away by his kitchen—a marble and stainless steel temple worthy of the culinary gods—and charmed by his impeccable gentlemanly manners. But despite his firm body, handsome looks, and piles of cash, Tristan—a computer programmer—is shy and more than a little socially awkward. Zoey is sure that Tristan has all the right raw ingredients—and she’s the right person to spice them up turn him into a delectable dish.

But Zoey’s unprepared for just how well her makeover works. Tristan turns out to be even sexier once he’s gained a little confidence and the right wardrobe. Beneath the gorgeous package, Tristan is a great guy who deserves a woman who really appreciates him. Slowly but surely, Zoey realizes she may have found her perfect match—but does Tristan even know how her feelings have changed? Is that warm look in his eyes gratitude for the new and exciting world she’s ushered him into, or something more? And what will happen when Zoey’s ex comes to town, looking to win her back?

Amazon

Swathi’s Review:

‘Under The Table’ is Zoey, who is on a break from her husband. She’s moved to New York where she lives with her sister. The sisters are not totally amicable, but they just have to bear each other’s presence during the short stay. Zoey’s sister is still close with her estranged husband, which creates quite a fuzz now and then.

Zoey has always been passionate about cooking, and after moving to NY, she tries to stay independent and establish a career as a caterer with a creative menu, without compromising her passion. It’s never easy for a single woman to cherish in the City and Zoey has had her bad moments. So, when she receives a call from a guy named Tristan asking her if she could cater for his upcoming party, she only has 50% hope that this could turn out into a good business.

Surprise waits for Zoey as she steps in to meet Tristan, who dressed in colorful clothes and living alone in a beautiful house filled with art pieces, was not at all what she expected to see/meet. Everything about Tristan is pleasantly new to Zoey’s world, including his profession as a hacker and his passion for dance and a queer eye for good food. But behind all these, Zoey sees a naive man, unadulterated by the cruelties of the world and wants to stay by his side as a good supporting friend.

As their friendship flourishes, so does Zoey’s feelings for Tristan who is now starting to get a taste of NYC lifestyle. As tristan decides to start dating women, Zoey’s feelings are confirmed but she’s just not ready to confess them. Yet. When she finally gathers the strength to win Tristan back, things are about to take a twist.

I fell in love with the characters and their professions soon after I started the book. I love a creative career and Stephanie Evanovich establishes equally intriguing storylines for both her lead characters. There are some yummy recipes to steal from this book and that’s just one reason I loved reading it! Loved the fact that their relationship does not have an unrealistic fairytale opening, but built on a rather relatable plot.

I read the book in one sitting, the storytelling was smooth as butter and the romance, contemporary and light. If you ever spot a gorgeous looking hardcover with the words ‘Under The Table’ on them, do not hesitate to pick it up as this book could be your next bedside favorite!

My sincere thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy of the book in exchange of my honest opinion and a chat with the author. She really is lovely and as creative as the characters in her books. Definitely adding Miss Evanovich to my list of favorites!

Author Bio:

Stephanie Evanovich is a full-fledged Jersey girl who attended New York Conservatory for the Dramatic Arts, performed with several improvisation troupes, and acted in a few small-budget movies, all in preparation for the greatest job she ever had: raising her two sons. Now a full-time writer, she’s an avid sports fan who holds a black belt in tae kwon do.