**A delicious standalone novel**

A story too big to ignore. A second chance at love. Did the biggest lie of Leslie’s life drive away the only man she’s ever loved?

Leslie is an award-winning journalist who thrives on tackling NYC's most controversial stories. But at 37, she finds herself at the heart of an investigation that hits too close to home.

For as long as Leslie can remember, food has been the enemy. Something to avoid, not enjoy. When a relative challenges her perspective, she dives into the world of diet culture and eating disorders, only to see her own struggles reflected back at her. This revelation sets Leslie on a transformative journey to mend her relationship with food, her body, and the only man she's ever loved.

Chef Risto is a bigger than life personality who unapologetically lives life to the fullest. With his restaurant thriving and his culinary star rising, Risto has everything he’s ever wanted—except Leslie. Their past is a tangled web of unspoken feelings and unmet expectations. He dreams of her every night. But how can they build a future together when Leslie can't fully support his dreams?

When Leslie's cupid-of-an-aunt insists she fill-in for her at Risto's restaurant, their undeniable chemistry reignites. But can it overcome their complicated history?

Meanwhile, tensions rise as Leslie's investigation threatens her TV career. It forces her into an impossible choice: achieve stardom while living a lie, or embrace the truth for a second chance at true love?

In this compelling tale of self-discovery and romance, Leslie must navigate a world that demands she conform, while finding the courage to be true to herself and live her best life.