CATASTROPHIC EXPECTATIONS

A chef looks for love in all the wrong places in this foodie romantic comedy.

Gwen is a gifted chef with her own successful catering business in West Los Angeles, capable of whipping up a delectable Mother’s Day brunch right before having a steamy bathroom hookup with her client’s sexy brother. Still, the 30-something wants something more than quick, easy sex, and on the advice of her happily coupled employee Georgina, signs up for a matchmaking service and jumps back into the world of dating. As Gwen continues to cater engagement parties, surprise birthday gatherings, and corporate events—garnering lavish praise for her culinary creations along the way—she finds satisfaction of varying degrees with men like sexy Simon, who relishes playing hard to get, and Robert, whose devotion doesn’t quite make up for the lack of real chemistry. When Gwen meets Jack over the holidays, she thinks she’s found the one, but even after accepting his marriage proposal, she wonders why the engagement feels so empty. As Gwen proceeds to prepare fantastic food for the hungry souls of Southern California, she relentlessly pursues the idea that her soul mate is just around the corner, never losing hope until she finds love in an unexpected place. Francisco writes with authority about the ins and outs of catering for the masses, with inviting menus at the beginning of each chapter and tempting recipes for Gwen’s favorite dishes following the energetic tale’s conclusion. Unfortunately, the delicious details can’t divert attention from a story that feels like an early episode of Sex and the City.Though the novel seems to be set in the present day, no one appears to have a cellphone or use dating apps. While matchmaking services still exist, much of their documentation would likely be in computers rather than physical binders. In addition, Gwen is supposed to be a likable and relatable protagonist, but it’s hard to like or relate to her when she says things like “fat people scare me. They’ll just eat and eat and eat. They’re always the ones going for the ice cream and cake.”

A lively and well-intentioned romance that feels a bit out of date.