I always love a story about a road trip or similar experience, add in lots of descriptions of food and you have a good mix for a great book.

There were some things I really liked about the story, and some that just rubbed me a little bit wrong. Cassie’s attitude towards James initially was a little off for me. I felt like she kind of took him for granted, though it seemed like he adored her. Her later observances while reading his journals were also a bit off for me. I did however, love that she wanted to continue his legacy.

I’ve never been a fan of someone starting a new relationship so quickly after the death of their partner, but that’s my own personal bias. It is over 9 month before Cassie dates anyone, but for me it just still felt too soon. That being said, I did like the chemistry between Cassie and Eamon. I also loved the relationships she formed with the other food writers on her trip, especially Ben.

Cassie starts the story obsessed with her job, dropping everything to run into the office at a moments notice. She doesn’t really have a life outside of work, aside from James. It was the discovery of James’s secret identity as a food critic that becomes the catalyst for her to make changes in her life. And the foodie trip she joins helps her to find herself and her true passion. I liked watching Cassie’s growth throughout the story.

James’s best friend David, however, was over the top and completely obnoxious. Honestly, what did it matter that someone started posting on the secret Instagram account after James died? It was a tribute to James more than anything else. The way he handled things was ridiculous. Though Cassie could have handled the entire scene better as well.

I liked that the ending did not provide closure. We are left to assume what Cassie’s next steps are. Normally I prefer less open-ended conclusions, but this one worked for the story.

All in all, I enjoyed this debut and look forward to future books by the author.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC for review consideration though NetGalley, on behalf of the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.