Love on the Rocks by Maggie Deryn (ePUB) - A Review

Plot Summary

“Love on the Rocks,” the second installment in Maggie Deryn’s “Taste of Love” series, follows the ambitious American chef Callie McGinn. Driven by her career aspirations of opening a Michelin-starred restaurant in a major European city and achieving recognition on a “30 Under 30” list, Callie seizes an opportunity to open a new establishment at a five-star resort located on a remote Greek island. However, upon arrival, her dream quickly encounters unforeseen challenges. Her accommodations are a dilapidated ruin, and the resort’s management, particularly the enigmatic resort owner, Ares, proves to be a significant obstacle. Callie finds herself battling not only the physical and logistical difficulties of her new surroundings but also the growing attraction she feels towards Ares, a man who embodies the very resistance she needs to overcome to achieve her goals.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

“Love on the Rocks” is a charming and engaging read that successfully blends the allure of exotic travel with the classic tropes of contemporary romance. Maggie Deryn crafts a story that is both escapist and relatable, drawing the reader into Callie’s culinary world and her burgeoning relationship with Ares. While the core premise is familiar, the execution, particularly the vivid setting and the engaging character dynamics, elevates it.

Writing Style

Deryn’s writing style is fluid and accessible, making for a pleasurable reading experience. She employs descriptive language that effectively paints a picture of the Greek island setting, immersing the reader in its atmosphere. The dialogue feels natural and flows well, contributing to the authenticity of the characters’ interactions.

Character Development

Callie is a well-developed protagonist, showcasing a strong drive and a vulnerability beneath her ambitious exterior. Her passion for food is palpable, and her determination to succeed is inspiring. Ares, while initially presented as a formidable antagonist, gradually reveals layers of complexity, making his eventual softening towards Callie believable. The supporting characters, though less fleshed out, serve their purpose in moving the plot forward.

Literary Themes and Motifs

Several themes resonate throughout the novel. Ambition vs. Love is a central conflict, exploring whether Callie can achieve her professional dreams without sacrificing personal happiness. The motif of resilience is evident in Callie’s unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. The juxtaposition of old and new, represented by Callie’s modern culinary vision against the backdrop of ancient Greek ruins, also adds a subtle layer to the narrative.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of “Love on the Rocks” is generally well-handled. The initial setup effectively establishes Callie’s motivations and the challenges she faces. The middle section builds the romantic tension between Callie and Ares, with a few minor lulls that don’t detract significantly from the overall momentum. The climax and resolution feel earned, providing a satisfying conclusion to Callie’s immediate struggles and her relationship with Ares. The story is structured in a linear fashion, which is appropriate for this genre. The plot held my interest throughout, with the progression of Callie’s culinary endeavors and her evolving relationship with Ares keeping me engaged.

Author’s Use of Language and Imagery

Maggie Deryn demonstrates a knack for creating vivid imagery, particularly when describing food and the Greek island landscape. The descriptions of Callie’s culinary creations are mouth-watering, and the sensory details of the island – the scent of the sea, the warmth of the sun, the crumbling architecture – are artfully rendered.

  • Memorable Passage Example: “The scent of salt and wild herbs hung heavy in the air, a perfume as ancient as the stones beneath her feet, a stark contrast to the sterile gleam of stainless steel she was accustomed to.”

Emotional Impact

“Love on the Rocks” successfully evokes a range of emotions, from the initial frustration of Callie’s setbacks to the simmering tension and eventual warmth of her romance with Ares. There are moments of genuine connection and emotional vulnerability that resonate, particularly as Callie learns to trust and open herself up to Ares. The story provokes thought about the sacrifices individuals make for their careers and the importance of finding balance.

  • Moving Moment Example: A scene where Ares shares a personal story that sheds light on his protective nature toward his island and his resort, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy for his character.

Themes and Messages

The author appears to be conveying messages about the importance of passion, both in one’s career and in relationships. The novel also suggests that sometimes true happiness lies not just in achieving professional goals, but in embracing unexpected opportunities and finding love along the way. Deryn successfully conveys these messages through Callie’s journey and her evolving understanding of what truly matters.

Social or Cultural Commentary

While not overtly a work of social commentary, the novel touches upon the challenges faced by ambitious women in demanding industries. Callie’s determination to succeed in the male-dominated culinary world is a subtle nod to the ongoing conversations about gender equality and professional advancement. The setting of a remote Greek island also offers a glimpse into a slower pace of life and the potential clash between traditional environments and modern aspirations.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Vivid Setting: The Greek island location is a significant strength, brought to life with evocative descriptions.
  • Engaging Protagonist: Callie is a relatable and inspiring character.
  • Well-Paced Romance: The development of the relationship between Callie and Ares feels natural and satisfying.
  • Delicious Food Descriptions: Deryn’s passion for food shines through, making the culinary aspects a highlight.

Weaknesses

  • Familiar Tropes: While executed well, some plot elements rely on common romance genre conventions.
  • Secondary Character Depth: Some supporting characters could have benefited from more development.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend “Love on the Rocks” to readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a strong sense of place. Fans of stories that combine career ambition with romantic entanglement, particularly those who appreciate culinary themes and travel settings, would likely find this book very enjoyable. Readers who enjoyed other books in the “Taste of Love” series or by Maggie Deryn would also be sure to appreciate this installment.

Where to Get It

You can find “Love on the Rocks by Maggie Deryn (ePUB)” and other eBooks at My Ebook.

Overall Impression and Rating

“Love on the Rocks” is a delightful and well-crafted romance novel that offers a perfect escape. Maggie Deryn expertly blends culinary passion with a captivating romance against the backdrop of a stunning Greek island. The story is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most unexpected destinations can lead to the most rewarding discoveries, both professionally and personally.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars