The Chef’s Kiss series by TJ Alexander is underrated. Reading Chef’s Choice only convinced me further of this opinion. A rom-com with two trans leads is a rarity in and of itself, and to have one that both made me laugh and plucked at my heartstrings (okay—I’ll say it, I bawled) as Chef’s Choice did is even more of a rarity. With a dramatic fake dating premise, characters you can’t help but love, a meaningful and nuanced incorporation of trans identity throughout the novel, and a joyful conclusion, Chef’s Choice has made its place on my favourites of 2023 already. As TJ Alexander said in the acknowledgments, this novel is a love letter to trans readers, and we’re so, so lucky to have it.

Thank you to Atria/Emily Bestler Books and NetGalley for an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.