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I'll Have What He's Having
A smart, tender, vivacious romantic comedy about mistaken identities, the line between love and sex, and the way one night—and one person—can change your life forever.
When it comes to love, Farzan Alavi is a disaster. After his most recent heartbreak, he’s drowning his sorrows at Kansas City’s newest wine bar. Only instead of being crowded between strangers, he’s escorted to a VIP table for one. There, the hot sommelier does more than treat him to the meal of his life. The way he flirts with Farzan ignites instant sparks.
There’s just one problem: David Curtis thinks Farzan is Frank Allen, Kansas City’s most influential food critic. The truth only comes out after the two spend an unforgettably hot night together. Good news—both think the mix-up is hilarious. Bad news—David is studying to become a master sommelier and has no interest in a relationship.
Neither expects their paths to cross again . . . until Farzan inherits his family’s bistro and needs David’s restaurant knowledge. The two agree to an exchange: David will answer Farzan’s questions, and Farzan will help David study for his test. Only business turns to pleasure when neither can ignore the attraction still sizzling between them. But with David set on moving after his test, and Farzan committed to his family’s restaurant, how can their relationship last past the expiration date?
When it comes to love, Farzan Alavi is a disaster. After his most recent heartbreak, he’s drowning his sorrows at Kansas City’s newest wine bar. Only instead of being crowded between strangers, he’s escorted to a VIP table for one. There, the hot sommelier does more than treat him to the meal of his life. The way he flirts with Farzan ignites instant sparks.
There’s just one problem: David Curtis thinks Farzan is Frank Allen, Kansas City’s most influential food critic. The truth only comes out after the two spend an unforgettably hot night together. Good news—both think the mix-up is hilarious. Bad news—David is studying to become a master sommelier and has no interest in a relationship.
Neither expects their paths to cross again . . . until Farzan inherits his family’s bistro and needs David’s restaurant knowledge. The two agree to an exchange: David will answer Farzan’s questions, and Farzan will help David study for his test. Only business turns to pleasure when neither can ignore the attraction still sizzling between them. But with David set on moving after his test, and Farzan committed to his family’s restaurant, how can their relationship last past the expiration date?
384 pages, Hardcover
First published August 27, 2024
About the author
Adib Khorram
10 books1,700 followersADIB KHORRAM is the author of DARIUS THE GREAT IS NOT OKAY, which earned the William C. Morris Debut Award, the Asian/Pacific American Award for Young Adult Literature, and a Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor, as well as a multitude of other honors and accolades. His followup, DARIUS THE GREAT DESERVES BETTER, received three starred reviews, was an Indie Bestseller, and received a Stonewall Honor. His debut picture book, SEVEN SPECIAL SOMETHINGS: A NOWRUZ STORY was released in 2021. When he isn’t writing, you can find him learning to do a Lutz jump, practicing his handstands, or steeping a cup of oolong. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri, where people don’t usually talk about themselves in the third person. You can find him on Twitter (@adibkhorram), Instagram (@adibkhorram), or on the web at adibkhorram.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
August 21, 2024
This worked for me, so when it comes out next Tuesday please go get a copy from your library or bookstore of choice.
It was really refreshing to see people who aren't twentysomethings finding love. With Farzan in particular it was nice to see a main character who didn't have everything together, in some ways was just trying to get through life, but wasn't saddled with a collection of traits built to appeal to the quirky people among us. He wasn't a cartoonish stereotype of a person, he was just a person. David, had his shit together in a way that is maybe more typical of these kinds of romances, but it wasn't a flaw of his that he had to overcome in order to be happy?
After getting stood up Farzan decides to go out, a case of mistaken identity leads to him getting better service than he might've otherwise, which leads to a one night stand. There are a couple of plot contrivances to get these two back in the same room, but the fun kind you want to read about in a romance.
Some readers have commented on the amount of time these two bang it out... but honestly that worked for me. It worked for the plot for me. It built character and their particular dynamic in a way I think that sex scenes can.
Can I also say how refreshing it was to see characters having dynamic lives outside of their love interests again? Knowing that Farzan had friendships that he cared about, and a kickball team he was part of. Even the couple of scenes he got to have one on with with his siblings. David and Farzan's families also played a decent role in the way their lives and how they made certain decisions. David reconnected with old friends and had interesting relationships with his coworkers. These were fully realized people and that has been missing from the romances I have been picking up where characters seem to simply exist in a void.
And it was set in Kansas City, bonus points for that alone.
So Khorram was back knocking it out of the park as far as I'm concerned and I hope they continue to pump out romances on this level.
It was really refreshing to see people who aren't twentysomethings finding love. With Farzan in particular it was nice to see a main character who didn't have everything together, in some ways was just trying to get through life, but wasn't saddled with a collection of traits built to appeal to the quirky people among us. He wasn't a cartoonish stereotype of a person, he was just a person. David, had his shit together in a way that is maybe more typical of these kinds of romances, but it wasn't a flaw of his that he had to overcome in order to be happy?
After getting stood up Farzan decides to go out, a case of mistaken identity leads to him getting better service than he might've otherwise, which leads to a one night stand. There are a couple of plot contrivances to get these two back in the same room, but the fun kind you want to read about in a romance.
Some readers have commented on the amount of time these two bang it out... but honestly that worked for me. It worked for the plot for me. It built character and their particular dynamic in a way I think that sex scenes can.
Can I also say how refreshing it was to see characters having dynamic lives outside of their love interests again? Knowing that Farzan had friendships that he cared about, and a kickball team he was part of. Even the couple of scenes he got to have one on with with his siblings. David and Farzan's families also played a decent role in the way their lives and how they made certain decisions. David reconnected with old friends and had interesting relationships with his coworkers. These were fully realized people and that has been missing from the romances I have been picking up where characters seem to simply exist in a void.
And it was set in Kansas City, bonus points for that alone.
So Khorram was back knocking it out of the park as far as I'm concerned and I hope they continue to pump out romances on this level.
August 26, 2024
I’ll Have What He’s Having by Adib Khorram
Contemporary diverse M-M romance. Alternating POV.
At thirty-seven, Farzan Alavi thinks his love life is a disaster after his most recent heartbreak. There are times he thinks his whole life is messed up and going nowhere. He’s not particularly happy being a substitute teacher but what are his options? When his two besties aren’t available for a night out, Farzan goes alone to the new restaurant and gets a table for one. He’s surprised by the flirting by the hot sommelier but he’s free and single and goes with it.
David Curtis is told that a famous and influential food critic is at the restaurant and he offers up a supreme bottle of wine. The two flirt through dinner and more. It’s only the next morning, both David and Farzan realize the error but they’ve had a great night and laugh it off.
When Farzan inherits his family’s bistro, he knows just the person to call to help improve the wine list and make the restaurant a destination. But their fun can only be short term. David is moving to Los Angeles. And even though they both start falling in love, their future doesn’t appear to be together.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and an audiobook. The narration is performed by Shezi Sardar and Brent Billings who do a wonderful job with the emotional up and downs of the story. The passion, worry and heartbreak is all easy to hear and makes you feel like you are their friends and in the middle to the angst and love. I did increase the speed to 1.5 as that’s my most comfortable for reading along with a book at the same time and not be three pages ahead of the audio narration. The accents and voices really make these two men come alive. I’d highly recommend the audiobook version for this book.
Heartbreaking and sad as Farzan tries over and over to make the right choices. He’s confident in his cooking and manages the restaurant without a second thought, but doesn’t realize his impact. He knows he wants David to stay, but why would he? David has excellent prospects and a future in LA.
Don’t despair. It is a romance, but it’s going to take work and belief to come together.
I received this from book from NetGalley and the publisher Hachette Audio.
Contemporary diverse M-M romance. Alternating POV.
At thirty-seven, Farzan Alavi thinks his love life is a disaster after his most recent heartbreak. There are times he thinks his whole life is messed up and going nowhere. He’s not particularly happy being a substitute teacher but what are his options? When his two besties aren’t available for a night out, Farzan goes alone to the new restaurant and gets a table for one. He’s surprised by the flirting by the hot sommelier but he’s free and single and goes with it.
David Curtis is told that a famous and influential food critic is at the restaurant and he offers up a supreme bottle of wine. The two flirt through dinner and more. It’s only the next morning, both David and Farzan realize the error but they’ve had a great night and laugh it off.
When Farzan inherits his family’s bistro, he knows just the person to call to help improve the wine list and make the restaurant a destination. But their fun can only be short term. David is moving to Los Angeles. And even though they both start falling in love, their future doesn’t appear to be together.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and an audiobook. The narration is performed by Shezi Sardar and Brent Billings who do a wonderful job with the emotional up and downs of the story. The passion, worry and heartbreak is all easy to hear and makes you feel like you are their friends and in the middle to the angst and love. I did increase the speed to 1.5 as that’s my most comfortable for reading along with a book at the same time and not be three pages ahead of the audio narration. The accents and voices really make these two men come alive. I’d highly recommend the audiobook version for this book.
Heartbreaking and sad as Farzan tries over and over to make the right choices. He’s confident in his cooking and manages the restaurant without a second thought, but doesn’t realize his impact. He knows he wants David to stay, but why would he? David has excellent prospects and a future in LA.
Don’t despair. It is a romance, but it’s going to take work and belief to come together.
I received this from book from NetGalley and the publisher Hachette Audio.
May 18, 2024
2024 is the year of YA authors releasing adult books. And I’m not sure if I’m always a fan.
Don’t get me wrong. I really love some of these books; Kacen Callender’s Stars in Your Eyes is even one of my favorites. But I’m also wondering why all those authors want to write adult books and if the magical attraction I found in their YA stories also works in an adult version. I’m not convinced, to be honest.
Adib Khorram’s YA books are fantastic, especially the Darius series. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed for a third installment. I was over the moon when he announced releasing an adult book because I wanted more of his writing. And now?
You know, this book is nice, but not special, as I felt with his Darius series. It feels like mainstream MM; the only different angle is the Iranian heritage (which I liked) and the older characters (I liked that too; we need more of them!). I enjoyed reading this story, but I wanted more. More mental health rep, more character depth, more emotional connection. And less sex.
So, if you love lighthearted, well-written, spicy MM, this might be your book. But I was just a little disappointed.
Thank you, Forever and NetGalley, for this ARC!
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Don’t get me wrong. I really love some of these books; Kacen Callender’s Stars in Your Eyes is even one of my favorites. But I’m also wondering why all those authors want to write adult books and if the magical attraction I found in their YA stories also works in an adult version. I’m not convinced, to be honest.
Adib Khorram’s YA books are fantastic, especially the Darius series. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed for a third installment. I was over the moon when he announced releasing an adult book because I wanted more of his writing. And now?
You know, this book is nice, but not special, as I felt with his Darius series. It feels like mainstream MM; the only different angle is the Iranian heritage (which I liked) and the older characters (I liked that too; we need more of them!). I enjoyed reading this story, but I wanted more. More mental health rep, more character depth, more emotional connection. And less sex.
So, if you love lighthearted, well-written, spicy MM, this might be your book. But I was just a little disappointed.
Thank you, Forever and NetGalley, for this ARC!
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August 21, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
I really liked this! Given some of the reviews I was worried their relationship was going to be all sex and no substance. But while it is certainly a sex-forward novel, I did not find that to be the case.
I'll Have What He's Having is a gay romance written by a gay author, which I love to see more of in the genre. After a mistaken identity leads to a one night stand, an unexpected connection develops between these characters. Farzan is the screw-up of the family. His Iranian parents run a restaurant and his sister is married with a successful career while he's a substitute teacher who likes to cook. David is a wine expert studying for his master sommelier exam, and of course they meet at the restaurant he works at.
I really loved the mix of personal growth for the characters and the development of the romance between them. They have this amazing friendship, and get very spicy in the bedroom too. It's a really solid romance featuring characters in their late 30's, still trying to figure out life. I'm a fan! The audio narration is really well done. I feel like each of the performers nailed the voice and personality of the character they portrayed. I received an audio review copy via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
I really liked this! Given some of the reviews I was worried their relationship was going to be all sex and no substance. But while it is certainly a sex-forward novel, I did not find that to be the case.
I'll Have What He's Having is a gay romance written by a gay author, which I love to see more of in the genre. After a mistaken identity leads to a one night stand, an unexpected connection develops between these characters. Farzan is the screw-up of the family. His Iranian parents run a restaurant and his sister is married with a successful career while he's a substitute teacher who likes to cook. David is a wine expert studying for his master sommelier exam, and of course they meet at the restaurant he works at.
I really loved the mix of personal growth for the characters and the development of the romance between them. They have this amazing friendship, and get very spicy in the bedroom too. It's a really solid romance featuring characters in their late 30's, still trying to figure out life. I'm a fan! The audio narration is really well done. I feel like each of the performers nailed the voice and personality of the character they portrayed. I received an audio review copy via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
August 23, 2024
E-ARC generously provided by Grand Central in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!
4.5 stars. Bubbly as fizzy champagne and as familiar and heartwarming as a home cooked meal, I’ll Have What He’s Having is a delectable and surprisingly spicy adult romance from an author I continue to love.
4.5 stars. Bubbly as fizzy champagne and as familiar and heartwarming as a home cooked meal, I’ll Have What He’s Having is a delectable and surprisingly spicy adult romance from an author I continue to love.
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September 9, 2024This was compulsively readable, quite spicy as the kids say, and I just really enjoyed getting to know this Iranian-American corner of Kansas City. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
September 6, 2024
3.5
this was sweet!! adib khorram’s books are always very charming and this was no different!!
really enjoyed how each character had full lives outside of the main romance, with their own specific conflicts and support systems. also really enjoyed how surprisingly smutty this was!
that being said!! idk it kind of didn’t do much for me? it has a very traditional romcom story and story beats and it didn’t really have anything that wow-ed me but i still had a good time.
i hope adib writes more adult!!
this was sweet!! adib khorram’s books are always very charming and this was no different!!
really enjoyed how each character had full lives outside of the main romance, with their own specific conflicts and support systems. also really enjoyed how surprisingly smutty this was!
that being said!! idk it kind of didn’t do much for me? it has a very traditional romcom story and story beats and it didn’t really have anything that wow-ed me but i still had a good time.
i hope adib writes more adult!!
May 12, 2024
When you get a new Adib Khorram book, you know you have to read it asap. This is his first adult book, and as an avid romance reader, I was so excited to dive in! And I had an absolute blast, this was such a good time.
You can't read this without getting hungry, because all the food and wine descriptions made my mouth water. They added so much atmosphere to the story.
But I mainly loved the chemistry between both of the main characters, especially since we got to spend so much time with them! I love romance books where you actually see the couple together for a good amount of time, so this felt like such a treat.
You can't read this without getting hungry, because all the food and wine descriptions made my mouth water. They added so much atmosphere to the story.
But I mainly loved the chemistry between both of the main characters, especially since we got to spend so much time with them! I love romance books where you actually see the couple together for a good amount of time, so this felt like such a treat.
May 23, 2024
From first sip to last drop, I’LL HAVE WHAT HE’S HAVING is a richly characterized, sensual romance that celebrates gay men that, like the finest wines, only get better with age. Farzan and David’s sparkling connection will quench even the thirstiest of readers! I can't wait to read all the spinoff books for the core friend group.
August 23, 2024
I had a really good time reading this gay romance. I loved that the characters were in their late 30s and so it provided a different perspective to the usual romance. These main characters were more mature, settled and making reasonable decisions.....even at times, communicating effectively! I loved the well rounded side characters and the realistic depiction of how hard it can be to maintain your long distance friendships when you have a busy life to lead.
Where it fell down for me slightly was that there was a bit too much sex. It's all very well and good, but realistically, after the first couple of times, I didn't necessarily need to know all the details. Also, what I found slightly odd was that there were no issues from anyone in either characters life about them being gay. I suppose this isn't a negative as such, but personally I tend to enjoy romances more when there's some sort of a consequence to the fact that the main characters are queer, whereas here, one of them could've been substituted for a woman, and the story would've have been substantially different.
But that's just me, and it's a small thing, because overall it was a really good time. I listened to the audiobook and both narrators did a great job. They both had very distinct voices, which I appreciated as I immediately knew which pov we were in.
Can't wait to see what this author writes next!
Where it fell down for me slightly was that there was a bit too much sex. It's all very well and good, but realistically, after the first couple of times, I didn't necessarily need to know all the details. Also, what I found slightly odd was that there were no issues from anyone in either characters life about them being gay. I suppose this isn't a negative as such, but personally I tend to enjoy romances more when there's some sort of a consequence to the fact that the main characters are queer, whereas here, one of them could've been substituted for a woman, and the story would've have been substantially different.
But that's just me, and it's a small thing, because overall it was a really good time. I listened to the audiobook and both narrators did a great job. They both had very distinct voices, which I appreciated as I immediately knew which pov we were in.
Can't wait to see what this author writes next!
September 23, 2024
If you want to have a full sensory EXPERIENCE while reading a book, I HIGHLY recommend I'll Have What He's Having. There's so much delicious wine and food throughout this book, I was legit getting cravings. I added this book to my TBR because I was told it had a soup scene (AND IT IS AMAZING), but I'm so glad I read it because it's just such an incredible read. Low angst, a sweet contemporary romance with older MMCs trying to figure out their lives and their futures.
In the book, food and wine play an incredibly important role in the story. David is studying for his master sommelier exam - he's hoping to have a successful second career doing something he's passionate about and make enough money to help out his parents. Throughout the book he's always tasting and describing wine, and y'all, there is NO way I could do the stuff he does! Farzan is an incredible cook and takes over his parents' Iranian bistro in an attempt to finally be successful and make his family proud. Food is clearly a love language for him in addition to being a part of his heritage, and I loved all of the descriptions of the dishes he and his family make.
David and Farzan start out understanding that their relationship is a one night stand, but they enjoy each other's company so much, it gradually becomes more despite some reservations. This book was much spicier than I expected! I'll Have What He's Having is incredibly s3x and body positive, and it was nice reading about older MMCs who know who they are and just want someone that they can be comfortable with.
I listened to this one as an audiobook, and I REALLY loved it. The narrators are incredibly, and perfectly captured David and Farzan as well as all of their friends and family. Such a great read, highly recommend (though, have some wine on hand to drink while you read!).
In the book, food and wine play an incredibly important role in the story. David is studying for his master sommelier exam - he's hoping to have a successful second career doing something he's passionate about and make enough money to help out his parents. Throughout the book he's always tasting and describing wine, and y'all, there is NO way I could do the stuff he does! Farzan is an incredible cook and takes over his parents' Iranian bistro in an attempt to finally be successful and make his family proud. Food is clearly a love language for him in addition to being a part of his heritage, and I loved all of the descriptions of the dishes he and his family make.
David and Farzan start out understanding that their relationship is a one night stand, but they enjoy each other's company so much, it gradually becomes more despite some reservations. This book was much spicier than I expected! I'll Have What He's Having is incredibly s3x and body positive, and it was nice reading about older MMCs who know who they are and just want someone that they can be comfortable with.
I listened to this one as an audiobook, and I REALLY loved it. The narrators are incredibly, and perfectly captured David and Farzan as well as all of their friends and family. Such a great read, highly recommend (though, have some wine on hand to drink while you read!).
August 29, 2024
This was so soft. Both MCs felt real and relatable and the way their relationship unfolded was so great. It was the kind of book where I'd catch myself smiling dopily while reading. Low angst, high heat, and with a wonderful cast of characters. The side characters also felt very real and like people who added a lot to the overall feel of the story and who I'd like to get to know better. I really hope some of them get their own books in the future!
*ARC provided by NetGalley
*ARC provided by NetGalley
August 26, 2024
I’ve really enjoyed the YA books I’ve read from Adib Khorram, so I was excited to learn that he was publishing an adult romance! I’ll Have What He’s Having is a fun queer romance about characters in their late 30s finding love and figuring out what they want from the rest of their lives. The characters, Farzan and David, are both well fleshed out and brought different, unique points of view to the story.
The book starts out with a mistaken identity that leads to the characters hooking up. They very quickly realize what happened and are able to laugh it off. I was personally glad that happened right at the beginning, because I can sometimes get uncomfortable if so much of a romance involves the characters not being on the same page about their identities. After they figure out what happened they end up becoming friends with benefits. David needs someone to help him study for his master sommelier exam and Farzan needs David’s advice on how to run his family’s restaurant. So they decide to help each other out, in more ways than one. But what will happen when real feelings get involved? Especially since David’s plan has always been to move away after passing his exam.
Adib Khorram did such an amazing job at creating atmosphere in this story. There’s a lot of lush descriptions of food, wine, the different restaurants, and the chemistry between David and Farzan. Sometimes when YA writers transfer over into adult, their books and characters still end up feeling very YA. But I don’t think that happened here, I feel like the characters being in their late 30s and having more mature issues helped with that. All of the conflict between the characters felt earned by what had come before in the story, it never felt completely out of left field.
I listened to this on audio and I absolutely flew through it. The book is told in a dual POV and both narrators did an excellent job at bringing the story to life, conveying the chemistry between the leads, and fleshing out the side characters.
I’d definitely recommend this for people who love queer romances full of steam, heart, family, food, and personal growth.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts out with a mistaken identity that leads to the characters hooking up. They very quickly realize what happened and are able to laugh it off. I was personally glad that happened right at the beginning, because I can sometimes get uncomfortable if so much of a romance involves the characters not being on the same page about their identities. After they figure out what happened they end up becoming friends with benefits. David needs someone to help him study for his master sommelier exam and Farzan needs David’s advice on how to run his family’s restaurant. So they decide to help each other out, in more ways than one. But what will happen when real feelings get involved? Especially since David’s plan has always been to move away after passing his exam.
Adib Khorram did such an amazing job at creating atmosphere in this story. There’s a lot of lush descriptions of food, wine, the different restaurants, and the chemistry between David and Farzan. Sometimes when YA writers transfer over into adult, their books and characters still end up feeling very YA. But I don’t think that happened here, I feel like the characters being in their late 30s and having more mature issues helped with that. All of the conflict between the characters felt earned by what had come before in the story, it never felt completely out of left field.
I listened to this on audio and I absolutely flew through it. The book is told in a dual POV and both narrators did an excellent job at bringing the story to life, conveying the chemistry between the leads, and fleshing out the side characters.
I’d definitely recommend this for people who love queer romances full of steam, heart, family, food, and personal growth.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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August 25, 2024I’m about to have what they’re having 🤪
June 11, 2024
3.5 stars.
A beautiful queer story following two men in their late 30s, navigating life’s complexities and discovering love along the way.
I had a rocky time with this one. There were times I was bored and wanted to DNF but ultimately the beautiful community that surrounded our two leads motivated me to keep reading. Their queer friends and their lovely families added so much depth and warmth to the story. Farzan’s family, despite their flaws, were incredibly endearing. Seeing how they recreated a little piece of Iran through their restaurant and food in a foreign land felt truly cozy and healing to my Iranian heart and soul. I also loved David’s family and friends and how they pushed him because they genuinely wanted the best for him.
The relationship between Farzan and David is quite steamy, starting as a friends-with-benefits situation and evolving into a committed relationship. However, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy FWB plots, the romance didn’t resonate deeply with me, partly because the development of their feelings for each other wasn’t fully explored. Additionally, the characters, especially Farzan, often felt more like people in their 20s. I expected more emotional maturity from individuals pushing 40, particularly in their communication about their relationship, which ultimately led to the third-act breakup. While it is wonderful to read a romance between two people in their late 30s, some character choices and dialogues would have made more sense if the characters had been in their mid to late 20s.
There is no doubt that Adib Khorram is a talented writer. His descriptions of the food were so vivid that they made me hungry! I’m looking forward to reading his YA novels and hopefully more adult romances if he decides to write them.
Thank you Forever Publishing and Netgalley for this eARC.
A beautiful queer story following two men in their late 30s, navigating life’s complexities and discovering love along the way.
I had a rocky time with this one. There were times I was bored and wanted to DNF but ultimately the beautiful community that surrounded our two leads motivated me to keep reading. Their queer friends and their lovely families added so much depth and warmth to the story. Farzan’s family, despite their flaws, were incredibly endearing. Seeing how they recreated a little piece of Iran through their restaurant and food in a foreign land felt truly cozy and healing to my Iranian heart and soul. I also loved David’s family and friends and how they pushed him because they genuinely wanted the best for him.
The relationship between Farzan and David is quite steamy, starting as a friends-with-benefits situation and evolving into a committed relationship. However, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy FWB plots, the romance didn’t resonate deeply with me, partly because the development of their feelings for each other wasn’t fully explored. Additionally, the characters, especially Farzan, often felt more like people in their 20s. I expected more emotional maturity from individuals pushing 40, particularly in their communication about their relationship, which ultimately led to the third-act breakup. While it is wonderful to read a romance between two people in their late 30s, some character choices and dialogues would have made more sense if the characters had been in their mid to late 20s.
There is no doubt that Adib Khorram is a talented writer. His descriptions of the food were so vivid that they made me hungry! I’m looking forward to reading his YA novels and hopefully more adult romances if he decides to write them.
Thank you Forever Publishing and Netgalley for this eARC.
August 19, 2024
I’m glad the term tonic masculinity has been making the rounds, because this feels like tonic masculinity of the highest order. David Curtis, sommelier, mistakes Farzan Alavi for a food critic, and what blooms in the wake of this mixup is a tender, sexy, heartfelt romance between two grown adults who have to deal with the obstacles that a grown-ass relationship entails. Highlights include both of their wonderful friend groups, and coworkers, and families, jokes and mishaps during sex (!), the love letter to Kansas City (flaws included), and the rich Iranian culture, community, and cuisine of the Alavi family restaurant (my stomach growls).
Beautifully done, every bit of it—especially the miscommunication, which is the opposite of contrived and sparks growth and better communication. Favorite romance I’ve read this month, and on track to be one of my best-of for the year.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Beautifully done, every bit of it—especially the miscommunication, which is the opposite of contrived and sparks growth and better communication. Favorite romance I’ve read this month, and on track to be one of my best-of for the year.
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2024
3.5 stars
A very enjoyable story with plenty of steam, heart, delicious food. Certainly don't read this on an empty stomach!
The voices of the narrators really matched the characters, even if I had some trouble telling the two characters apart. But it's probably just a me thing. All in all, it's definitely worth a shot!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an advanced copy of the audiobook to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
A very enjoyable story with plenty of steam, heart, delicious food. Certainly don't read this on an empty stomach!
The voices of the narrators really matched the characters, even if I had some trouble telling the two characters apart. But it's probably just a me thing. All in all, it's definitely worth a shot!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an advanced copy of the audiobook to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 26, 2024
This is giving The Pairing a run for its money for the horniest book of the year.
September 1, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Publishing for the arc. This is a light, queer rom com, with two older (for romance) MCs and a lot of sex. Farzan Alavi is an adorable Iranian man who takes over his family restaurant after his parents announce their intention to close it and retire. A self-proclaimed disaster, his low self-esteem is relatable and heartbreaking. Whereas, David is a sommelier, studying for his master sommelier intent on getting the hell out of Kansas City after he completes his exam. Farzan doesn’t do casual, and that’s all David does. After a hilarious mix-up where David thinks Farzan is Frank Allen, Kansas City’s most influential food critic, the two hit it off and have a marvellous night together. It's supposed to be just one night, but…
I really enjoyed this, it’s light and fun, but with great depth and an at times too real exploration of the pitfalls of low self-esteem. Farzan, his friends and his family stole the show. While I enjoyed David’s POV his more insular lifestyle left his chapters less rich than Farzan’s. If you are looking for a diverse, steamy, queer rom com, look no further.
I really enjoyed this, it’s light and fun, but with great depth and an at times too real exploration of the pitfalls of low self-esteem. Farzan, his friends and his family stole the show. While I enjoyed David’s POV his more insular lifestyle left his chapters less rich than Farzan’s. If you are looking for a diverse, steamy, queer rom com, look no further.
September 1, 2024
I really, really enjoyed this mistaken identity, dual POV, M/M debut adult queer romance from fav author, Adib Khorram. Set in Kansas City, this book features David, a Black wine sommelier studying to become a master sommelier and Farzan, an Iranian American substitute teacher who David mistakenly takes for a food critic one night.
After a hot one night stand the two decide to enter a friends with benefits situation while David is still in KC but things quickly turn real the more time they spend together and Farzan has to decide if he wants to stay and take over his family's Bistro or follow David to LA.. This book was full of emotional depth, had excellent diversity rep, SPICY open door scenes and relatable, likeable main characters!
Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like M.A. Wardell and Timothy Janovsky, especially his, You had me a happy hour - which also features a want to be wine sommelier. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
After a hot one night stand the two decide to enter a friends with benefits situation while David is still in KC but things quickly turn real the more time they spend together and Farzan has to decide if he wants to stay and take over his family's Bistro or follow David to LA.. This book was full of emotional depth, had excellent diversity rep, SPICY open door scenes and relatable, likeable main characters!
Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like M.A. Wardell and Timothy Janovsky, especially his, You had me a happy hour - which also features a want to be wine sommelier. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
August 18, 2024
4 stars
Khorram's adult debut does not disappoint.
Farzan and David - and their burgeoning relationship - are at the center of this fairly uncomplicated but highly readable romance. One brings food and the other brings wine, and, well, the great pairing thing really does come to fruition in all of the expected ways. Their relationship is charming, predictable (but isn't that what romance readers are often eagerly anticipating?), and fulfilling. It also includes a healthy dose of intimacy, which, in its relative descriptiveness, is what most distinguishes this book from Khorram's earlier YA efforts.
I like these couples and enjoy the various side characters, and while this book doesn't show up with any earth-shattering material, it's a great representative of the genre.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Forever for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Khorram's adult debut does not disappoint.
Farzan and David - and their burgeoning relationship - are at the center of this fairly uncomplicated but highly readable romance. One brings food and the other brings wine, and, well, the great pairing thing really does come to fruition in all of the expected ways. Their relationship is charming, predictable (but isn't that what romance readers are often eagerly anticipating?), and fulfilling. It also includes a healthy dose of intimacy, which, in its relative descriptiveness, is what most distinguishes this book from Khorram's earlier YA efforts.
I like these couples and enjoy the various side characters, and while this book doesn't show up with any earth-shattering material, it's a great representative of the genre.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Forever for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
September 9, 2024
There's something about Adib Khorram's books that always pull on all my heartstrings in a way that feel a bit close to home (despite all the differences between and every single character on his stories), and it's safe to say that this book is no different.
Love the characters, their relationship and their journeys (both together and apart). I can totally see this book becoming a new comfort read for me and I love it for that too
Love the characters, their relationship and their journeys (both together and apart). I can totally see this book becoming a new comfort read for me and I love it for that too
June 26, 2024
Received from Edelweiss, thanks!
I enjoyed this one, though not as much as I was hoping to, if I'm being honest. I've really enjoyed Adib Khorram's YA books (I've read all but one of them), so was really excited for this one. And it was okay.
It's interesting, the idea of spice in adult romance. Some friends and I have been discussing this lately, mostly to do with books being specifically marketed as "spicy". One particular author has been leaning into this hard lately and to be completely honest, it's incredibly offputting. If the sex in the book makes sense, absolutely include it. I am totally here for spicy romance, but not when the spice is the whole selling package. And I've seen I'll Have What He's Having being marketed as "spicy". And, it is... But I honestly felt like at least half of the sex scenes could have either been fade to black or closed door or left out completely. I have no idea about Khorram's writing process, but the book felt like he'd written it one way and then was told that it needed to be more spicy, so he added more spice. I could be completely off base here, but for me, a lot of the sex scenes just didn't fit the overall story.
And overall, I did enjoy the story! I liked the two MCs, I liked ALL the food and wine. I may currently have out a Persian cookbook from the library that is specifically mentioned in this book, so that I can try out some of the mouthwatering sounding dishes that are described. There was a lot of fun in the book, which I always appreciate. I also liked how the relationship evolved between Farzan and David, and how the third act breakup was resolved; I thought that was really well done in a thoughtful and realistic manner.
One other thing that I didn't love was how down on himself Farzan is throughout the whole book. He constantly refers to himself as a fuck up and it just got to be a lot after a while. I think Khorram was trying to illustrate how Farzan's family showed their love for him by being critical, and it didn't really work? Or, there was too much criticism and not enough apologizing/recognizing the harm they had done to offset the amount of criticizing they did.
Again, I did enjoy the book, but there were definitely aspects that did not work for me.
I enjoyed this one, though not as much as I was hoping to, if I'm being honest. I've really enjoyed Adib Khorram's YA books (I've read all but one of them), so was really excited for this one. And it was okay.
It's interesting, the idea of spice in adult romance. Some friends and I have been discussing this lately, mostly to do with books being specifically marketed as "spicy". One particular author has been leaning into this hard lately and to be completely honest, it's incredibly offputting. If the sex in the book makes sense, absolutely include it. I am totally here for spicy romance, but not when the spice is the whole selling package. And I've seen I'll Have What He's Having being marketed as "spicy". And, it is... But I honestly felt like at least half of the sex scenes could have either been fade to black or closed door or left out completely. I have no idea about Khorram's writing process, but the book felt like he'd written it one way and then was told that it needed to be more spicy, so he added more spice. I could be completely off base here, but for me, a lot of the sex scenes just didn't fit the overall story.
And overall, I did enjoy the story! I liked the two MCs, I liked ALL the food and wine. I may currently have out a Persian cookbook from the library that is specifically mentioned in this book, so that I can try out some of the mouthwatering sounding dishes that are described. There was a lot of fun in the book, which I always appreciate. I also liked how the relationship evolved between Farzan and David, and how the third act breakup was resolved; I thought that was really well done in a thoughtful and realistic manner.
One other thing that I didn't love was how down on himself Farzan is throughout the whole book. He constantly refers to himself as a fuck up and it just got to be a lot after a while. I think Khorram was trying to illustrate how Farzan's family showed their love for him by being critical, and it didn't really work? Or, there was too much criticism and not enough apologizing/recognizing the harm they had done to offset the amount of criticizing they did.
Again, I did enjoy the book, but there were definitely aspects that did not work for me.
August 29, 2024
I loved this book! It was fun and sexy and emotional. Did I spend a good portion of the last 20% yelling at David and Farzan to just talk to each other? Yes, I did. Because they really needed to talk, and both were so wrapped up in their own heads. But isn't that how it is sometimes? Your emotions and anxieties are so big that any attempt to make them make sense by talking them out seems unreasonably burdensome. They figure out, because of course, they do.
Separate from the romance, though, David's and Farzan's individual arcs of restructuring dreams and self-esteem/self-compassion were resonant. So many people think they want a particular kind of life, and work toward that goal, only to realize that it isn't what they really want at all. David's arc shows that dreams change and it is never too late. Farzan needing a little bit of help (ok a lot) seeing past his own "shortcomings" is true to life as well. Happiness and fulfillment are not a destination, they are part of the journey, and it can be hard to bask in those after years of teasing that should be fun but isn't and romantic relationships that always end in tears. Romance and personal growth can go hand in hand. We don't build ourselves in a vacuum, separate from other people, and this book really showed that.
Also posted on Netgalley
Separate from the romance, though, David's and Farzan's individual arcs of restructuring dreams and self-esteem/self-compassion were resonant. So many people think they want a particular kind of life, and work toward that goal, only to realize that it isn't what they really want at all. David's arc shows that dreams change and it is never too late. Farzan needing a little bit of help (ok a lot) seeing past his own "shortcomings" is true to life as well. Happiness and fulfillment are not a destination, they are part of the journey, and it can be hard to bask in those after years of teasing that should be fun but isn't and romantic relationships that always end in tears. Romance and personal growth can go hand in hand. We don't build ourselves in a vacuum, separate from other people, and this book really showed that.
Also posted on Netgalley
July 13, 2024
You know when you watch a Studio Ghibli movie and all you want to do is eat all the animated food, well reading this was exactly like that. Seriously, do not read this on an empty stomach.
I’ll Have What He’s Having follows a sort of friends with benefits situation between Farzan, a new restaurateur, and David, an aspiring sommelier, when a miscommunication results in them hitting it off.
Adib Khorram always knocks it out of the park in terms of diversity and representation. This book was filled with so many different identities, which I really appreciated and made it feel more authentic and realistic. I always walk away from his books learning so much about Persian culture.
Farzan and his friends were probably my favorite part of this book. I enjoyed the bond that all of them had and their overall dynamic (please give me spin offs with each of them as the lead). Farzan overall felt like the most developed character in the story. I liked exploring his relationship with his family and how important his culture is to him. David unfortunately fell a little flat for me, I didn’t feel as connected to him both in and out of his relationship with Farzan. I wish his personality would’ve been expanded on a bit more.
Unfortunately, while reading this I solidified my feelings in that I’m just not a massive fan of friends with benefits storylines. The relationships end up lacking chemistry resulting in me not really rooting for them. This book was also quite fast burn whereas I typically like a longer build up of feelings and a relationship, but alas these are just personal preferences.
This book was sweet and spicy but I just couldn’t help but feel it was missing a little bit of something. It didn’t seem to have the same charm and emotional punch that his YA works tend to have but I’m still excited to see what else the future holds for Adib Khorram. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for providing me with this ARC.
I’ll Have What He’s Having follows a sort of friends with benefits situation between Farzan, a new restaurateur, and David, an aspiring sommelier, when a miscommunication results in them hitting it off.
Adib Khorram always knocks it out of the park in terms of diversity and representation. This book was filled with so many different identities, which I really appreciated and made it feel more authentic and realistic. I always walk away from his books learning so much about Persian culture.
Farzan and his friends were probably my favorite part of this book. I enjoyed the bond that all of them had and their overall dynamic (please give me spin offs with each of them as the lead). Farzan overall felt like the most developed character in the story. I liked exploring his relationship with his family and how important his culture is to him. David unfortunately fell a little flat for me, I didn’t feel as connected to him both in and out of his relationship with Farzan. I wish his personality would’ve been expanded on a bit more.
Unfortunately, while reading this I solidified my feelings in that I’m just not a massive fan of friends with benefits storylines. The relationships end up lacking chemistry resulting in me not really rooting for them. This book was also quite fast burn whereas I typically like a longer build up of feelings and a relationship, but alas these are just personal preferences.
This book was sweet and spicy but I just couldn’t help but feel it was missing a little bit of something. It didn’t seem to have the same charm and emotional punch that his YA works tend to have but I’m still excited to see what else the future holds for Adib Khorram. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for providing me with this ARC.
September 3, 2024
3.5 - This was such a cute LGBTQ+ romance and it was STEAMY!! Maybe a little bit too steamy for me, but if you love spice in books and want a good romcom this will definitely be perfect for you.
Farzan's love life is falling apart as he once again failed to get a boyfriend on his last date. Farzan goes to David's restaurant, where David is a wine expert, and after pretending to be a restaurant critic, David spends the night trying to woo Farzan into liking the food and drink. The two hit it off, and quickly begin hooking up. It is clear from the start that Farzan and David have chemistry, and also that both are very into each other and developing feelings fast, although neither wants to admit it. At the time, David is too busy studying for his Somalia test to make time for a relationship, although they establish a friends with benefits relationship as an excuse to keep seeing each other.
I loved the focus on family and food in this book! It was so pure to see Farzan's love for cooking and his families restaurant, and David's love and passion for wine come to life. As Farzan begins to take over and expand his families restaurant and David prepares to take his test and move to a new city, the two have to decide whether they are ready to sacrifice what they once thought were their dreams to be with each other, or ignore the feelings they have developed. Their relationship was so cute and heartfelt, I loved how they supported each other and helped each other through their different challenges! And the chemistry was great :)
Thank you to Forever Pub and Netgalley for providing me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Farzan's love life is falling apart as he once again failed to get a boyfriend on his last date. Farzan goes to David's restaurant, where David is a wine expert, and after pretending to be a restaurant critic, David spends the night trying to woo Farzan into liking the food and drink. The two hit it off, and quickly begin hooking up. It is clear from the start that Farzan and David have chemistry, and also that both are very into each other and developing feelings fast, although neither wants to admit it. At the time, David is too busy studying for his Somalia test to make time for a relationship, although they establish a friends with benefits relationship as an excuse to keep seeing each other.
I loved the focus on family and food in this book! It was so pure to see Farzan's love for cooking and his families restaurant, and David's love and passion for wine come to life. As Farzan begins to take over and expand his families restaurant and David prepares to take his test and move to a new city, the two have to decide whether they are ready to sacrifice what they once thought were their dreams to be with each other, or ignore the feelings they have developed. Their relationship was so cute and heartfelt, I loved how they supported each other and helped each other through their different challenges! And the chemistry was great :)
Thank you to Forever Pub and Netgalley for providing me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Read
September 2, 2024I will pick up everything by Adib Khorram. "I'll Have..." embodies the same great writing, engaging settings, and richly appealing characters as the previous FOUR Khorram novels I've read this year. And I love the wider range that this Adult rather than YA novel provides the characters and story. It is purely down to me and my genre/premise preferences that I'm DNFing at 36%. I'm onboard with the characters, the wine tasting and Iranian cooking-centric world they inhabit, and I'm rooting for their happy ending. But any story where a never-casual/no-friends-with-benfits person talks themself into trying that dynamic with someone that they are clearly already falling for just isn't a story I'll be able to enjoy. It's a believable and understandable premise; it's just too frustrating a story line for me to want to read, even with happy ending guaranteed. But there's plenty to love here. It's just not a storyline for me to see to the finish.
August 29, 2024
Full review on my blog!
This completely indulgent book was exactly the romance I was looking for.
4.5 stars to this delectable romance!
Farzan has had a rocky few years. After dreaming of becoming a teacher for most his life, he burned out and quit. Now, he works as a substitute teacher and feels like he can't live up to his amazing siblings. And after a long string of bad boyfriends, his love life isn't looking so hot either. David recently moved back to Kansas City from Chicago, but he is planning to take his sommelier exam which will allow him to get a job essentially wherever he wants. Neither of them are looking for a relationship, but they can't deny their amazing chemistry. They might be able to help each other and have some fun on the side.
I'll Have What He's Having adds to the growing canon of queer books set in the United States Midwest. We are familiar with queer books set in New York City or LA, but the reality is that plenty of queer people do live in the Midwest, and there are thriving queer communities there. It was incredibly refreshing to see that when David struggles over whether or not he should move to California, queer acceptance does not have to be part of the conversation. It is instead just the more traditional struggle of dream job vs dream person.
In general, I loved that I'll Have What He's Having realistically depicted what the life of a queer person in their 30s might look like. Farzan has a really tight group of queer friends, but they are also at different stages in their careers and love lives. His friends play on a queer kickball team, a surprisingly common activity that is easy to brush off as lame, but which is actually a great community builder. On the other hand, David has fell out of touch with most of his friends he left in Chicago, and he has to learn how to rebuild those connections. Both David and Farzan have different family dynamics to navigate throughout the book, adding a depth to their lives beyond one another.
One huge highlight of this book is definitely the food and drink. The food Farzan was described as cooking had my mouth watering, and I found it super fascinating to read about David's experience preparing for the sommelier exam. Farzan's family runs an Iranian restaurant, a cuisine that I am personally unfamiliar with, but which I would certainly like to try after reading this book! We get Farzan's perspective of a family-owned restaurant that is a pillar of the community, and David's perspective in a new, upscale restaurant with high levels of service. It is a fun peak behind-the-scenes of restaurant life that will appeal to anyone who loves The Bear.
Finally, let's talk about the romance! It might seem obvious to say that the romance novel has a good romance. But wow, David and Farzan have some serious on-page chemistry. From the start, their flirting was fun to read, and I loved watching their relationship grow deeper as David and Farzan help one another out in different ways. They bring out the best in one another, making the other braver and kinder. They are both sexy and silly, which is my personal favorite thing to get from a pair in a romance book. There are plenty of steamy scenes, but not so much that I felt it overpowered the remainder of the story. In fact, sex was an integral part of the story and of their relationship, which I think is really important. I personally am happy that we live in an age where a gay author can unabashedly write about gay sex in a romance novel, because it is just as important as sex in a straight romance novel.
I'll Have What He's Having was all I could have hoped for and more. It was incredibly fun to read, bringing me immense joy. It also made me feel all of the yearning and anxiety these two had for one another. Spicy, fruity, and overall delicious, this one is as good as one of Farzan's meals. I recommend it to people who love romance, or who love books with food.
This completely indulgent book was exactly the romance I was looking for.
4.5 stars to this delectable romance!
Farzan has had a rocky few years. After dreaming of becoming a teacher for most his life, he burned out and quit. Now, he works as a substitute teacher and feels like he can't live up to his amazing siblings. And after a long string of bad boyfriends, his love life isn't looking so hot either. David recently moved back to Kansas City from Chicago, but he is planning to take his sommelier exam which will allow him to get a job essentially wherever he wants. Neither of them are looking for a relationship, but they can't deny their amazing chemistry. They might be able to help each other and have some fun on the side.
I'll Have What He's Having adds to the growing canon of queer books set in the United States Midwest. We are familiar with queer books set in New York City or LA, but the reality is that plenty of queer people do live in the Midwest, and there are thriving queer communities there. It was incredibly refreshing to see that when David struggles over whether or not he should move to California, queer acceptance does not have to be part of the conversation. It is instead just the more traditional struggle of dream job vs dream person.
In general, I loved that I'll Have What He's Having realistically depicted what the life of a queer person in their 30s might look like. Farzan has a really tight group of queer friends, but they are also at different stages in their careers and love lives. His friends play on a queer kickball team, a surprisingly common activity that is easy to brush off as lame, but which is actually a great community builder. On the other hand, David has fell out of touch with most of his friends he left in Chicago, and he has to learn how to rebuild those connections. Both David and Farzan have different family dynamics to navigate throughout the book, adding a depth to their lives beyond one another.
One huge highlight of this book is definitely the food and drink. The food Farzan was described as cooking had my mouth watering, and I found it super fascinating to read about David's experience preparing for the sommelier exam. Farzan's family runs an Iranian restaurant, a cuisine that I am personally unfamiliar with, but which I would certainly like to try after reading this book! We get Farzan's perspective of a family-owned restaurant that is a pillar of the community, and David's perspective in a new, upscale restaurant with high levels of service. It is a fun peak behind-the-scenes of restaurant life that will appeal to anyone who loves The Bear.
Finally, let's talk about the romance! It might seem obvious to say that the romance novel has a good romance. But wow, David and Farzan have some serious on-page chemistry. From the start, their flirting was fun to read, and I loved watching their relationship grow deeper as David and Farzan help one another out in different ways. They bring out the best in one another, making the other braver and kinder. They are both sexy and silly, which is my personal favorite thing to get from a pair in a romance book. There are plenty of steamy scenes, but not so much that I felt it overpowered the remainder of the story. In fact, sex was an integral part of the story and of their relationship, which I think is really important. I personally am happy that we live in an age where a gay author can unabashedly write about gay sex in a romance novel, because it is just as important as sex in a straight romance novel.
I'll Have What He's Having was all I could have hoped for and more. It was incredibly fun to read, bringing me immense joy. It also made me feel all of the yearning and anxiety these two had for one another. Spicy, fruity, and overall delicious, this one is as good as one of Farzan's meals. I recommend it to people who love romance, or who love books with food.
June 16, 2024
This is the third romance featuring a sommelier as a main character that I've read this month! This was a sweet story about two late 30's men still working on their lives and figuring themselves out. I appreciated the age and place in life that determined the story arc, and I really liked both of the MCs. I also thought the author did a beautiful job of building both families and friends of the MCs into a great ensemble cast. The cultural details of Irani culture and food were an added bonus. I definitely recommend this to readers of queer romance who love diverse representation.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC!
June 3, 2024
Adib Khorram has done it again, this time with wine instead of tea (well, technically both). A bighearted romance with just the right notes of spice.
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