A charming romantic comedy about a talented chef and the anonymous food critic who nearly destroys her restaurant?only to fall for her in real life?in this delightful enemies-to-lovers love story set in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
In downtown Milwaukee, Lou works tirelessly to build her beloved yet struggling French restaurant, Luella's, into a success. She balances the pressures of running a small business with wedding plans and a demanding fiancé…until the morning she discovers him in the buff?with an intern.
Meanwhile, witty yet gruff British transplant Al keeps himself employed?and entertained?by writing scathing restaurant reviews for the local newspaper under a pseudonym. When an anonymous tip sends him to Luella's on the worst day of Lou's life, he delivers a devastating critique: underdone fish, scorched sauce, distracted service. The fallout could close her doors for good.
When Lou and Al later meet by chance in a pub, neither realizes they're on opposite sides of a professional disaster. Sparks fly as they explore Milwaukee's hidden culinary gems, bonding over food, second chances, and undeniable chemistry. But as Lou's restaurant struggles and Al's column gains momentum, the truth looms. When their mistaken identities are finally revealed, can love survive a betrayal served cold?
Set in the quirky, vibrant heart of Wisconsin, The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is a feel-good, enemies-to-lovers romance about fresh starts, forgiveness, and the power of food to bring people together.