For fans of Stacey Ballis and Beth Harbison, THE COINCIDENCE OF COCONUT CAKE is a delectable novel about a chef, a food critic and one BIG misunderstanding.

Talented chef Lou works tirelessly to build her beloved --- yet struggling --- French restaurant Luella's into a success. Looking forward to her wedding and laughing with her employees, it's smooth sailing. Until the morning she discovers her fiance in the buff with an intern.

Witty yet gruff British transplant Al is keeping himself employed and entertained by writing scathing reviews of local restaurants in the Milwaukee newspaper under a pseudonym. When an anonymous tip sends him to Luella's, little does he know he's arrived on the worst day of the chef's life. The review practically writes itself: underdone fish, scorched sauce, distracted service --- he unleashes his worst.

The day that Al’s mean-spirited review of Luella's runs, the two cross paths in a pub: Lou drowing her sorrows, and Al celebrating his latest publication. As they chat, Al playfully challenges Lou to show him the best of Milwaukee and Lou is game --- but only if they never discuss work. Charmed by Lou and protective of his secret identity, he readily agrees to the condition.

As they explore the city’s local delicacies and their mutual attraction, Lou’s restaurant faces closure, while Al’s column gains popularity. It’s only a matter of time before the two fall in love … but when the truth about the review comes out, can Lou overlook the past to chase her future?