4.5 rounded upFirst off, this story made me crave some really good ice cream! EM Lynley describes the tactile sensations and the flavors in such a way that it was an absolute need to get a bowl of frozen confection, mostly because first choice (of hot guys) wasn't in grabbing range.Cameron the food critic stumbles on the hottest, or coolest, new sensation of Jay’s novel flavors at a tasting, and also stumbles on the interesting sensation of not being recognized. Most of the folks in the food scene know who he is and fear his opinions, but Jay wants to get down and dirty in the delivery van, not court Cameron’s judgment on his wares—that Cameron even had a widely respected opinion came as a surprise. These hot gay guys consider that a good blowjob is like a firm handshake—do that first and then get to know each other.If they could be in the same place at the same time, that would work better—and the whole world is conspiring to keep them apart. Every single secondary character has an agenda to stick between them, and only Jay’s good-hearted but manipulative staff oppose them. Cameron and Jay are both stubborn and intrigued, but a few of Jay’s quirks make it even harder for them to get together.A couple of Jay’s idiosyncrasies seemed a bit over the top—why have business cards in your pocket if you won’t even give your phone number to a regular customer? But there are some explanations for even that, and it’s all good frustrating fun and treats for the reader. With every new setback creating a gasp and every fresh revelation bringing an agreeing nod, this story romps through the difficulties created for and by two obstinate men who really ought to have a chance at each other in fresh, crisp sheets.The secondary characters, from Cameron’s ex who wants him back to Jay’s former partner and lover, plus other friends and foes with strong opinions, all stir the pot here, and are vividly drawn. One female character nearly went over the top, but ended with some nuance. Jay’s employees are darlings, well meaning if occasionally off based, and more help than hindrance, even if Jay would like to whack them with a ladle at one point. Jay’s so stubborn he’s probably the one who needs the thump upside the head—he creates huge vats of will he/won’t he tension.I enjoyed this story greatly, and now someone better scoop me a big bowl of Jay's chocolaty lusciousness! Totally craving ice cream now. And thai food. The descriptions of food in this book were just as amazing as the guys and the steamy sex scenes. Yeah, I need ice cream to cool down after the first chapter!I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. I won't rehash the plot since the blurb is a good summary, but I did like how both guys had ex boyfriends who made their lives difficult. They both blamed themselves for the relationships going wrong and it made them wary of a new guy's motivations. Jay seemed so unaware of everything he had going on and I liked how the women in the book supported both male characters. There was one bitchy character, but she was more funny than anything, and the three awesome women totally balanced her out. For a novella was more detailed with characterization than I expected and I'm very pleased with it. I liked the descriptions of San Francisco, and wish there had been more. Of course I'd love to know what happens next for Jay and Cam, but their HFN and maybe HEA put a real smile on my face. I laughed plenty, too, especially at the scene in Rainbeaux. I dare you to read this and not want to eat something afterwards. Even if you don't like ice cream, you'll want fruit or chocolate or something. I'd like to read more by this author too.
What do You think about Brand New Flavor (2012)?
If you want a story plot which is easy going and is very simple then you are on the right way.
—Thundercats22
Not my favorite. Found the instant love/connection to be unrealistic.
—bari
