Recs if you like Aftertaste...

Debut novels that feel like they were written by seasoned writers. Whether it be because of the author's clear voice, the depth of the themes or the quality of the prose, you'll be surprised that this is the author's first published novel

Note: The authors featured may have published other works, like short story collections or plays, but the book featured here is their first novel

can I get some hands? yes, please, chef 😈

do you have a crush on Alton Brown on Cutthroat Kitchen or Ayo Edebri on The Bear? maybe you just really love making food or eating a really good meal? do you make sure to lick your plate clean and finish your meal? then this is the list for you!

hopefully the chefs in these books make your mouth water 🤤

to quote Hudson Williams: munch munch munch yum yum yum

Sometimes you're just not ready to commit to a series

Nominees and winners of every category of the Good Reads Choice Awards for the year of 2025. Some books overlap so they were only entered once.

Warning: these reads may cause sudden cravings

All the 2025 BOTM monthly, add on, and Allurial titles

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Fiction & nonfiction books that explore the complexities and traumas of father-child relationships or in which such relationships play a central role. Not all books on this list include “daddy issues” — these books can be about the different perspectives and nuances of the father-child relationship, whether positive or negative. Some books center the child, some the father, some both.

Suggestions are welcome.

Is the main character a magical chef, a warrior cook or techno gourmet? Then they belong on this list. Bonus points if they have recipes included!

Only first books of series.

Not sure if I should include sff books with good food descriptions too. Comment to let me know what you think or with suggestions.

Own any translation dictionaries? No? Well, you might want to now.

These books will make you want to keep one by your side, be it for the various Chinese dialects, Latin, Old Welsh, Arabic, and so on that appear as quotes, vocab, or key references ~

Books that do a great job of making your mouth water from their great food descriptions or show fascinating things about food.

Books to yap about with your friends from Simon & Schuster.