3.5 stars ( )

3.5 Stars ( )

After Ben graduates from college, he moves in with three close friends and commences a desperate job search, but after 17 interviews and no calls - all employers want previous professional experience, a classic Catch-22 - Ben applies on a whim to a kitchen position that is advertised as "no experience necessary." Tall, handsome, tattooed, blond Liam is friendly and wants to hire Ben after a brief test, but the gruff chef says Ben must pass a series of challenges, which Watson (the pig) will judge. Fortunately, Watson loves Ben's dishes, and Ben is happy working in the restaurant with Liam (on whom he has a (reciprocated) crush) and other coworkers Emilia and Mel. This causes a wrinkle with his best friend Liz, who feels she's being replaced, but the twentysomethings have the social-emotional skills to talk it out. At a crucial moment, Ben's parents arrive at his new workplace - which he lied about - and they have a confrontation.

Perfect for the newly graduated, especially foodies, who like a little light romance and solid friendships.

Back matter includes process notes, sketches, fan art, and recipes.

See also: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

Quotes

"I was supposed to be a writer. At least, that's what I thought I wanted. Really, it's what my parents always wanted, and I think what I really wanted was their approval. But I don't think I would have gotten that even if I got one of the writing jobs I applied for." (Ben, 71)

"What's stupid is making teenagers decide what they want to do for the next fifty years for work when they barely know who they are as people." (Emi, 71) ( )

Food, friendship, romance & writing, a great combination, with solid LGBTQ representation. I really enjoyed this Adult GN, it made me want to learn how to cook the recipes Ben created and cooked in the story! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. ( )

I received an advance copy by NetGalley for reviewing purposes.

Ok, so this comic was on my wishlist for a while now and I was really excited to be able to read it early! It was very relatable, all the what ifs and the struggles of the first job, trying to win the experience you need to get a chance to win the experience you need.
I liked how in the end not everything sounds perfect, Ben probably will have to work on his relationship with his parents, but that's fine. I also loved how he figured out how to do both of his passions work with each other. A really cute comic, love it! ( )