When You Bake with the Enemy by Lia Huni

Sparks fly as the main characters clash over their goals, leading to a sweet enemies-to-lovers romance. The book is filled with humor, chemistry, and a cozy Bavarian-inspired atmosphere, culminating in a heartwarming happily-ever-after.

The Story

It's a delightful small-town romantic comedy. The story follows Jamie O'Callaghan, a math teacher who moves to Rotheberg, Oregon, after a breakup. While adjusting to the town's quirky "Sound of Music" obsession, Jamie is tasked with teaching a baking class—despite her lack of culinary skills. Enter Dylan Mead, a charming and talented pastry chef who agrees to help her but has his own agenda: demolishing her classroom to expand his bakery.

Analysis

Lia Huni's When You Bake with the Enemy is a compelling study of the romantic comedy genre's ability to weave humor, conflict, and personal growth into a narrative framework. The novel leans on the classic enemies-to-lovers trope, exploring how external conflicts—like Jamie’s lack of baking skills and Dylan’s aspirations to expand his bakery—become a metaphorical lens for their internal struggles. Jamie and Dylan’s opposing goals are a microcosm of broader themes: learning to compromise, embracing vulnerability, and discovering one’s passions. This tension is balanced by light-hearted moments, witty banter, and the idyllic small-town setting, which acts as both a charming backdrop and a catalyst for connection.

In a broader literary context, the book's Bavarian-inspired atmosphere and "Sound of Music"-themed quirks add an element of escapism and cultural specificity, setting it apart from more generic romance novels. The narrative's integration of community dynamics emphasizes the role of external forces in shaping the protagonists' journey. While adhering to genre conventions, such as the inevitable happy ending, Huni adds depth by ensuring that the characters’ growth feels earned. Ultimately, the story transcends its surface humor and sweetness, offering readers a thoughtful exploration of identity, purpose, and the transformative power of love.

Rating 3/5

I must start with romance novels, which are not my thing, at least not the foremost part. Subplots of romance are great. This novel got the rating because it was predictable, and the ending (spoiler, proposal) was too early for any realistic relationship. I knew what was happening and what would happen from the beginning. The enemies-to-lovers trope didn't set the bar for something interesting, but much was desired. It was a fun read, yes, but it lacked.

I recommend this book to those looking for an easy read, a new setting, and romance.