4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

Seven Recipes for Revolution is one of those all-too-rare fantasy novels with a very unique magic system - food! I can absolutely see why The Bear has been mentioned in the blurb, with high-pressure cooking a recurring theme throughout this book, though the 'steaks' are much higher! Specifically, steaks from huge creatures, with meals made from these unlocking magical abilities.

Ryan Rose weaves a wonderful tale of revolution, revenge and recipes, told mainly via the main character telling his story from a prison cell. The story bounces between past events and the present day and it works so well in building tension, with some nice foreshadowing along the way. There are some excellent twists and the story maintains momentum from start to finish. There is an underlying theme of class wars and an academic setting too and some very engaging characters.

All in all, a fantastic mix! I'm very excited to see where this series goes as I thoroughly enjoyed this first book! A huge thank you to Netgalley and Daphne Press for an ARC.

I want to thank NetGalley for letting me read this arc! I didn’t know what I was getting myself into but im so glad I am on this journey!

This book is a really wild ride from start to finish, I wasn’t sure what to expect but the description of The Bear crossed with Attack on Titan was entirely spot on. Firstly I loved the perspective this is told from, it feels very theatrical, like a tv show, told though an interview format where we go between past and present. I got so immersed that when they came back to the present it was jarring but also really intriguing as it felt more like a puzzle. We were trying to figure out what’s happened, how the characters have ended up as they are and who this mysterious interviewer is!

The author pulls no punches and very clearly lays out this strange world with a hierarchy not unlike that of Red Rising in which there is a higher class that have powers and the rest are treated as workers that live to serve the upper classes. We follow Patrick as he tells us of his life and how he got to where is he in the current time. Starting out as a butcher to cut meat from these gigantic magical beasts that then when consumed give the person temporary gifts. He learns about a rebel uprising and decides to risk it all to steal meat and cook food of his own, ultimately accidentally creating a new recipe that changes his life.

One aspect of this book that I truly loved was the queer normative world in which these characters live. They introduce themselves with their pronouns, Patrick has two mothers and being queer seems to be completely normal. They are respectful of pronouns even when sentencing someone to death which made me oddly happy. Patrick’s relationship with his mothers was really beautiful and came as a nice break from all the violence happening in their world. There are so many great side characters in this too that you will root for.

Nobody is perfect in this book even our beloved little group of main characters made mistakes, there’s betrayal and murder, political upheaval interspersed with very in depth recipes for different meals to grant powers. It was a strange experience reading this book as a vegan, there’s a lot of killing animals for meat, descriptions of food and recipes for food but in this world its because the meat gives them power. I liked that the powers were different depending on the recipe and were only temporary which meant that the power balances could shift over time. Always keeping the reader on our toes!

This is one of the strangest, most unique books I’ve read, very futuristic but also at the same time the dichotomy of a somewhat progressive society and rudimentary world create something special. Theres no technology, the world revolves around cooking. Overall I highly recommend this as it’s incredibly new and fresh and will entice you not only with a brilliantly complex storyline but also with mouth watering food recipes!

You always hear about how authors have to do something 'different' to get noticed or whatever, and I confess I always roll my eyes when I hear this line - but I confess reading the description of Seven Recipes for Revolution I was genuinely intrigued by the unique premise.

And let me tell you that this book delivers - the comp blurb is "The Bear meets Attack on Titan" which it probably the most absurd comparisons since Pride and Prejudice and Zombies - and yet this book is the real deal. I wouldn't say the story is hugely culinary, its the more the flavour (sorry not sorry) that is given to the magic system and world-building of this universe. That's not to say that Ryan Rose skimps on the cooking, I'm just pointing out that the story is more about the revolution, and 'attack on Titan' elements you're not going to get a raft of family drama in and around a restaurant!

I think the strongest element of Rose's work is the nature of the world built - heavy on class systems the world feels very oppressive, yet there is enough subtlety and human nature included that one doesn't feel you're reading about caricatures. To be frank I wouldn't be surprised if this book got banned a few places due to its revolutionary nature and clear allegories for oppressive politics!

Just some final notes - this book is pretty graphically violent, not necessarily something I'd point out in a review but I think the tone of the book could trip a few people up, its not unwarranted but its definitely got some shock value.

I received an ARC copy of this from Netgalley, and I suspect this book will gain a very strong cult following (if it doesn't already) Can't wait for the next instalment!

Daphne press surprised me by granting access to this book, especially since I’ve been a long-time Illumicrate subscriber. The idea that this read could resonate with fans of Pierce Brown was another compelling reason for me to dive in. This is an captivating story, skillfully woven with rich narrative elements that bring to life well-developed characters. At its heart lies a fervent passion for culinary arts, intertwined with themes of injustice that resonate throughout the plot. control and governments? That's a direct book for me. It feels like a mix of "Red Rising" and "The Bear Show" in my mind, yet it simultaneously stands apart from both. The gripping ending left me yearning for the next book in the series, and I’m relieved I didn’t join this party late since the book is an ARC. I truly believe this is the biggest debut of 2025. I can’t help but wonder when the book tour will take place.

I’m not sure I have coherent thoughts after that ending, and I’m definitely not sure I’ll survive the wait until the sequel is out.

The comps (The Bear, AOT, Red Rising, EOTV) are absolutely perfect. It delivered precisely what I expected as far as vibes, but kept me on my toes the entire time, guessing until the very last page.

The blurb of "Seven Recipes for Revolution" states that it is "perfect for fans of Pierce Brown and Jay Kristoff"; not sure how it is for everyone else, but as someone who did not enjoy a single book of theirs, it was a rather red flag. Fortunately, the blurb consists of much more than a simple comparison.

Ryan Rose managed to do something neither of those mentioned authors could – create a greater story around a rather young protagonist. Paprick is a teenager in a cruel world, one that got his love for food from his mothers, and yet is stopped from pursuing that passion due to strict rules. But even a common can shake the world, just like a common may attend a prestigious Culinary Academy, while being accused of the greatest crime possible.

Story of young Paprick is intertwined with story of Paprick the Butcher, a figure so powerful and terrifying, people crave his interrogation to reveal his secrets. And that works. It is incredibly captivating to discover this story from two different perspectives. Rose writes with incredible lightness, even as he is describing the most devastating scene. It is also delightfully queer, which I appreciate greatly.

"Seven Recipes for Revolution" serves as an obvious beginning to a bigger narrative, and it works perfectly – everything starts somewhere, every step is important. I may not be the earnest fan of books set in universities, as I find them rather boring, especially when I know there is something bigger waiting around the corner. But truth to be told, that's on me, even "Poppy War" couldn't make me interested in that. Here, it is the sole reason my reading took so long. But in the same time I must admit, Rose does a lot of things to never really focus only on one subplot at the time. There is a constant action, even if you discover it only after few chapters – each ingredient is necessary to cook the delicious dish this book happens to be.

Recommended with pleasure and full stomach, as you do grow hungry during the reading.

I can't remember the last time I had so much fun with epic fantasy. This was a uniqye and unusual twist on the genre with a gripping plot and engaging characters. Loved it.

This is like an anime in book form- utterly devourable, tasteful, and fun.

Paprick is a common butcher, carving slabs of meat from gargantuan monsters so chefs can prepare magic-granting meals for the rich. When he discovers a new recipe that makes him grow tall, he is invited to train in the culinary school of the Rares - the elite. Paprick dreams of liberating his people and sharing the monsters’ magic with the world.

This was like a high strung, tense cooking show meets over the top fantasy like One Piece or Attack on Titan.

This also uses a narrative framing device I love - told from Paprick when he is an adult known as the infamous But her. He is set to be executed but is first telling his story to the archivist. But is he embellishing, misleading? Is he really telling the truth? I always love an unreliable narrator.

<b>“We’re all tools, stage. The only meaningful choice in life is to determine what tool we become. I chose to be a chef’s tool, a knife. If I teach you anything, let it be this: be a knife. The rest are worthless.”
I nodded. I could be a knife. A sharp one.
</b>
This had some fascinating things to say on propaganda. The Rares keep the Commons down through rhetoric and lies for the benefit of the royals and their preferred religion. However, Paprick is turned into an idol built on tall (get it?) tales to further the rebellion.

The ending felt slightly rushed and I was not keen on the change in pacing and abrupt end. This is obviously the first in an explosive new series, yet I felt there needed to be a stronger end to book one.

Arc gifted by Black Crow.

I absolutely loved this fresh take on epic fantasy by Ryan Rose. And what’s more exciting, is that it’s the first in a trilogy so we can expect plenty more delicious bites in the coming years.

The novel is set in a world where magic is granted only to the elites by way of consuming special meals harvested from huge monsters.
We follow Paprick, who is working as a butcher in the Common district but dreams of becoming a Chef. A seemingly impossible goal seeing as only the Rare elite are permitted to enlist in the Culinary Academy.

When he accidentally invents a new magic recipe, he is whisked away from his humble life to begin studying at the Academy. But not everyone is enthused by his presence among the elite, and Paprick finds himself embroiled in an epic struggle of the classes. Whilst also trying to achieve his personal ambitions he must act as spy and student at once.

Ryan Rose’s writing is sharp and engaging, the plot is so masterfully executed as we switch between timelines, and the characterisation of Paprick in particular, was endearing.

I was delighted with the mix between cosy fantasy and high stakes drama with epic battles -mouth-watering descriptions of food, humour, the academic setting, coupled with intrigue and twists that were both satisfying and enigmatic – ensuring I was riveted throughout.

The world building gives readers a glimpse into how intricate this series is shaping up to be and leaves us wanting more.

Any fantasy fans looking for something bold and different will really enjoy this book.

A sensory feast that lingers to the last page. I cannot wait for the next instalment.

Thanks to Daphne Press and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!! I loved it!

Imagine a world where cuisine wields unimaginable power—where meat from colossal monsters grants magical abilities to those wealthy enough to dine on it. This book invites readers into such a realm, blending the pulse-pounding action of Attack on Titan with the culinary intensity of Food Wars, all wrapped in a dark, dystopian tone.

At the center of the story is Paprick, a humble butcher with extraordinary ambitions. While carving up Monster Meat for elite chefs, he dreams of mastering the culinary arts himself, a path forbidden to someone of his station. Paprick’s journey begins with stolen ingredients and clandestine experiments, but it takes a jaw-dropping turn when his latest creation transforms him into a kaiju-sized giant. This accidental metamorphosis catapults him into a high-stakes world of political intrigue and culinary decadence, as he uses his newfound power to challenge societal hierarchies and expose the corruption at the heart of his world.

What makes Revolution stand out is its ability to balance humor with conflict. The moment Paprick inadvertently grows to monstrous proportions is both absurdly funny and deeply unsettling, embodying the unpredictable magic of the Monster Meat. The high-stakes scenarios peppered with humor, the exploration of themes of rebellion, power dynamics, and the consequences of unchecked privilege are explored so well in this novel.

Paprick is a protagonist you can’t help but root for. His determination to perfect his craft and share its transformative potential with the oppressed creates a compelling narrative arc, while his encounters with the ruling elite uncover layers of corruption that make his rebellion as personal as it is political.

The world-building is another standout feature, with vivid descriptions of gargantuan monsters, mouthwatering meals that brim with magic, and a caste-driven society teetering on the edge of collapse. Fans of dark fantasy will relish the novel’s immersive setting, where each bite of Monster Meat carries as much danger as it does allure.

Revolution is a deliciously inventive tale of ambition, rebellion, and the intoxicating power of food. It’s perfect for fans of Pierce Brown, Jay Kristoff, or anyone who loves a story that seamlessly blends action, humor, and thought-provoking themes. Ryan Rose has served up a feast of a novel, don’t miss a bite!!!

Rating: 5/5 Stars
Why Read It???: For its unique premise, compelling characters, and blend of humor, suspense, and culinary magic.
Comparable Reads: Attack on Titan meets Shokugeki no Soma with a sprinkle of The Bear

Magic-centric culinary delights and giant kaiju? Reservation for 1, please!

Ryan Rose's Seven Recipes for Revolution is a dash Hell's Kitchen, a pinch Pierce Brown, and a hint Hajime Isayama which culminates in one of the most palate-pleasing debuts I've ever read.

If the cover alone doesn't scream "BUY" - which it should - then take my word as a self-titled SFF connoisseur and foodie that this one is special.

I fully expect SRfR to be one of the hottest debuts of 2025 when it hits next Summer.

Thank you Daphne Press, for my ARC copy of Revolution
by Ryan Rose

The book was an engaging and enjoyable read, and as I delved deeper into the story, I found myself visualizing Paprick as an anime character, which felt entirely fitting for the narrative. The storyline reminded me of an intriguing blend between "Attack on Titan" and "Food Wars," but with a darker undertone and without the typical ecchi elements.

I was captivated by Paprick's journey toward becoming a master chef, and I was eager to unravel the reasons behind his exceptional culinary skills. The moment when he inadvertently cooks a dish that transforms him into a giant is both hilarious and unsettling. It was a clever twist that highlighted the magic within Monster Meat, ultimately shifting his reality in extraordinary ways.

This unforeseen growth attracts the attention of the ruling elite, pulling Paprick into a web of corruption and intrigue that adds depth to the narrative. The combination of humour, suspense, and the exploration of power dynamics kept me fully engaged, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to discover what challenges and revelations awaited Paprick in his quest.

#AnimeInspiration #FantasyFiction #CulinaryAdventure #SuspensefulRead #PowerDynamics #BookReview #EngagingStory #MustRead #RyanRose #DaphnePress

A very unique story.
With enticing charactres and plot.
I couldn’t put it down.
Husky recommend.

The writing style wasn't for me unfortunately so I only read a couple of chapters of this story! I have to review every book or my ratio can't hit 100%, sorry.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. I really enjoyed this one - the rich worldbuilding and the magic system built around food was fun to read. It's told in a manner that reminded me of the Empire of the Vampire, with the MC recounting their story. The action sequences in this are also written very well (I will say that some of the more heavy emotional scenes did not hit as hard as they maybe could have). I would highly recommend this to those that love immersive worldbuilding and creative magic systems.