Whilst pottering about on Amazon, as you do, I came across 'Lunch in Paris' by Elizabeth Bard. I was initially attracted to this novel due to it's setting being Paris - I love Paris - then quickly realised that food featured heavily alongside the perfect backdrop. A couple of clicks & Lunch in Paris was on it's way to me.
Initial ThoughtsFrom the get-go this book is romantic. So very romantic. For a dreamer, this book is perfect to get lost in and is based on real events. *sigh*
The plot is developed based around the meals the pair share together as they get to know each other and their relationship develops. For select meals, the recipe features at the end of the chapter which is a nice idea which I also enjoyed in 'Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe' by Fannie Flagg.
"He inverted the pan, shook it from side to side, and out of the ninety-nine-cent pot came a dessert fit for Louis XIV, a perfectly moulded apricot Charlotte, each ladyfinger standing to attention, held together by a layer of cream and studded with slices of fruit."
So far, I am really enjoying Lunch in Paris. It isn't overly difficult to read without being seriously dumb-ed down. The characters haven't presented any opportunity to get on my nerves so far and I am just enjoying the food, romance and most of all Paris! The predictability is low with in this story possibly due to the events being real life meaning there are no cheesy cliches that sometimes feature in fiction of this nature.
Finished the book
On finishing this book, I instantly opened my laptop & searched Paris on Pinterest which resulted in a pinning marathon! 'Lunch in Paris' is beautifully written, mixing details about the authors life and events with observations of French life & culture seamlessly. To begin with, I always read the recipes at the end of the chapters but towards the end the chose not to instead choosing to skim them. I figured if I wanted a knew recipe I can come back to them.
"One pragmatic 10 does not a social circle make, so I finally agreed to do what I'd been dreading and began exploring the more formalized American expat community."
Everything about this book was so perfect. If you enjoy a light yet not overly simple novel that includes food, romance & Paris then 'Lunch In Paris' is without a doubt for you. A perfect read for a chilly winter day or even for taking on holiday!
* * * * *
5 stars out of 5
