The Secret Recipe for Second Chances by J.D. Barrett Published by Hachette Australia on February 2nd 2017
Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, Romance
Pages: 336
Format: Paperback
Source: Publisher
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Lucy Muir is leaving her husband. It's complicated. They're joint owners and chefs at one of the best restaurants in town, so making a clean break is tough. But, let's face it, a woman can only take so much cheating, recipe stealing and lack of good grace.
Despondently driving around the back streets of Woolloomooloo one night, Lucy happens upon an old, empty terrace that was once the city's hottest restaurant: Fortune. One minute she's peering through grimy windows into an abandoned space, the next she's planning a pop-up bistro.When Lucy fires up Fortune's old kitchen she discovers a little red recipe book that belonged to the former chef, the infamous Frankie Summers. As she cries over the ingredients for Frankie's French Onion Soup, she imagines what Fortune was like in its heyday. It's strange, Lucy can sense Frankie beside her, almost see him there ...This fiery chef, who lived with a passion for food and women in almost equal measure, just might help Lucy cook herself up a better life. But is she brave enough to believe?A surprising, smart, charming novel that shows every day brings with it a second chance.
Seeing as The Little Cafe of Second Chances is a book about food, we were onto a winner from the start. And with descriptions of gorgeous food and enticing recipes it was not to salivate at the food. And have an urge to run into the kitchen and rustle something up. With is a rarity in my case let me assure you.
This is a brilliant funny smart book, that proves that there is always a second chance as long as you can grab them. In fact that chance can be around the corner when you least expect it.
With a colourful cast of characters, The Little Cafe of Second Chances is filled with people who are lovable and have heart, but prove time and time again, that they are human. Lucy is surrounded by people who love her an support her. And with her backstory and the showing how terrible a person Leith is, all you can do is route for Lucy to come out on top.
The story was told from alternative perspectives throughout depending on whether we are focused on the past or the present and who is telling the story. The main (and present view) is told by Lucy. While the other perspective alternates between the past and the present. Leading to a compelling and intriguing story-line as the reader tries to figure out what is going on.
I like the romance element. It felt me with a warm fuzzy feeling. But the mystery side of the story was a bit lacking. And in my mind hardly worth worrying about.
The Little Cafe of Second Chances is an easy, enjoyable read. Which is perfect to curl up with and forget the rest of the world. This is a book with some special ingredients in it.
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