In a delightful sequel to the best-selling comedic novel My Italian Bulldozer , we are in a French village where the local restaurant’s haute cuisine leaves a lot to be desired–and two books into an astounding ninth series from one of our most beloved authors.
Renowned cookbook writer Paul Stuart, renewed and refreshed from his time in Tuscany, has returned to Scotland to work on his new book, The Philosophy of Food in Six Easy Chapters. Writing, though, is complicated by Paul’s changed domestic circumstances. His editor and new girlfriend, Gloria, has moved in with him despite not being specifically invited, and she’s brought her two rather demanding Siamese cats. When Paul’s cousin, Chloe, suggests Paul visit her in the French countryside, Paul jumps at the chance. However, once he arrives, he finds his fortunes tangled up with the infamous local restaurant that gives the book its title. In this story about a man who prides himself on his taste finding delight in the most unexpected places, we have Alexander McCall Smith at his most witty and charming.
The Second Worst Restaurant in France by Alexander McCall Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
FTC disclosure: I would like to thank Penguin Random House for providing me with an advance reader copy via access to the galley for free through the First to Read program.
A fun story. Loved the setting, the description of food, the research it must have required to get the details just right, the tension between characters… I wanted a bit more though from the actual story.
There was a lot going on but there was sort of a lack of depth. I didn’t feel like it was really taking me anywhere, at least somewhere and to an extent I was hoping it would, especially given all of the other lovely factors that built the story to be something of more grandeur in nature and theme.
I must say I adore the covers of Alexander McCall Smith’s books and will be looking forward to checking out more by this author!
Check out the audiobook at Libro.fm
