We often talk about a passion for work. Maybe that’s another way of saying workaholic. But one industry I know you seriously have to has a passion for and that is the restaurant industry.
I was able to review a new book that’s coming out this fall and it struck me just how much that passion for cooking or baking is embedded in one’s soul.
This book is a amazing read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Here are my thoughts.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux by Samantha Vérant
Publisher: Berkley (September 8, 2020)
ISBN-13: 978-1984806994
Synopsis:
A disgraced chef rediscovers her passion for food and her roots in this stunning novel rich in culture and full of delectable recipes.
French-born American chef Sophie Valroux had one dream: to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant. From spending summers with her grandmother, who taught her the power of cooking and food, to attending the Culinary Institute of America, Sophie finds herself on the cusp of getting everything she’s dreamed of.
Until her career goes up in flames.
Sabotaged by a fellow chef, Sophie is fired, leaving her reputation ruined and confidence shaken. To add fuel to the fire, Sophie learns that her grandmother has suffered a stroke and takes the red-eye to France. There, Sophie discovers the simple home she remembers from her childhood is now a luxurious château, complete with two restaurants and a vineyard. As Sophie tries to reestablish herself in the kitchen, she comes to understand the lengths people will go to for success and love, and how dreams can change.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux by Samantha Vérant Review
I think women have a lot to overcome in certain industries. That’s an unfortunate statement here in 2020 but not much has changed over the years.
This book highlights some amazing facts. Women still have to fight and struggle for every bit they get. But it’s the overall passion for your work that seems to make it worthwhile.
The story offers a marvelous journey loaded with so many different aspects of life. Working in a traditional restaurant where the pressures are intense to be superior in all you do. Working with others where competition really can take a toll on everyone.
Falling from your highest point to the depths of despair and somehow learning to climb out of it step-by-step because of the resilience we have. Reconnecting with relatives who are willing to give you the world and so much more. Finding strength in friends.
This book has so many layers to it. Highs and lows, fear and strength, even hesitant romance through a second chance.
The author brings us a book loaded with passion through life and living, family and relationships. And through it all is amazing food and wines and even some recipes for us to try. I found myself addicted to the story in a very surprising manner.
It’s a wonderful journey that is loaded with the richness of life, the delicacies of food and flavor, and the sweet treat of a wonderful love story. Delightful, passionate, and fierce.
5 Stars!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.
2 thoughts on “The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux by Samantha Vérant: Review”
Chris-
Thank you so much for this beautiful review! You really got the book…and that means the world to me. Thank you for reading! Bisous from La France.
Samantha
It was my pleasure. Thank you for sharing your gift of storytelling.
Chris