I love reading a novel or memoir and coming across a delicious reference to food. These types of books with food at their core are my dream read.
I asked on Instagram a few weeks ago if anyone had any recommendations and am delighted with the response. Below are those recommendations plus my own. Do you have any to add? Do let me know because my to-be-read pile isn't tall enough as it is!
My Life in France by Julia Child
I absolutely adored this memoir. I loved the film Julie and Julia (if you haven't watched this film by the way, buy it now!) so had to read this afterwards to continue the food and the amazing character that is Julia Child. A gorgeous memoir I didn't want to end.
My favourite novel from a few years ago. It's Ruth's debut novel and, after thoroughly enjoying her memoirs, it went to the top of my pile. It didn't disappoint. Full of food. Full of taste. Full of mouth-watering experiences. And with a mystery to solve.
The Art of Baking Blind by Sarah Vaughan
A beautiful and delicious novel based around a baking competition not unlike The Great British Bake-Off.
That Part Was True by Deborah McKinlay
A man and woman send letters and recipes to each other across the Atlantic. Friendship blossoms. Loved this novel. LOVED.
Lunch in Paris by Elizabeth Bard
A true love story with recipes - Elizabeth Bard falls in love with a Frenchman and moves to the world’s most romantic city – not the Hollywood version, but the real Paris.
The Sea, The Sea by Iris Murdoch
The narrator, Charles Arrowby, describes numerous solitary meals that he eats. When Charles retires to the sea he unexpectedly bumps into his childhood sweetheart and sets his heart on destroying her marriage.
Desire for Chocolate by Care Santos
A novel about three women over three centuries and the same bone china chocolate pot.
The classic, semi-autobiographical novel by Nora Ephron.
My Kitchen Year by Ruth Reichl
A recipe book that reads like a memoir ( pictured above with my chickens!)
A book of stories and recipes inspired by Carla's beloved books. I used to read Carla's blog a few years back.
Mastering the Art of French Eating by Ann Mah
A memoir of a journalist married to a diplomat who is given a three year assignment in Paris.
The Letters of Julia Child and Avis DeVoto - if you've watched the film Julie & Julia you'll know Avis is Julia Childs' pen friend and literary mentor.
The Raw Scent of Vanilla by Emilia Bresciani
A true story born from the storytelling traditions of the lush and fertile Peruvian Amazon.
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
A novel with recipes, romance and home remedies.
Blood, Bones, and Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton
Gabrielle Hamilton charts her journey from childhood to renowned chef.
Do you have any suggestions to add? I'd love to know.
