THE FRENCH COOKERY SCHOOL BY CAROLINE JAMES

Please can I go on a Caroline James holiday every year? Her books are so full of joy, feeling, and wonderful characters I just want to be part of them. Mature folk with stories to tell taking the holiday of a lifetime – I can read as much of that as she can write.

Arriving at La Maison du Paradis, uptight Caroline and gregarious Fran are chalk and cheese. While Caroline’s life is falling apart around her ears and she’s looking for inspiration to save her business, Fran is there to take her ambitions to the next level. With trusty husband Stan at home in Blackpool keeping their award-winning fish and chip shop running, they dream of bringing fine dining to their home town. But will Fran prove a good enough cook to do it?

The other guests, the owner of the chateau, his staff and celebrity chef employed for the week, all provide a strong supporting cast, written with a humour and affection that spreads its warmth throughout this wonderful book. Coupled with a setting to die for, gorgeous food, a little bit of drama and a sliver or two of romance, I find it hard to imagine a better holiday read. The talented Caroline James at her very best.