Trista, Aja and Margo bond immediately over a cookbook club that Trista's advertised on social media. They bond over foods and the changes each woman is going through.

The story gives off a light yet heavy mood at the same time. Even though the book summary focuses more on the women and the changes, and the love for food that brought them together. There is also one character that I found refreshing was Max. The addition of a main male character gave a nice transition to the story. There were several male perspectives within the book, that was nice and light. It took away from the heaviness of each woman's struggle. Kind of like the silver lining. The one character that I wish was more upfront within the story was Lucinda. She came in at the end, but her life was so interestingly told that I wished she was one of the main characters. I love all the recipes at the end of the book. I have made the sauce and it's is to die for! Beth Harbison did it again. An extraordinary story.

A big thanks to HarperCollins Publishers and NetGalley for this amazing ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This charming book hooked me from the start. I loved the author’s confident writing style and engaging narrative about three women with personal crises who bond over cooking.

Trista, a fired attorney, starts a cookbook club to test recipes for the bar she’s bought. Margo, just dumped by her husband, joins the club to indulge her love of cooking and to make friends. Aja discovers she’s pregnant with her rich boyfriend’s baby. His mother is highly judgmental and he’s never talked about commitment.

Cooking, of course, plays a huge role, with mouthwatering meals devoured throughout and even a recipe section at the end. I saw it as a metaphor for growth, by taking what you know (old recipes) and adding new spices and fresh ingredients for a more sumptuous taste.

Renovation plays a role, too, as Trista’s bar and Margo’s old farm get amazing redos. Both reflect the depth of change each woman undergoes.

I felt part of the club, rooting for each woman, wanting happy endings for all. Alas, the denouement seemed too abrupt for me. Only Margo’s new life was explored to any extent, leaving me wanting so much more. Sequel? I sure hope so!

4 of 5 Stars

Pub Date 20 Oct 2020

Thanks to the author, HarperCollins Publishers, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.

#TheCookbookClub #NetGalley