Delicious! - Ruth Reichl

Delicious!

By Ruth Reichl

  • Release Date: 2014-05-06
  • Genre: Fiction & Literature
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 357 Ratings

Description

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “Reichl’s compulsively readable novel is a treat for anyone who loves a warm, character-packed tale—a delectable mix of flavor, fantasy, and emotional comfort food.”—O: The Oprah Magazine
 
The debut novel from the beloved food critic and author of The Paris Novel, featuring an exclusive conversation between Ruth Reichl and Emily Giffin
 
Billie Breslin has traveled far from her home in California to take a job at Delicious!, New York’s most iconic food magazine. At first, Billie feels like a fish out of water—until she is welcomed by the magazine’s colorful staff and seduced by the vibrant downtown food scene. Then an unexpected turn of events leads Billie to a miraculous discovery. In a hidden room in the magazine’s library, she finds a cache of letters written during World War II by Lulu Swan, a plucky twelve-year-old, to the legendary chef James Beard. Lulu’s letters provide Billie with a richer understanding of history and inspire Billie to come to terms with her fears and her ability to open her heart to love.
 
Through her bestselling memoirs, including Tender at the Bone and Comfort Me with Apples, Ruth Reichl has achieved a special place in readers’ hearts. Now, with this magical novel, she has created a sumptuous world that will enchant you.

Reviews

  • Delicious!

    5
    By asapr212
    Really great story. Characters. Puzzle. She’s an excellent storyteller.
  • Amazing

    5
    By rsqatc
    What a beautifully written book, I feel like I know the characters and was along for the journey. A fantastic read!!!
  • Did not want to put down

    4
    By Merida@18
    This is a good light Summer read. Only problem was it made me want to go in the kitchen and cook!
  • Delicious is a unique seven banquet!

    5
    By Wisknitcat
    A fabulous book that leads you through the food Mecca of NYC with an under-taste of history and the challenges and triumphs of a woman's personal voyage of self-exploration.
  • Excellent

    4
    By KelseyNoble
    Well told, beautiful descriptions, warm characters, good plot. The book ran a little long in my opinion but this is the perfect read for a foodie. Also, loved the history that the author shared of World War 2, food, architecture and how gay people were treated in the 50s and 60s. Excellent book all around, would definitely recommend this one!
  • Delightful and delicious

    5
    By KWells I Phone
    I read this in one sitting. Wonderful,intriguing characters. Such fun. Well worth the read.
  • Wonderful

    5
    By Inuyasha lover
    This was a wonderful book. Like experiencing a great meal in a beautiful setting, this book takes you on a trip with good friends. I loved it and hope that Mrs. Reichl will write more books. This was wonderfully satisfying but I know I will crave more- as you would an incredible meal. Thank you.
  • Disappointing

    2
    By Julie@apple
    I have really enjoyed Ruth Reichl’s writing in the past: Tender at the Bone was a favorite memoir of mine in the food writing genre. Unfortunately, her first venture into fiction disappoints. The storyline feels like a hodgepodge of anecdotes/experiences from her own life with a layer of very transparent make-believe on top. The letters written by the narrator as well as those written by the girl, Lulu, from the past, which are sprinkled throughout the book, while initially cute, become a distraction, and as a reader you wish she would just get on with the story rather than drawing out the „suspense“ for so long. The book also often feels like it is written for a 13-year old girl, and it’s hard to imagine it’s meant to appeal to adult audiences. The prose often feels forced - carefully crafted sentences that feel and read as such. Wish I could be more positive, but I wasn’t pulled into this one like I have been to her other writing.