If you loved Cooking for Picasso by Camille Aubray, you’re likely a fan of historical fiction with a culinary twist. This genre beautifully blends the art of storytelling with the rich sensory experiences of food, often set against intriguing historical backdrops. Below, I’ve curated a list of 15 books that will transport you to different times and places, all while tantalizing your taste buds.
Books Similar to Cooking for Picasso
1. The Lost Vintage
In The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah, wine expert Kate returns to her family’s vineyard in Burgundy. As she uncovers a hidden room filled with valuable wine and a secret diary, she delves into her family’s history during World War II. This novel is recommended for its rich blend of history, romance, and the intricate world of winemaking.
2. The School of Essential Ingredients
Erica Bauermeister’s The School of Essential Ingredients follows a group of students in a cooking class led by the enigmatic Lillian. Each character’s personal journey is explored through the lens of cooking, making it a heartwarming read. Fans of character-driven stories and the transformative power of food will enjoy this book.
3. The Hundred-Foot Journey
The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais tells the story of Hassan Haji, who moves from India to France and opens a restaurant across the street from a Michelin-starred establishment. This novel is a delightful exploration of cultural clashes, culinary passion, and the journey to self-discovery.
4. The Coincidence of Coconut Cake
In The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy E. Reichert, chef Lou Johnson’s life takes a turn when a scathing review by a food critic threatens her restaurant. This charming romantic comedy is perfect for those who enjoy lighthearted reads with a delicious twist.
5. Kitchens of the Great Midwest
J. Ryan Stradal’s Kitchens of the Great Midwest follows the life of Eva Thorvald, a chef with a once-in-a-generation palate. The novel is structured around different Midwestern dishes, offering a unique and flavorful narrative. Readers will appreciate its heartfelt storytelling and culinary creativity.
6. Delicious!
Delicious! by Ruth Reichl is a novel about Billie Breslin, who discovers a hidden trove of letters while working at a food magazine. These letters reveal the story of a young girl during World War II. This book is recommended for its enchanting blend of history, mystery, and culinary delights.
7. The Recipe Club
Andrea Israel and Nancy Garfinkel’s The Recipe Club is a novel about lifelong friends who reconnect through their shared love of cooking. The story is told through letters and recipes, making it a unique and engaging read. Fans of friendship tales and culinary adventures will enjoy this book.
8. The Secret, Book & Scone Society
The Secret, Book & Scone Society by Ellery Adams introduces readers to a group of women who find solace and friendship through books and baking. This cozy mystery is perfect for those who enjoy a good whodunit with a side of heartwarming camaraderie and delectable treats.
9. Like Water for Chocolate
Laura Esquivel’s Like Water for Chocolate is a magical realism novel set in Mexico. It tells the story of Tita, whose emotions infuse her cooking with magical effects. This book is recommended for its enchanting narrative and its rich, sensory descriptions of food.
10. The Little French Bistro
In The Little French Bistro by Nina George, Marianne decides to start anew in a quaint French village after a failed suicide attempt. There, she discovers the healing power of food and community. This novel is a heartwarming tale of second chances and culinary delights.
11. The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living
The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller follows pastry chef Olivia Rawlings as she escapes to a small Vermont town after a public mishap. She finds solace and a new beginning in the local inn’s kitchen. This book is perfect for those who enjoy stories of reinvention and the charm of small-town life.
12. The Last Chinese Chef
Nicole Mones’ The Last Chinese Chef is about food writer Maggie McElroy, who travels to China to settle her late husband’s affairs and ends up discovering the world of Chinese cuisine. This novel is recommended for its rich cultural insights and its celebration of culinary traditions.
13. A Taste for Vengeance
In A Taste for Vengeance by Martin Walker, Chief of Police Bruno Courrèges investigates a murder linked to a cooking school in the French countryside. This mystery novel is perfect for those who enjoy a good detective story with a side of gourmet food.
14. The Language of Flowers
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a touching story about Victoria Jones, a young woman who communicates through the Victorian language of flowers. While not strictly about food, this novel’s sensory richness and emotional depth will appeal to fans of Cooking for Picasso.
15. The Love Goddess’ Cooking School
Melissa Senate’s The Love Goddess’ Cooking School follows Holly Maguire as she takes over her grandmother’s cooking school in Maine. Through teaching, Holly learns about love, loss, and the magic of family recipes. This book is a delightful read for those who believe in the healing power of food and love.
These novels offer a delectable mix of history, romance, mystery, and culinary delights, perfect for any fan of Cooking for Picasso. Happy reading!