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Chocolat #0
Виан
В една топла юлска вечер Виан разпръсва праха на майка си в Ню Йорк и се оставя на променливия вятър, който я отвежда във френския крайбрежен град Марсилия. За първи път в живота си тя държи бъдещето в собствените си ръце.
Виан започва работа в малко местно бистро, макар и да знае, че не може да остане там задълго: когато детето ѝ се роди след няколко месеца, ще се наложи да си тръгне. Скоро обаче младата жена открива радостта от готвенето, добавяйки по мъничко сладко-горчив шоколад към всяка рецепта – една от магиите на този пълен с тайни град.
И все пак Виан Роше не забравя предупреждението на майка си. Тя добре знае, че е опасно да разкрива истинските желания на хората около себе си и че трябва да избяга от тези калдъръмени улички, преди да е станало твърде късно…
„Виан“ - предисторията на завладяващия и обичан в цял свят „Шоколад“ от Джоан Харис.
Виан започва работа в малко местно бистро, макар и да знае, че не може да остане там задълго: когато детето ѝ се роди след няколко месеца, ще се наложи да си тръгне. Скоро обаче младата жена открива радостта от готвенето, добавяйки по мъничко сладко-горчив шоколад към всяка рецепта – една от магиите на този пълен с тайни град.
И все пак Виан Роше не забравя предупреждението на майка си. Тя добре знае, че е опасно да разкрива истинските желания на хората около себе си и че трябва да избяга от тези калдъръмени улички, преди да е станало твърде късно…
„Виан“ - предисторията на завладяващия и обичан в цял свят „Шоколад“ от Джоан Харис.
360 pages, Paperback
First published May 22, 2025
470 people are currently reading
3241 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Harris
124 books6,272 followersJoanne Harris is also known as Joanne M. Harris
Joanne Harris is an Anglo-French author, whose books include fourteen novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology and fantasy. She has also written a DR WHO novella for the BBC, has scripted guest episodes for the game ZOMBIES, RUN!, and is currently engaged in a number of musical theatre projects as well as developing an original drama for television.
In 2000, her 1999 novel CHOCOLAT was adapted to the screen, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. She is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and in 2022 was awarded an OBE by the Queen.
Her hobbies are listed in Who's Who as 'mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion'. She also spends too much time on Twitter; plays flute and bass guitar in a band first formed when she was 16; and works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.
Joanne Harris is an Anglo-French author, whose books include fourteen novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology and fantasy. She has also written a DR WHO novella for the BBC, has scripted guest episodes for the game ZOMBIES, RUN!, and is currently engaged in a number of musical theatre projects as well as developing an original drama for television.
In 2000, her 1999 novel CHOCOLAT was adapted to the screen, starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. She is an honorary Fellow of St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and in 2022 was awarded an OBE by the Queen.
Her hobbies are listed in Who's Who as 'mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion'. She also spends too much time on Twitter; plays flute and bass guitar in a band first formed when she was 16; and works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.
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September 3, 2025
Vianne by Joanne Harris
Narrated by the author
11 hours 26 minutes at 1x, 7 hours 37 minutes at 1.5x
We return to the world of “Chocolat” with this long-awaited PREQUEL which begins six years before Vianne opens her scandalous chocolaterie in the small French village of Lansquenet.
After scattering her mother’s ashes in New York, Vianne follows the “call of the changing winds”-just as her mother always had. This time, they will carry her to the French coastal city of Marseille.
With the future in her own hands, for the first time, she is trying to come to terms with her pregnancy, knowing that by the time her child is born, the turning winds will beckon once again.
But, for now, she finds a room, and a job, with a kindly Widower, who shares his love of cooking with her, through the recipes from his late wife’s cookbook, filled with personal notes in the margins, which teach her just as much as the recipes do.
“ RECIPES ARE MORE THAN JUST WORDS ON PAPER”
She isn’t supposed to change a thing, but Vianne has never been much of a rule follower.
After befriending two locals who are working to open a chocolaterie, she begins to make the recipes her own by adding a touch of bittersweet chocolate spices, to them, as she has learned that chocolate has the power to unlock secrets.
Armed with her mother’s Tarot cards, the ability to see people’s auras, and now CHOCOLATE, she is able to dispense what people need, by offering them what she believes will be their “favorite” confection.
But, when her work is done-it will be time to move on.
I have to admit, prior to listening to this book, I had only watched the 2000 film, “Chocolat” starring Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench and Johnny Depp. I had no idea that Vianne Rocher’s story had continued on in several books. So, this PREQUEL was the perfect way to reacquaint myself with the story.
“To Understand a Person TODAY, you must know who they were in the PAST”
I immediately rewatched the movie after finishing this book, and realized that I didn’t understand UNTIL listening to this MAGICAL story, that Vianne was blessed with more than just good intuition.
It isn’t necessary to have read Chocolat or to have seen the film-this is the perfect place to start!
I was SWEPT AWAY by the descriptive prose, as DELICIOUS as your favorite chocolate, and am now looking forward to continuing this journey with Vianne.
All the stars!
Available September 2, 2026
Thank You to Dreamscape Media for the gifted audiobook provided through NetGalley shelf. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Narrated by the author
11 hours 26 minutes at 1x, 7 hours 37 minutes at 1.5x
We return to the world of “Chocolat” with this long-awaited PREQUEL which begins six years before Vianne opens her scandalous chocolaterie in the small French village of Lansquenet.
After scattering her mother’s ashes in New York, Vianne follows the “call of the changing winds”-just as her mother always had. This time, they will carry her to the French coastal city of Marseille.
With the future in her own hands, for the first time, she is trying to come to terms with her pregnancy, knowing that by the time her child is born, the turning winds will beckon once again.
But, for now, she finds a room, and a job, with a kindly Widower, who shares his love of cooking with her, through the recipes from his late wife’s cookbook, filled with personal notes in the margins, which teach her just as much as the recipes do.
“ RECIPES ARE MORE THAN JUST WORDS ON PAPER”
She isn’t supposed to change a thing, but Vianne has never been much of a rule follower.
After befriending two locals who are working to open a chocolaterie, she begins to make the recipes her own by adding a touch of bittersweet chocolate spices, to them, as she has learned that chocolate has the power to unlock secrets.
Armed with her mother’s Tarot cards, the ability to see people’s auras, and now CHOCOLATE, she is able to dispense what people need, by offering them what she believes will be their “favorite” confection.
But, when her work is done-it will be time to move on.
I have to admit, prior to listening to this book, I had only watched the 2000 film, “Chocolat” starring Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench and Johnny Depp. I had no idea that Vianne Rocher’s story had continued on in several books. So, this PREQUEL was the perfect way to reacquaint myself with the story.
“To Understand a Person TODAY, you must know who they were in the PAST”
I immediately rewatched the movie after finishing this book, and realized that I didn’t understand UNTIL listening to this MAGICAL story, that Vianne was blessed with more than just good intuition.
It isn’t necessary to have read Chocolat or to have seen the film-this is the perfect place to start!
I was SWEPT AWAY by the descriptive prose, as DELICIOUS as your favorite chocolate, and am now looking forward to continuing this journey with Vianne.
All the stars!
Available September 2, 2026
Thank You to Dreamscape Media for the gifted audiobook provided through NetGalley shelf. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
October 3, 2025
Hard to believe it's been over 25 years since a woman called Vianne Rocher found her way into our hearts.
Chocolat (1999) by Joanne Harris is the story of a single mother, who arrives in the French village Lansquenet with her young daughter and opens a chocolate shop.
Let's just say, village life and its inhabitants are never quite the same.
An Oscar-nominated film adaptation in 2000, starring Juliette Binoche, Johnny Depp, Judi Dench, and Alfred Molina further established Chocolat as a modern-day classic.
Harris' newly released prequel is the story of how Vianne became Vianne, how she learns to cook, and discovers her talent for creating magical chocolates.
The story begins in 1993 — six years before she opens her scandalous chocolaterie — in the French coastal city of Marseille.
A 21-year-old Sylviane Rochas arrives with very little money, a baby on the way, and seeking a fresh start after the death of her beloved mother.
Living as a gypsy, a traveler without a fixed address, is all she's known but it's a lifestyle that keeps Sylviane perpetually on the move, and she is looking to put down roots before the baby arrives.
Sylviane emanates joie de vivre and magic in her blend of tarot cards, runes, rituals, and small spells that harmlessly charm.
It doesn't take her long to settle in to Marseille and find her community.
Harris' descriptive style only enhances the flavorful plot: our sense of taste, smell, color are each triggered in turn.
This is a novel worth taking your time, savoring it even though you are desperate for the next page and mouthful.
Bon appetit, mes amis!
Chocolat (1999) by Joanne Harris is the story of a single mother, who arrives in the French village Lansquenet with her young daughter and opens a chocolate shop.
Let's just say, village life and its inhabitants are never quite the same.
An Oscar-nominated film adaptation in 2000, starring Juliette Binoche, Johnny Depp, Judi Dench, and Alfred Molina further established Chocolat as a modern-day classic.
Harris' newly released prequel is the story of how Vianne became Vianne, how she learns to cook, and discovers her talent for creating magical chocolates.
The story begins in 1993 — six years before she opens her scandalous chocolaterie — in the French coastal city of Marseille.
A 21-year-old Sylviane Rochas arrives with very little money, a baby on the way, and seeking a fresh start after the death of her beloved mother.
Living as a gypsy, a traveler without a fixed address, is all she's known but it's a lifestyle that keeps Sylviane perpetually on the move, and she is looking to put down roots before the baby arrives.
Sylviane emanates joie de vivre and magic in her blend of tarot cards, runes, rituals, and small spells that harmlessly charm.
It doesn't take her long to settle in to Marseille and find her community.
Harris' descriptive style only enhances the flavorful plot: our sense of taste, smell, color are each triggered in turn.
This is a novel worth taking your time, savoring it even though you are desperate for the next page and mouthful.
Bon appetit, mes amis!
November 8, 2025
“Spice to ease a restless heart:
Take cardamom, cinnamon; vanilla, star anise, *chilli.
Burn a eucalyptus leaf to dispel worries and unquiet thoughts.
For true love:
Light a red candle at midnight on Midsummer’s Eve.
Add the heart of a pomegranate, a feather from the breast of a dove.
Say his name three times, with love, and love will surely come to you.”
Restless Heart. True love. Sweet spells? Or, is that the chocolate?
This is the prequel to the author’s book, “Chocolat” first published on March 4, 1999.
For me, I remember the movie (released in the United States in December, 2000) more than the book. I appreciated how it captured viewer’s hearts with its magical presence. It boasted Juliette Binoche cleverly playing the leading role of Vianne. Binoche, since 1996, was already known for her academy-award winning role in “The English Patient.” And, with this movie she had an incredible supporting cast that included fellow actors: Johnny Depp, Lena Olin, Alfred Molina, Judi Dench, Leslie Caron and Carrie-Ann Moss.
But regardless of those memories, it was my Goodreads friend, Jayme’s review, that enticed me to read this one. Her captivating review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
There is something lyrical and melodic about the author’s words. (I have shared some quotable moments below.) The words have a way of capturing readers, as Vianne begins to share her world, as she sees it and experiences it. Readers can’t help but find themselves enchanted by the descriptive prose.
So, what was Vianne like before ‘chocolat?’ This prequel gives insights into Vianne as she begins with her move from New York, after her mother’s death, to Marseille, France, as a pregnant woman.
“Grief is love with nowhere to go.”
Soon, she comes upon Louis who extends her room and board if she will help cook at his bistro. He offers up his late wife Margot’s recipe book, which Vianne takes to heart. She also makes some friends with chocolatiers who guide her in the art of making chocolate dishes, which she takes on wholeheartedly.
There is a sense of magic in the air for Vianne which she senses with her cooking, and the words that seem to whisper to her, giving her a look into pasts, present and future. What gift is Vianne holding within herself? How will it guide her?
“And now, in the confessional, I understand the choice I must make. Security, or the call of the wind. The chocolaterie, or the highway. My little Anouk in a railway station, late at night, in some nameless town, or a kitchen with knives of my own, and polished copper pans on the wall? And each decision comes at a price; freedom, or discovery.”
Freedom or discovery?
This is a story of magical realism fraught with questions, searching, and hope. Beautifully written, this prequel shares Vianne’s journey to self-discovery, and chocolate. And, for anyone available to magic, the pages are now open.
*Chilli – actual country cultural spelling offered in book.
Take cardamom, cinnamon; vanilla, star anise, *chilli.
Burn a eucalyptus leaf to dispel worries and unquiet thoughts.
For true love:
Light a red candle at midnight on Midsummer’s Eve.
Add the heart of a pomegranate, a feather from the breast of a dove.
Say his name three times, with love, and love will surely come to you.”
Restless Heart. True love. Sweet spells? Or, is that the chocolate?
This is the prequel to the author’s book, “Chocolat” first published on March 4, 1999.
For me, I remember the movie (released in the United States in December, 2000) more than the book. I appreciated how it captured viewer’s hearts with its magical presence. It boasted Juliette Binoche cleverly playing the leading role of Vianne. Binoche, since 1996, was already known for her academy-award winning role in “The English Patient.” And, with this movie she had an incredible supporting cast that included fellow actors: Johnny Depp, Lena Olin, Alfred Molina, Judi Dench, Leslie Caron and Carrie-Ann Moss.
But regardless of those memories, it was my Goodreads friend, Jayme’s review, that enticed me to read this one. Her captivating review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
There is something lyrical and melodic about the author’s words. (I have shared some quotable moments below.) The words have a way of capturing readers, as Vianne begins to share her world, as she sees it and experiences it. Readers can’t help but find themselves enchanted by the descriptive prose.
So, what was Vianne like before ‘chocolat?’ This prequel gives insights into Vianne as she begins with her move from New York, after her mother’s death, to Marseille, France, as a pregnant woman.
“Grief is love with nowhere to go.”
Soon, she comes upon Louis who extends her room and board if she will help cook at his bistro. He offers up his late wife Margot’s recipe book, which Vianne takes to heart. She also makes some friends with chocolatiers who guide her in the art of making chocolate dishes, which she takes on wholeheartedly.
There is a sense of magic in the air for Vianne which she senses with her cooking, and the words that seem to whisper to her, giving her a look into pasts, present and future. What gift is Vianne holding within herself? How will it guide her?
“And now, in the confessional, I understand the choice I must make. Security, or the call of the wind. The chocolaterie, or the highway. My little Anouk in a railway station, late at night, in some nameless town, or a kitchen with knives of my own, and polished copper pans on the wall? And each decision comes at a price; freedom, or discovery.”
Freedom or discovery?
This is a story of magical realism fraught with questions, searching, and hope. Beautifully written, this prequel shares Vianne’s journey to self-discovery, and chocolate. And, for anyone available to magic, the pages are now open.
*Chilli – actual country cultural spelling offered in book.
September 4, 2025
EXCERPT: 22 July 1993
I scattered my mother's ashes in New York on the night of 4 July. I remember the scent of the harbour, and the warm wind over the sunbaked stone, and the sweet nostalgic trace in the air of pretzels, and doughboys, and garbage, and smoke, and the hot, sharp, dangerous scent of fireworks from the booming sky.
After that I was done with New York. That had been her dream, not mine. I spent our last dollars on a cheap flight to Marseille, and found myself three days later on a very different harbour front, looking out over the Mediterranean. The heat was the same, but there was a breeze, and a scent of salt and ozone coming from the water. I had the clothes I stood in and a single canvas travel bag, containing my papers, my wallet, a change of clothes, my mother's ring and the little toiletries kit they hand out in economy class. A battered pocket-size map book of France and my mother's Tarot cards in their sandalwood box. I had barely five hundred francs, no family, and nowhere to go. The name on my passport said Sylviane Rochas. Time for a change of scenery.
My mother and I have always kept largely to the cities. It is easier to disappear in a city, she used to say. Easier to be no one. Easier to pass unseen. I never asked her why she longed so much for oblivion. But cities are crowded; impersonal; filled with people passing through. Cities are pockets to be picked; cheap hotels left without paying the bill; cheap food; secondhand clothes; no one asking questions. A child alone in a city provokes no curiosity unless she is clearly in distress. And I was a resourceful child who knew where to go; how to find things; how to source free food in markets; how to trade work for necessities. But now, for the first time, I was truly alone. My mother was gone, and so were her fears; the fear of staying too long in one place; of putting down roots; of the shadow. Of the shadow most of all - the Man in Black that pursued us. All gone now; all scattered into the breeze of the Hudson on that fourth of July. I was free.
ABOUT 'VIANNE': Secrets. Chocolate. A touch of magic.
On the evening of July 4th, a young woman scatters her mother’s ashes in New York and follows the call of the changing winds to the French coastal city of Marseille.
For the first time in her life, Vianne feels in control of her future. Charming her way into a job as a waitress, she tries to fit in, make friends, and come to terms with her pregnancy, knowing that by the time her child is born, the turning wind will have changed once again.
As she discovers the joy of cooking for the very first time, making local recipes her own with the addition of bittersweet chocolate spices, she learns that this humble magic has the power to unlock secrets.
And yet her gift comes at a price. And Vianne has a secret of her own; a secret that threatens everything. . .
MY THOUGHTS: It is many years since I saw the movie of Chocolat and even longer (well before I joined Goodreads in 2014) since I read the book, but Vianne has brought it all back to me and has only increased my love for and understanding of Chocolat.
Full of ambiance and charm, Vianne enchanted me with the main character's determination, going against all that she had been taught by her mother, to practice small kindnesses; to make the world a better place.
I love her little rituals, the way she can see a person's colours (a gift I would love to have), the way she recognises that even inanimate objects have stories to tell if we are observant enough. I love her kind heart, her recognition of people's pain and her desire to help them overcome it, or at least learn to live with it.
And there is a mystery surrounding Vianne's own past. Why would her mother not settle anywhere? Why were they constantly changing their names? And just who or what is the Black Man of whom she was so afraid?
Listening to Vianne, superbly narrated by the author, Joanne Harris, was a magical experience. I sincerely hope that the rest of this series is available in the same format with the same narrator. I am hooked.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#Vianne #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR & NARRATOR: JOANNE HARRIS is also known as Joanne M. Harris
Joanne Harris is an Anglo-French author, whose books include fourteen novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology and fantasy.
Her hobbies are listed in Who's Who as 'mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion'. She also spends too much time on Twitter; plays flute and bass guitar in a band first formed when she was 16; and works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Dreamscape Media via NetGalley for providing an audiobook of Vianne written and narrated by Joanne Harris for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I scattered my mother's ashes in New York on the night of 4 July. I remember the scent of the harbour, and the warm wind over the sunbaked stone, and the sweet nostalgic trace in the air of pretzels, and doughboys, and garbage, and smoke, and the hot, sharp, dangerous scent of fireworks from the booming sky.
After that I was done with New York. That had been her dream, not mine. I spent our last dollars on a cheap flight to Marseille, and found myself three days later on a very different harbour front, looking out over the Mediterranean. The heat was the same, but there was a breeze, and a scent of salt and ozone coming from the water. I had the clothes I stood in and a single canvas travel bag, containing my papers, my wallet, a change of clothes, my mother's ring and the little toiletries kit they hand out in economy class. A battered pocket-size map book of France and my mother's Tarot cards in their sandalwood box. I had barely five hundred francs, no family, and nowhere to go. The name on my passport said Sylviane Rochas. Time for a change of scenery.
My mother and I have always kept largely to the cities. It is easier to disappear in a city, she used to say. Easier to be no one. Easier to pass unseen. I never asked her why she longed so much for oblivion. But cities are crowded; impersonal; filled with people passing through. Cities are pockets to be picked; cheap hotels left without paying the bill; cheap food; secondhand clothes; no one asking questions. A child alone in a city provokes no curiosity unless she is clearly in distress. And I was a resourceful child who knew where to go; how to find things; how to source free food in markets; how to trade work for necessities. But now, for the first time, I was truly alone. My mother was gone, and so were her fears; the fear of staying too long in one place; of putting down roots; of the shadow. Of the shadow most of all - the Man in Black that pursued us. All gone now; all scattered into the breeze of the Hudson on that fourth of July. I was free.
ABOUT 'VIANNE': Secrets. Chocolate. A touch of magic.
On the evening of July 4th, a young woman scatters her mother’s ashes in New York and follows the call of the changing winds to the French coastal city of Marseille.
For the first time in her life, Vianne feels in control of her future. Charming her way into a job as a waitress, she tries to fit in, make friends, and come to terms with her pregnancy, knowing that by the time her child is born, the turning wind will have changed once again.
As she discovers the joy of cooking for the very first time, making local recipes her own with the addition of bittersweet chocolate spices, she learns that this humble magic has the power to unlock secrets.
And yet her gift comes at a price. And Vianne has a secret of her own; a secret that threatens everything. . .
MY THOUGHTS: It is many years since I saw the movie of Chocolat and even longer (well before I joined Goodreads in 2014) since I read the book, but Vianne has brought it all back to me and has only increased my love for and understanding of Chocolat.
Full of ambiance and charm, Vianne enchanted me with the main character's determination, going against all that she had been taught by her mother, to practice small kindnesses; to make the world a better place.
I love her little rituals, the way she can see a person's colours (a gift I would love to have), the way she recognises that even inanimate objects have stories to tell if we are observant enough. I love her kind heart, her recognition of people's pain and her desire to help them overcome it, or at least learn to live with it.
And there is a mystery surrounding Vianne's own past. Why would her mother not settle anywhere? Why were they constantly changing their names? And just who or what is the Black Man of whom she was so afraid?
Listening to Vianne, superbly narrated by the author, Joanne Harris, was a magical experience. I sincerely hope that the rest of this series is available in the same format with the same narrator. I am hooked.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#Vianne #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR & NARRATOR: JOANNE HARRIS is also known as Joanne M. Harris
Joanne Harris is an Anglo-French author, whose books include fourteen novels, two cookbooks and many short stories. Her work is extremely diverse, covering aspects of magic realism, suspense, historical fiction, mythology and fantasy.
Her hobbies are listed in Who's Who as 'mooching, lounging, strutting, strumming, priest-baiting and quiet subversion'. She also spends too much time on Twitter; plays flute and bass guitar in a band first formed when she was 16; and works from a shed in her garden at her home in Yorkshire.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Dreamscape Media via NetGalley for providing an audiobook of Vianne written and narrated by Joanne Harris for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
April 30, 2025
The prequel to Chocolat
Sylviane (Viane) Rochas scatters her mother’s ashes in New York and decides to head to France travelling with few possessions, including Maman’s Tarot cards. She lands in Marseille three days later. Where will the wind take her? Bordeaux or Montpelier, perhaps? She studies a map whose pages reveal part of the river Baise with its bastides*. There, to her surprise is one called Vianne. It’s a sign. Perhaps she’ll head there and maybe find herself along the way? There are omens and signs everywhere but first, food and a bowl of bouillabaisse hits the spot. She chats to the bistro owner, Louis Martin, who is concerned she has nowhere to sleep and he offers a reasonably priced room for a night or two. In need of a job as funds are low, she persuades Louis to give her a go in his kitchen and he agrees. She needs some security as it’s not just herself she now needs to consider…
Joanne Harris is a sublime writer who creates magic with her words and in her stories. This is a prequel I never knew I needed but realise I/we so did. I love the character of Vianne, her strength, resilience, her magic and sometimes her vulnerability. She’s quick to learn and very resourceful as here she not only learns to cook but this is where the story of chocolat begins and I love how that plays out and can almost smell the aroma in the air. There are other terrific characters too, Louis, gruff, grieving, sometimes angry but he and his late wife (I’ll say no more) teach her a lot. There’s a very good story there, which Vianne follows with her heart. Then there’s Guy and Mahmed who introduce her to the historic world of cacao and finally there’s Stéphane who she meets when down on her luck. Perhaps I should mention Emile? Maybe not!
This is a novel about transformations and there are numerous examples of that. It’s also about identity, control and destiny, which way will the wind blow Vianne? It’s rich in atmosphere with the sights and sounds of Marseille springing vividly to life, the markets, the bistro and the backstreets. It’s mouthwatering too at times with magical recipes learned and created. I love too how everyday objects have tales to tell. Sylviane gains control of her life and becomes Vianne and glimpses her future by assigns, colours, omens, rituals, stories especially of chocolate and of course, the other present wind. At times it’s emotional and moving, the sadness and grief but also joy and hopeful optimism.
It’s safe to say, I love every word of it. Fantastique, merveilleuse Vianne et chocolat - who can resist?
With thanks to NetGalley and particularly to Orion Publishing Group for the much appreciated early copy of the book.
•bastides are medieval fortified towns particularly found in SW France.
Sylviane (Viane) Rochas scatters her mother’s ashes in New York and decides to head to France travelling with few possessions, including Maman’s Tarot cards. She lands in Marseille three days later. Where will the wind take her? Bordeaux or Montpelier, perhaps? She studies a map whose pages reveal part of the river Baise with its bastides*. There, to her surprise is one called Vianne. It’s a sign. Perhaps she’ll head there and maybe find herself along the way? There are omens and signs everywhere but first, food and a bowl of bouillabaisse hits the spot. She chats to the bistro owner, Louis Martin, who is concerned she has nowhere to sleep and he offers a reasonably priced room for a night or two. In need of a job as funds are low, she persuades Louis to give her a go in his kitchen and he agrees. She needs some security as it’s not just herself she now needs to consider…
Joanne Harris is a sublime writer who creates magic with her words and in her stories. This is a prequel I never knew I needed but realise I/we so did. I love the character of Vianne, her strength, resilience, her magic and sometimes her vulnerability. She’s quick to learn and very resourceful as here she not only learns to cook but this is where the story of chocolat begins and I love how that plays out and can almost smell the aroma in the air. There are other terrific characters too, Louis, gruff, grieving, sometimes angry but he and his late wife (I’ll say no more) teach her a lot. There’s a very good story there, which Vianne follows with her heart. Then there’s Guy and Mahmed who introduce her to the historic world of cacao and finally there’s Stéphane who she meets when down on her luck. Perhaps I should mention Emile? Maybe not!
This is a novel about transformations and there are numerous examples of that. It’s also about identity, control and destiny, which way will the wind blow Vianne? It’s rich in atmosphere with the sights and sounds of Marseille springing vividly to life, the markets, the bistro and the backstreets. It’s mouthwatering too at times with magical recipes learned and created. I love too how everyday objects have tales to tell. Sylviane gains control of her life and becomes Vianne and glimpses her future by assigns, colours, omens, rituals, stories especially of chocolate and of course, the other present wind. At times it’s emotional and moving, the sadness and grief but also joy and hopeful optimism.
It’s safe to say, I love every word of it. Fantastique, merveilleuse Vianne et chocolat - who can resist?
With thanks to NetGalley and particularly to Orion Publishing Group for the much appreciated early copy of the book.
•bastides are medieval fortified towns particularly found in SW France.
June 5, 2025
This is EXCITING 🤩 Especially, for any fans of the ‘Chocolat’ series…
25 years since the first book was written, we finally get the ‘prequel’ to the Chocolat series. And more importantly, the long-awaited story of Vianne Rocher! I LOVED Vianne’s character in all 4 of the previous books and was so excited to FINALLY hear the backstory to her unique and unusual character. She is someone you will never forget…
This story is set 6 years before Vianne opens her scandalous chocolaterie in the small French village of Lansquenet. She is only 21 at the time and pregnant with her first child. Just arrived in Marseille to start a new life, after the death of her mother. A mother that had always kept them on the run. But Vianne is free to live her own life now: ‘I need to learn how to be Vianne. How to live my own life instead of the one she chose for me.’ 🙌🏼🥰💖
She quickly charms her way into a waitressing job in a local bistro. This is the setting where the magic begins to unfold, and secrets unravel…Here, she meets two people that will prove key to how her life unfolds - Louis and Guy. They both help her to discover a joy of cooking, and her true calling - CHOCOLATE 🍫
‘Change reminds us we’re alive. Only death never changes.’
While Vianne dreams of a future for herself and her baby, she also finds herself in the middle of a deep dark family secret that may change the course of lives forever….🤐
"There is no gift without a loss. The world demands its balance. Be careful what you dream of, Vianne"
AH, this beautiful book…it gave me all the same vibes as the other 4 in the series. This might seem obvious, however, with the previous 3 being written so long ago, I didn’t know what to expect. But, this enticing story is both heartwarming and exciting. Expertly written by one of my favourite authors - Joanne Harris; I have read many of her books and she has never failed me yet!
I savoured every word of this delightful book, like you would savour the last square of silky smooth chocolate 🍫😍🥰❤️ It has the same effect on your heart and soul; warming you from the inside out 😌
A true treasure of a book 💝 If you haven’t read this series before, please do your a favour and take pleasure in reading it 🥰💖
"We don't just travel on roads and seas. We travel in stories and in dreams."
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
25 years since the first book was written, we finally get the ‘prequel’ to the Chocolat series. And more importantly, the long-awaited story of Vianne Rocher! I LOVED Vianne’s character in all 4 of the previous books and was so excited to FINALLY hear the backstory to her unique and unusual character. She is someone you will never forget…
This story is set 6 years before Vianne opens her scandalous chocolaterie in the small French village of Lansquenet. She is only 21 at the time and pregnant with her first child. Just arrived in Marseille to start a new life, after the death of her mother. A mother that had always kept them on the run. But Vianne is free to live her own life now: ‘I need to learn how to be Vianne. How to live my own life instead of the one she chose for me.’ 🙌🏼🥰💖
She quickly charms her way into a waitressing job in a local bistro. This is the setting where the magic begins to unfold, and secrets unravel…Here, she meets two people that will prove key to how her life unfolds - Louis and Guy. They both help her to discover a joy of cooking, and her true calling - CHOCOLATE 🍫
‘Change reminds us we’re alive. Only death never changes.’
While Vianne dreams of a future for herself and her baby, she also finds herself in the middle of a deep dark family secret that may change the course of lives forever….🤐
"There is no gift without a loss. The world demands its balance. Be careful what you dream of, Vianne"
AH, this beautiful book…it gave me all the same vibes as the other 4 in the series. This might seem obvious, however, with the previous 3 being written so long ago, I didn’t know what to expect. But, this enticing story is both heartwarming and exciting. Expertly written by one of my favourite authors - Joanne Harris; I have read many of her books and she has never failed me yet!
I savoured every word of this delightful book, like you would savour the last square of silky smooth chocolate 🍫😍🥰❤️ It has the same effect on your heart and soul; warming you from the inside out 😌
A true treasure of a book 💝 If you haven’t read this series before, please do your a favour and take pleasure in reading it 🥰💖
"We don't just travel on roads and seas. We travel in stories and in dreams."
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 20, 2025
" We don't just travel on roads and seas.. We travel in stories and in dreams."
"There is no gift without a loss. The world demands its balance. Be careful what you dream of, Vianne"
Twenty five years ago Joanne Harris introduced us to the world of Vianne Rocher in the village of Lasquenet with her magical skills at creating chocolates and weaving herself into the lives of others by trying to bring harmony into their lives. Subsequently, three other books followed following Vianne's life and her preternatural talents.
Now in 2025 we have a "prequel" - the life of Vianne before Lasquenet. This is again is a hypnotically magical and a moving story about love, tragedy, friendship and the desire to live freely unencumbered by relationships that trap. A book about the stories of people but also hopes and dreams - but are they all that we wish for?
Vianne is now twenty and pregnant and finds herself in the city of Marseilles after scattering her mother's ashes on the Hudson Bay in New York. She finds work in a small cafe where she is taken in by Louis - a man haunted by grief. She is taught to cook following the recipes from his late wife's cookbook which exudes an enchantment and soon Vianne is putting the pieces together of Louis's life. She befriends the locals in the cafe and meets Guy and Mahmed- two chocolatiers - who recognising a lost soul take her under their wing teaching her their skills. But amidst these new environment, she feels haunted by her mother's voice and the mysterious Khamaseen.
But Vianne feels trapped .. her life has been one of movement and with a baby due in a few months , should she make a home with this community or leave- forever on the move and wary The Man in Black. and follow the wind.
Joanne Harris' prose is pitch perfect- its does feel like being transported back twenty five years- the writing is hypnotic. Vianne is a truly unique creation- her synaesthesia of seeing the moods of people through colours around them and knowing what foods and spices could enhance their lives is as enchanting as ever. The voice of Vianne is distinct and is instantly captured from the first page for those familiar with the other books.
This is a wonderful read- escapism and bewitching. The smells and tastes exude off the page. A brilliant prequel- but there are more stories to tell- especially about Vianne's mother and her choices to take Vianne on this never ending journey through her childhood.
Dive in to the world of chocolate, coffee and food and rediscover Vianne.
"There is no gift without a loss. The world demands its balance. Be careful what you dream of, Vianne"
Twenty five years ago Joanne Harris introduced us to the world of Vianne Rocher in the village of Lasquenet with her magical skills at creating chocolates and weaving herself into the lives of others by trying to bring harmony into their lives. Subsequently, three other books followed following Vianne's life and her preternatural talents.
Now in 2025 we have a "prequel" - the life of Vianne before Lasquenet. This is again is a hypnotically magical and a moving story about love, tragedy, friendship and the desire to live freely unencumbered by relationships that trap. A book about the stories of people but also hopes and dreams - but are they all that we wish for?
Vianne is now twenty and pregnant and finds herself in the city of Marseilles after scattering her mother's ashes on the Hudson Bay in New York. She finds work in a small cafe where she is taken in by Louis - a man haunted by grief. She is taught to cook following the recipes from his late wife's cookbook which exudes an enchantment and soon Vianne is putting the pieces together of Louis's life. She befriends the locals in the cafe and meets Guy and Mahmed- two chocolatiers - who recognising a lost soul take her under their wing teaching her their skills. But amidst these new environment, she feels haunted by her mother's voice and the mysterious Khamaseen.
But Vianne feels trapped .. her life has been one of movement and with a baby due in a few months , should she make a home with this community or leave- forever on the move and wary The Man in Black. and follow the wind.
Joanne Harris' prose is pitch perfect- its does feel like being transported back twenty five years- the writing is hypnotic. Vianne is a truly unique creation- her synaesthesia of seeing the moods of people through colours around them and knowing what foods and spices could enhance their lives is as enchanting as ever. The voice of Vianne is distinct and is instantly captured from the first page for those familiar with the other books.
This is a wonderful read- escapism and bewitching. The smells and tastes exude off the page. A brilliant prequel- but there are more stories to tell- especially about Vianne's mother and her choices to take Vianne on this never ending journey through her childhood.
Dive in to the world of chocolate, coffee and food and rediscover Vianne.
June 25, 2025
I've been waiting for this prequel to the Chocolat series for so long and it's absolutely fabulous!
Joanne outdone herself!
It stars with Viane Rochas scattering her mother 's ashes in the Hudson Bay, NY, 6 years before the events that first took place in the village of Lasquenet!
She decides to fly to France, ending up in Marseille, but seeing her traveling map she discovers a village called Vianne and dreams to live there in the future, even changing her name to Vianne Rocher.
She's 21, alone for the first time, free, not having to do what her mother always wanted, but missing her terribly!
She finds a small bistrot, La Bonne Mère, renting a room for a good price, to rest a couple of days, but she needs money to travel.
The owner who is also the cook, Louis Martin, kind hearted, not only gives her a job but along with his wife's recipes, reluctantly at first, teaches her to cook at her request!
The writing is so perfect that you can't help mouth watering!!!
It's also in Marseille that she meets Guy and Mahmed, learning everything possible about chocolate and helping them open their own magnificent chocolaterie!
She is so good at it that she begins creating her own delicious spiced chocolates, always seeming to know everyone's favorite.
In this book we are shown the growth of Vianne 's character that we already loved in Chocolat!
And there's so much more!
You must read it!
I'm sure you'll love it as much as I did!
❤️❤️
Joanne outdone herself!
It stars with Viane Rochas scattering her mother 's ashes in the Hudson Bay, NY, 6 years before the events that first took place in the village of Lasquenet!
She decides to fly to France, ending up in Marseille, but seeing her traveling map she discovers a village called Vianne and dreams to live there in the future, even changing her name to Vianne Rocher.
She's 21, alone for the first time, free, not having to do what her mother always wanted, but missing her terribly!
She finds a small bistrot, La Bonne Mère, renting a room for a good price, to rest a couple of days, but she needs money to travel.
The owner who is also the cook, Louis Martin, kind hearted, not only gives her a job but along with his wife's recipes, reluctantly at first, teaches her to cook at her request!
The writing is so perfect that you can't help mouth watering!!!
It's also in Marseille that she meets Guy and Mahmed, learning everything possible about chocolate and helping them open their own magnificent chocolaterie!
She is so good at it that she begins creating her own delicious spiced chocolates, always seeming to know everyone's favorite.
In this book we are shown the growth of Vianne 's character that we already loved in Chocolat!
And there's so much more!
You must read it!
I'm sure you'll love it as much as I did!
❤️❤️
September 5, 2025
I read Chocolat more than twenty years ago and much enjoyed it. I can't recall very much of the detail, but I recall clearly the feel-good factor it brought with it. So I was interested to see whether this new offering, set in the years before Chocolat, would deliver the same emotional punch.
A pregnant Vianne leaves New York after scattering her mother’s ashes. She doesn’t have a clear plan, but as it happens, she finds her way to the French port city of Marseille. Here she has a mixture of bad luck and good luck but ends up working as a waitress in a small café. She meets a mixture of friendly and somewhat hostile people and is sure her time here will be short. How her time here plays out here is to prepare here for what is to come in the adventure that follows in Chocolat, for she meets a pair of chocolatiers who are to become her friends and mentors.
There’s a good deal here about the processes of making chocolate – and indeed of cooking and recipes in general. There’s also some dallying with tarot cards and a number of hard to explain happenings. In this mystical atmosphere, there are a number of problems to be solved, mysteries to be explored, and people to mend. It’s interesting enough, but it's pretty slow going.
I listened to an audio version, narrated very competently by the author. But, in truth, I struggled to get fully engaged with the tale. In the end, it all rather passed me by.
My thanks to Dreamscape Media for supplying a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
A pregnant Vianne leaves New York after scattering her mother’s ashes. She doesn’t have a clear plan, but as it happens, she finds her way to the French port city of Marseille. Here she has a mixture of bad luck and good luck but ends up working as a waitress in a small café. She meets a mixture of friendly and somewhat hostile people and is sure her time here will be short. How her time here plays out here is to prepare here for what is to come in the adventure that follows in Chocolat, for she meets a pair of chocolatiers who are to become her friends and mentors.
There’s a good deal here about the processes of making chocolate – and indeed of cooking and recipes in general. There’s also some dallying with tarot cards and a number of hard to explain happenings. In this mystical atmosphere, there are a number of problems to be solved, mysteries to be explored, and people to mend. It’s interesting enough, but it's pretty slow going.
I listened to an audio version, narrated very competently by the author. But, in truth, I struggled to get fully engaged with the tale. In the end, it all rather passed me by.
My thanks to Dreamscape Media for supplying a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2025
If you loved CHOCOLAT and would like a bit more background information about Vianne, then this book is a must-read. It’s no surprise that I absolutely loved it. VIANNE explores the time when a young and pregnant Vianne arrives in France after the sudden death of her mother to make a life for herself and her unborn child. Taken under the wing by a widower / restaurant owner who first teaches her to cook, Vianne soon makes friends with two locals working hard to open a chocolatier. These events will shape the Vianne we get to know in CHOCOLAT.
VIANNE contains the same charm and whimsy as CHOCOLAT and I devoured it greedily, happy to learn more about a character I have adored ever since picking up Harris’ previous novels. In some way it is a coming of age story as Vianne, free of her eccentric mother, explores her own identity, trying to break free of the constraints of her unusual upbringing. I loved it and recommend it strongly to everyone who enjoyed CHOCOLAT – you won’t be disappointed!
VIANNE contains the same charm and whimsy as CHOCOLAT and I devoured it greedily, happy to learn more about a character I have adored ever since picking up Harris’ previous novels. In some way it is a coming of age story as Vianne, free of her eccentric mother, explores her own identity, trying to break free of the constraints of her unusual upbringing. I loved it and recommend it strongly to everyone who enjoyed CHOCOLAT – you won’t be disappointed!
September 14, 2025
This book was absolutely wonderful. ❤️ Thank you so much @mbc_books @pegasus_books for my gorgeous gifted copy!! 🥰Also huge thank you to @dreamscape_media for the incredible audiobook. 5 stars ⭐️
Pub date is tomorrow!! 9/2/25! 🥳
Ohh my heart.. this was like a warm hug that I didn’t know I needed. ❤️I started out with the physical book but then jumped into the audiobook so I could take this everywhere with me. I am so glad I did because it’s narrated by the author.. and it was amazing. 😍I felt like I was sitting down with a friend and chatting about her life…
This is the prequel to the absolute infamous Chocolat…which I am embarrassed to say.. I have not read or seen the movie. 🎥 What? I know… 🤦♀️ That being said.. I can assure you that if you are living under a rock 🪨 like myself.. do yourself a favor and grab a copy of the prequel. I can’t wait to read Chocolat.
This story was soothing to the soul… much like chocolate 🍫 in my opinion. While Vianne was wracked with grief.. which never goes away… much like grief does. 🥺 She took us on her journey of healing and how life marches on.
I absolutely loved how she immersed herself in learning everything about chocolate.. and creating a whole new life and identity that brought her comfort.
I sighed when I closed this book. Well also when @joannechocolat wrapped up the audiobook. What a gift this author has. Again I highly recommend getting your hands on the audiobook too as it was amazing narration. @joannechocolat was Vianne in this moment… the passion came through in her voice.
Pub date is tomorrow!! 9/2/25! 🥳
Ohh my heart.. this was like a warm hug that I didn’t know I needed. ❤️I started out with the physical book but then jumped into the audiobook so I could take this everywhere with me. I am so glad I did because it’s narrated by the author.. and it was amazing. 😍I felt like I was sitting down with a friend and chatting about her life…
This is the prequel to the absolute infamous Chocolat…which I am embarrassed to say.. I have not read or seen the movie. 🎥 What? I know… 🤦♀️ That being said.. I can assure you that if you are living under a rock 🪨 like myself.. do yourself a favor and grab a copy of the prequel. I can’t wait to read Chocolat.
This story was soothing to the soul… much like chocolate 🍫 in my opinion. While Vianne was wracked with grief.. which never goes away… much like grief does. 🥺 She took us on her journey of healing and how life marches on.
I absolutely loved how she immersed herself in learning everything about chocolate.. and creating a whole new life and identity that brought her comfort.
I sighed when I closed this book. Well also when @joannechocolat wrapped up the audiobook. What a gift this author has. Again I highly recommend getting your hands on the audiobook too as it was amazing narration. @joannechocolat was Vianne in this moment… the passion came through in her voice.
October 19, 2025
After scattering her mother’s ashes in New York, 20-year-old pregnant Sylviane Rochas is free to go wherever she pleases. For some reason, she ends up in the seaside town of Marseille, where she meets several fascinating people and turns their life upside down …
This book is a prequel to the Chocolat/Vianne Rocher book series and it’s every inch as exquisite as its predecessors. There’s a lot of praise for this novel, and in my humble opinion, all these critics tell the truth! Well, I wouldn’t say that it’s “the best book ever written,”, but I think it’s damn close.
Once more, we have here a very atmospheric, sensuous work full of witchcraft and magic. Reading it, you can almost see the Bonne Mère statue, feel the salty wind on your skin and smell the tempting chocolate scent. (I guess that this is not surprising because Joanne Harris is a synesthete.)
I also noticed some typical prequel problems, though. The most obvious of them is that the first-person narrator is extremely worldly-wise despite her young age, which is probably a consequence of the fact that although her protagonist is several years younger here than she was in the first volume of the series, the author has grown older and more mature over the years.
Luckily, this means that the whole book is peppered with thought-provoking pieces of wisdom about human nature and life.
Although I don’t think that the cover really conveys the atmosphere of the story, Vianne is a beautiful, spiritual and heartwarming feel-good read.
Highly recommended!
5 stars.
This book is a prequel to the Chocolat/Vianne Rocher book series and it’s every inch as exquisite as its predecessors. There’s a lot of praise for this novel, and in my humble opinion, all these critics tell the truth! Well, I wouldn’t say that it’s “the best book ever written,”, but I think it’s damn close.
Once more, we have here a very atmospheric, sensuous work full of witchcraft and magic. Reading it, you can almost see the Bonne Mère statue, feel the salty wind on your skin and smell the tempting chocolate scent. (I guess that this is not surprising because Joanne Harris is a synesthete.)
I also noticed some typical prequel problems, though. The most obvious of them is that the first-person narrator is extremely worldly-wise despite her young age, which is probably a consequence of the fact that although her protagonist is several years younger here than she was in the first volume of the series, the author has grown older and more mature over the years.
Luckily, this means that the whole book is peppered with thought-provoking pieces of wisdom about human nature and life.
Although I don’t think that the cover really conveys the atmosphere of the story, Vianne is a beautiful, spiritual and heartwarming feel-good read.
Highly recommended!
5 stars.
September 8, 2025
Joanne Harris has provided a beautiful prequel that I didn’t anticipate or imagine, an origin story for Vianne, the best thing about it was that I read Chocolat many years ago and could only really recall fragments of the story, and it didn’t matter at all, in fact it’s a great place to start your journey.
Vianne scatters her mothers ashes in NYC and ventures pregnant and alone to Marseille with nothing more planned than a place to lay her head, when a widower offers the hand of friendship Vianne accepts, learns to cook and discovers chocolate, she discovers friendship and community, but she’s running from the past, from secrets, will the wind carry her elsewhere?!
I was captivated. I felt like I fully understand Vianne and Chocolat in a way I hadn’t quite realised, time to revisit the series I think.
Narrated beautifully by the author.
Huge thanks to Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in return for an honest review, available from September 2.
Vianne scatters her mothers ashes in NYC and ventures pregnant and alone to Marseille with nothing more planned than a place to lay her head, when a widower offers the hand of friendship Vianne accepts, learns to cook and discovers chocolate, she discovers friendship and community, but she’s running from the past, from secrets, will the wind carry her elsewhere?!
I was captivated. I felt like I fully understand Vianne and Chocolat in a way I hadn’t quite realised, time to revisit the series I think.
Narrated beautifully by the author.
Huge thanks to Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in return for an honest review, available from September 2.
May 18, 2025
I’m sharing my thoughts about a much anticipated read. Vianne is the prequel to the much beloved Chocolat series. It tells the story of Vianne before she lands up in Lansquenet.
Reading Joanne Harris’s writing is a very sensual experience and by that I mean appealing to all the senses. Whether that’s the feeling of thistledown on a summer breeze in Marseille, the smell of pretzels and beer in New York, the sights and sounds of a fish market or the taste and aroma of fresh herbs and garlic cooking, Harris creates a vivid picture that immerses her readers in Vianne’s world. Talking of food, there are the most delectable descriptions of cooking throughout the book which will have your mouth watering and may inspire you to cook some wonderful creations in your own kitchen.
I enjoyed reading about Vianne’s back story, knowing where life leads her. This book could be experienced in different ways by different readers. Some like me, will consider Vianne an old friend and recognise references to and elements of the future novels. Others will be meeting her for the first time and I’m almost jealous knowing they can follow her story from here for the first time.
There’s a mystical element running through the book with tarot cards, rituals and Vianne’s ability to see and read people’s ‘colours’, and understand them so clearly. Even making chocolate seems to be imbued with some kind of magic.
Although I enjoyed the book I did find it a bit of a slow-burn read or perhaps I should call it a gently told story. Until the last quarter or so of the story, it’s an intense look at what makes Vianne who she is and how she came to learn about the skills of chocolate making. The last part of the book brings together the many strands which Joanne Harris has been winding subtly throughout the book in a satisfying way. There are still a few years between where we leave Vianne in this book and where we meet her in Chocolat. I wonder if the author has plans to fill in the gaps in another book. I’d be keen to read it if she does.
Reading Joanne Harris’s writing is a very sensual experience and by that I mean appealing to all the senses. Whether that’s the feeling of thistledown on a summer breeze in Marseille, the smell of pretzels and beer in New York, the sights and sounds of a fish market or the taste and aroma of fresh herbs and garlic cooking, Harris creates a vivid picture that immerses her readers in Vianne’s world. Talking of food, there are the most delectable descriptions of cooking throughout the book which will have your mouth watering and may inspire you to cook some wonderful creations in your own kitchen.
I enjoyed reading about Vianne’s back story, knowing where life leads her. This book could be experienced in different ways by different readers. Some like me, will consider Vianne an old friend and recognise references to and elements of the future novels. Others will be meeting her for the first time and I’m almost jealous knowing they can follow her story from here for the first time.
There’s a mystical element running through the book with tarot cards, rituals and Vianne’s ability to see and read people’s ‘colours’, and understand them so clearly. Even making chocolate seems to be imbued with some kind of magic.
Although I enjoyed the book I did find it a bit of a slow-burn read or perhaps I should call it a gently told story. Until the last quarter or so of the story, it’s an intense look at what makes Vianne who she is and how she came to learn about the skills of chocolate making. The last part of the book brings together the many strands which Joanne Harris has been winding subtly throughout the book in a satisfying way. There are still a few years between where we leave Vianne in this book and where we meet her in Chocolat. I wonder if the author has plans to fill in the gaps in another book. I’d be keen to read it if she does.
December 8, 2025
3 out of 4 stars (Good rather than Great) for this long-awaited prequel to the Chocolat series. Whilst it was lovely to be reacquainted with Vianne and her magical skills, I found the plot a bit stop and start and the dialogue was very repetitive in places.
The author has a great ability to develop her characters though and I loved all of the ones in this book even the grumpy ones. She also wonderfully describes Marsailles and Toulouse - both the good and the dangerous aspects- which are so fundamental to the plot.
As with other books in the series, the magic of chocolate making is also brought straight onto the page to complement Vianne's white witchery. Very clever writing.
Generally, I enjoyed this read just not quite as much as previous books in the series though maybe I was expecting too much from it.
The author has a great ability to develop her characters though and I loved all of the ones in this book even the grumpy ones. She also wonderfully describes Marsailles and Toulouse - both the good and the dangerous aspects- which are so fundamental to the plot.
As with other books in the series, the magic of chocolate making is also brought straight onto the page to complement Vianne's white witchery. Very clever writing.
Generally, I enjoyed this read just not quite as much as previous books in the series though maybe I was expecting too much from it.
October 4, 2025
Vianne is a prequel novel in the Chocolat series written and narrated by Anglo-British author, Joanne Harris. When cancer-riddled Jeanne Rochas finally dies, her twenty-one-year-old daughter, Sylviane scatters her ashes in New York and takes a cheap flight to Marseille. Pregnant, looking for a place to stay, she is taken in by Louis Martin, and begins working in his bistrot, La Bonne Mère.
Twenty years a widower, Louis faithfully follows his beloved wife Marguerite’s recipes, and these, he teaches to the young woman now calling herself Vianne. She gradually wins over most, but not all, of the regular customers and the merchants, and also makes friends with a fascinating pair preparing to open the chocolaterie they will call Xocolatl. Its location in Alle de Pieu garners the disapproval of Louis, but it’s some time before Vianne understands why.
Ever aware of her mother’s warnings about permanence, dare she take the chance and settle amongst those who seem to care for her?
In a tale that offers much of Sylviane’s backstory before she arrives in Lansquenet to open her own chocolaterie (with yet another six years to account for), Harris gives the reader tantalising descriptions of food, as well as mysteries and magic, a slow burn that might have enthralled more without the endless repetition of Jeanne’s warnings to her daughter. Enjoyable, nonetheless, and if there is a Vianne #2, it will be on many TBRs. The author’s narration is perfect.
This unbiased review is from an audio copy provided by NetGalley and Dreamscape Media
Twenty years a widower, Louis faithfully follows his beloved wife Marguerite’s recipes, and these, he teaches to the young woman now calling herself Vianne. She gradually wins over most, but not all, of the regular customers and the merchants, and also makes friends with a fascinating pair preparing to open the chocolaterie they will call Xocolatl. Its location in Alle de Pieu garners the disapproval of Louis, but it’s some time before Vianne understands why.
Ever aware of her mother’s warnings about permanence, dare she take the chance and settle amongst those who seem to care for her?
In a tale that offers much of Sylviane’s backstory before she arrives in Lansquenet to open her own chocolaterie (with yet another six years to account for), Harris gives the reader tantalising descriptions of food, as well as mysteries and magic, a slow burn that might have enthralled more without the endless repetition of Jeanne’s warnings to her daughter. Enjoyable, nonetheless, and if there is a Vianne #2, it will be on many TBRs. The author’s narration is perfect.
This unbiased review is from an audio copy provided by NetGalley and Dreamscape Media
October 9, 2025
I loved everything about this prequel to Chocolat! The characters, the prose, the atmosphere, the food descriptions and plot were all wonderful. Perhaps best of all was Joanne Harris' narration on the audiobook. I was sad for the book to end and wonder if there might be another book that picks up where this one ends. There is a several year gap between Vianne and Chocolat. I have my fingers crossed. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2025
I love the other Vianne/Anouk books, but this fell flat. I felt as a f she'd written it to satisfy publishers rather than to tell the story
June 17, 2025
(2.5) Food and magic have always been Joanne Harris’ trademarks. I was really looking forward to this prequel to “Chocolat” but for me there was far too much of the former and as a result the story moved forward very slowly. I began skipping the descriptions of the recipes but still the pace dragged. Vianne’s mother’s voice in her ear from beyond the grave just made me feel what a terrible mum she had been. All in all it was just dull, what a shame! I am just glad I did not read this first or I would never have gone on to read the delightful ‘Chocolat’.
November 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I had only read the first of the series so far, Chocolat. It was great getting the main character’s back story. It’s really important that you have some type of chocolate around while reading the end of this, unless you’re immune to the dark mother’s wiles lol.
Audio version was read by the author, which at first made me ☹️. Until I realized she is also good at narrating which most authors aren’t, in my experience. She did a fantastic job and now I’d like to go on and read the entire series. I’m much more interested in the protagonist’s story than I was when finishing the first book. Although saying that, I enjoy all of this author’s work.
Audio version was read by the author, which at first made me ☹️. Until I realized she is also good at narrating which most authors aren’t, in my experience. She did a fantastic job and now I’d like to go on and read the entire series. I’m much more interested in the protagonist’s story than I was when finishing the first book. Although saying that, I enjoy all of this author’s work.
November 30, 2025
I was expecting great things having greatly enjoyed the four novels in the ‘Chocolat’ series.
This prequel sees Vianne arrive in Marseille after her mother’s death, seeking to define herself and trying to figure out whether to follow the itinerant life her mother had given her or put down roots.
It wasn’t an immediate ‘hit’ for me. After the first quarter I was fairly bored, but I did eventually get completely drawn in.
Joanne Harris’ trade mark style of seeing the world through smell and making the mouth water with her culinary descriptions are very much in evidence, and there are the familiar brushes with magic and did something actually happen or was it a trick of the imagination?
Not her strongest work but still good.
This prequel sees Vianne arrive in Marseille after her mother’s death, seeking to define herself and trying to figure out whether to follow the itinerant life her mother had given her or put down roots.
It wasn’t an immediate ‘hit’ for me. After the first quarter I was fairly bored, but I did eventually get completely drawn in.
Joanne Harris’ trade mark style of seeing the world through smell and making the mouth water with her culinary descriptions are very much in evidence, and there are the familiar brushes with magic and did something actually happen or was it a trick of the imagination?
Not her strongest work but still good.
September 25, 2025
Vianne by Joanne Harris is a new wonderfully created prequel to the famous novel and movie 🎬 🎞 🎥 Chocolat 🍫.
I really loved this new novel, Vianne and went on the best ever foodie and chocolate trail 👣 ever all over France; savouring beautiful gourmet cuisine and chocolate 🍫 delights; from bouillabaisse to ratatouille to chestnut 🌰 pralines, chocolate cake and truffles; to the scent of vanilla bean and cardamon to chilli 🌶 hot chocolate ~ this book 📖 will entice and delight your senses!
It's set at the time of All Hallows Eve ... and Christmas.
There's even some Tarot cards added to the story but can you tell their meaning.
Perfect for all Chocolat fans.
I loved Vianne and there may even be a sequel to Chocolat coming!
I sure hope so.
Thank you to Joanne Harris for a new wonderful story on Chocolate 🍫 ~ I look forward to the next one.
Go where the North Wind takes you!
I really loved this new novel, Vianne and went on the best ever foodie and chocolate trail 👣 ever all over France; savouring beautiful gourmet cuisine and chocolate 🍫 delights; from bouillabaisse to ratatouille to chestnut 🌰 pralines, chocolate cake and truffles; to the scent of vanilla bean and cardamon to chilli 🌶 hot chocolate ~ this book 📖 will entice and delight your senses!
It's set at the time of All Hallows Eve ... and Christmas.
There's even some Tarot cards added to the story but can you tell their meaning.
Perfect for all Chocolat fans.
I loved Vianne and there may even be a sequel to Chocolat coming!
I sure hope so.
Thank you to Joanne Harris for a new wonderful story on Chocolate 🍫 ~ I look forward to the next one.
Go where the North Wind takes you!
June 13, 2025
DNF around 70%. Kinda wish I hadn’t read this.
Vianne, not only did you plagiarise your recipes (including ‘your’ signature chocolate spice you add to everything everywhere!) but you’re a professional ghoster. Don’t know how you had the time to make friends since you didn’t show them any personality and instead floated about repeatedly thinking how you don’t want to stay anywhere because you’re a witch that travels with the wind who doesn’t put down roots, whilst putting down roots.
Wish I’d kept my memories of early ‘00s Chocolat but even Johnny Depp’s ruined now.
Vianne, not only did you plagiarise your recipes (including ‘your’ signature chocolate spice you add to everything everywhere!) but you’re a professional ghoster. Don’t know how you had the time to make friends since you didn’t show them any personality and instead floated about repeatedly thinking how you don’t want to stay anywhere because you’re a witch that travels with the wind who doesn’t put down roots, whilst putting down roots.
Wish I’d kept my memories of early ‘00s Chocolat but even Johnny Depp’s ruined now.
October 13, 2025
Fun visiting with this character again. Loved the first book and the movie, and this is a nice 'intro' to it.
September 2, 2025
Vianne is a great one to listen to on audiobook since the author reads it. The Chocolat series is a favorite of mine so it was fun to listen to the prequel of Vianne’s younger years. The atmospheric writing is beautiful as always with JoAnne Harris. Don’t read this when hungry! The story is interesting and we get to find out where Vianne comes from, how she learns to make chocolate and more about her gentle kind of magic. I’d highly recommend this one on audio as the French pronunciations are helpful.
April 18, 2025
I'm really grateful to the publishers for sending me a proof copy of this ahead of publication. This was an absolute joy to read, and the return to Vianne's story, setting the scene for Chocolat and a glimpse at the skills she gains and the people she meets along the way.
It's an effortless read, and I found myself saying that classic phrase "just one more chapter" on more than one occasion.
The characters are written with depth and charm, and even when they are dislikeable, you can tell there is more to their story.
I loved Vianne's backstory, and her battle with her mothers past and her determination to provide a future for her daughter that wouldn't reflect her own.
I was hungry for chocolate the whole time I was reading!
I will definitely be recommending this when it's published, it's a brilliant book from a brilliant author.
It's an effortless read, and I found myself saying that classic phrase "just one more chapter" on more than one occasion.
The characters are written with depth and charm, and even when they are dislikeable, you can tell there is more to their story.
I loved Vianne's backstory, and her battle with her mothers past and her determination to provide a future for her daughter that wouldn't reflect her own.
I was hungry for chocolate the whole time I was reading!
I will definitely be recommending this when it's published, it's a brilliant book from a brilliant author.
August 29, 2025
So although I enjoyed the previous chocolat book, this one just didn’t do it for me.
Vianne is traveling around France after spreading her mother’s ashes in NYC on New Year’s Eve, 1993.
We follow her as she tries to make her way, get somewhat settled, and maybe even try to make/keep some friends along the way….
But her mother’s voice is in her head, always… guiding her to do things the way s
SHE always did… but, was that the right way?
She is also pregnant, and alone… and has some type of magical abilities. 😮🤯
And so begin her toyings with chocolate in this prequel to her series.
Although I enjoyed it, I did not love it. I liked the last one better. 😫
In any case, if you think this might be a good fit for you, please look 👀 for it on shelves on Tuesday, 9/2/25!
*** IT HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! ***
#Vianne by @JoanneHarris and narrated nicely by the author!
3 🌟🌟🌟 for me!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Vianne is traveling around France after spreading her mother’s ashes in NYC on New Year’s Eve, 1993.
We follow her as she tries to make her way, get somewhat settled, and maybe even try to make/keep some friends along the way….
But her mother’s voice is in her head, always… guiding her to do things the way s
SHE always did… but, was that the right way?
She is also pregnant, and alone… and has some type of magical abilities. 😮🤯
And so begin her toyings with chocolate in this prequel to her series.
Although I enjoyed it, I did not love it. I liked the last one better. 😫
In any case, if you think this might be a good fit for you, please look 👀 for it on shelves on Tuesday, 9/2/25!
*** IT HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!! ***
#Vianne by @JoanneHarris and narrated nicely by the author!
3 🌟🌟🌟 for me!!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
November 11, 2025
Vianne tells the backstory of Vianne Rocher, the character of Chocolat and actually shows how she became involved incorporating chocolate into recipes. A novel of friendship, destiny, and the power of food. Harris still brings her sensory style of writing to the tale with her detailed descriptions of smells and properties of food and I loved the information concerning authentic artisanal chocolate from bean to final product. The book was a bit tricky for me because while I enjoyed the story I just didn't connect with it like I thought I would. Definitely a read though if you are a Joanne Harris follower.
"We are like trees, which, branching out, nourish each other in times of need."
"We are like trees, which, branching out, nourish each other in times of need."
October 23, 2025
Одна женщина приготовила буйабес и тут же упала в обморок. Это могла бы быть история про меня, но Виан просто беременна. Много еды, шоколада, конечно же, mother issues и бездомности. Очень теплая и летняя книга, которую хорошо читать в отпуске, но я ее читала в промозглом осеннем Лондоне в +10 и не до конца прочувствовала романтику. Тем не менее, книга все равно хороша, no regrets.
October 23, 2025
My ultimate pet peeve is paying for a book ($38 to be exact) for it to have errors in it. Typo on page 151 and 355. How was proof reading forgotten? Was there not an editor?
Besides that the book was really underwhelming, it was slow, it was boring, the magic was a bit silly and far fetched (and not explained at all it just existed). Skip for sure
Besides that the book was really underwhelming, it was slow, it was boring, the magic was a bit silly and far fetched (and not explained at all it just existed). Skip for sure
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