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Sophie Valroux #1
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux
A disgraced chef rediscovers her passion for food and her roots in this stunning novel rich in culture and full of delectable recipes.
French-born American chef Sophie Valroux had one dream: to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant. From spending summers with her grandmother, who taught her the power of cooking and food, to attending the Culinary Institute of America, Sophie finds herself on the cusp of getting everything she's dreamed of.
Until her career goes up in flames.
Sabotaged by a fellow chef, Sophie is fired, leaving her reputation ruined and confidence shaken. To add fuel to the fire, Sophie learns that her grandmother has suffered a stroke and takes the red-eye to France. There, Sophie discovers the simple home she remembers from her childhood is now a luxurious château, complete with two restaurants and a vineyard. As Sophie tries to reestablish herself in the kitchen, she comes to understand the lengths people will go to for success and love, and how dreams can change.
French-born American chef Sophie Valroux had one dream: to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant. From spending summers with her grandmother, who taught her the power of cooking and food, to attending the Culinary Institute of America, Sophie finds herself on the cusp of getting everything she's dreamed of.
Until her career goes up in flames.
Sabotaged by a fellow chef, Sophie is fired, leaving her reputation ruined and confidence shaken. To add fuel to the fire, Sophie learns that her grandmother has suffered a stroke and takes the red-eye to France. There, Sophie discovers the simple home she remembers from her childhood is now a luxurious château, complete with two restaurants and a vineyard. As Sophie tries to reestablish herself in the kitchen, she comes to understand the lengths people will go to for success and love, and how dreams can change.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2020
341 people are currently reading
4459 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Verant
10 books454 followersSamantha Vérant is a travel addict, a self-professed oenophile, and a determined, if occasionally unconventional, at-home French chef. Over the years, she’s visited many different countries, lived in many places, and worked many jobs— always on the search for the one thing that truly excited her. Then, one day, she found everything she’s been looking for: a passion for the written word and true love. Writing not only enabled her to open her heart, it led her to southwestern France, where she’s now married to a sexy French rocket scientist she met over twenty years ago, a stepmom to two incredible kids, and the adoptive mother to one ridiculously adorable Charteux cat. When she’s not trekking from Provence to the Pyrénées, tasting wine in American-sized glasses, or embracing her inner Julia Child while deliberating what constitutes the perfect boeuf bourguignon, Samantha is making her best effort to relearn those dreaded conjugations.
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October 27, 2025
Sophie has carried a dream with her ever since she was first learning to cook with her French Grandma - to become a Michelin-starred chef.
She has worked tirelessly for this dream - first by learning to cook during her summers in France with her grandmother, then attending the Culinary Institute of America and finally working in an amazing starred restaurant in New York.
Her dream is so, incredibly close.
But then, the unthinkable happens.
With just a bad word from an ex-boyfriend and one of his cronies, her carefully crafted culinary career implodes.
And the bad news doesn't stop there. Sophie’s grandmother is experiencing a serious health setback and it looks like it won't be getting better.
Career in shambles, Sophie boards a plane to France and once there, she finds that her fond, summer memories do not match with the current real-life.
But if there's one thing she's learned in the kitchen, it's grit.
So she dons her apron, rolls up her sleeves, and gets to work.
This one took me by complete surprise - and I absolutely LOVED it - 5 stars all the way.
Sophie's character was fabulous - the way she truly felt each setback and how she picked herself up was endearing and helped me connect so well to the book.
The plot felt fresh and exciting. There were times that i was CERTAIN that I knew what was going to happen next - but then I would be completely blindsided by the direction the book took (and I loved it when that happened).
I also loved the love for food in this book. Sometimes you can tell that the author is mentioning food out of obligation but that was not the case.
It was so fun for me (admittingly not a "fancy" cook) to learn all about Sophie's culinary expertise and how she created a menu.
All of the meals sounded SO good (even though I could barely tell what the ingredients were!). I also loved that there is a series of recipes in the back that I can try out on my own.
All in all, I couldn't be happier with this book and I cannot WAIT to see what the author writes next!
A huge thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
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September 10, 2020
Sophie is an American chef who was born in France. Her only dream is to one of the very few female chefs in charge of a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Sophie learned to cook from her French grandmother and attended the Culinary Institute of America. She’s so close to everything she’s ever wanted, and then her career implodes when she is sabotaged by another chef.
Sophie’s grandmother is ailing and needs her, so she flies to France. Times have changed since she was last in France, but Sophie is once again finding her way in the kitchen.
This book reminded me a little of Under the Tuscan Sun, probably in how the author takes a trip for one purpose but also to start over. Sophie needs a reset button, and in many ways, she finds that in France.
I loved everything about this novel. The cover, Sophie’s character, her grandmother, the storytelling, the French setting, the FOOD, the charm. It really has it all, and throughout, I was rooting for Sophie to find her place again.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader.
Sophie learned to cook from her French grandmother and attended the Culinary Institute of America. She’s so close to everything she’s ever wanted, and then her career implodes when she is sabotaged by another chef.
Sophie’s grandmother is ailing and needs her, so she flies to France. Times have changed since she was last in France, but Sophie is once again finding her way in the kitchen.
This book reminded me a little of Under the Tuscan Sun, probably in how the author takes a trip for one purpose but also to start over. Sophie needs a reset button, and in many ways, she finds that in France.
I loved everything about this novel. The cover, Sophie’s character, her grandmother, the storytelling, the French setting, the FOOD, the charm. It really has it all, and throughout, I was rooting for Sophie to find her place again.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader.
July 6, 2020
Delightful, passionate, and fierce.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think women have a lot to overcome in certain industries. That’s an unfortunate statement here in 2020 but not much has changed over the years.
This book highlights some amazing facts. Women still have to fight and struggle for every bit they get. But it’s the overall passion for your work that seems to make it worthwhile.
The story offers a marvelous journey loaded with so many different aspects of life. Working in a traditional restaurant where the pressures are intense to be superior in all you do. Working with others where competition really can take a toll on everyone.
Falling from your highest point to the depths of despair and somehow learning to climb out of it step-by-step because of the resilience we have. Reconnecting with relatives who are willing to give you the world and so much more. Finding strength in friends.
This book has so many layers to it. Highs and lows, fear and strength, even hesitant romance through a second chance.
The author brings us a book loaded with passion through life and living, family and relationships. And through it all is amazing food and wines and even some recipes for us to try. I found myself addicted to the story in a very surprising manner.
It’s a wonderful journey that is loaded with the richness of life, the delicacies of food and flavor, and the sweet treat of a wonderful love story. Delightful, passionate, and fierce.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-secret-f...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think women have a lot to overcome in certain industries. That’s an unfortunate statement here in 2020 but not much has changed over the years.
This book highlights some amazing facts. Women still have to fight and struggle for every bit they get. But it’s the overall passion for your work that seems to make it worthwhile.
The story offers a marvelous journey loaded with so many different aspects of life. Working in a traditional restaurant where the pressures are intense to be superior in all you do. Working with others where competition really can take a toll on everyone.
Falling from your highest point to the depths of despair and somehow learning to climb out of it step-by-step because of the resilience we have. Reconnecting with relatives who are willing to give you the world and so much more. Finding strength in friends.
This book has so many layers to it. Highs and lows, fear and strength, even hesitant romance through a second chance.
The author brings us a book loaded with passion through life and living, family and relationships. And through it all is amazing food and wines and even some recipes for us to try. I found myself addicted to the story in a very surprising manner.
It’s a wonderful journey that is loaded with the richness of life, the delicacies of food and flavor, and the sweet treat of a wonderful love story. Delightful, passionate, and fierce.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-secret-f...
August 29, 2020
Five shining stars! This book is being published on September 8th!
What a delightful book, full of passion, joy, beauty, and love! When I first saw this book, the cover caught my eye, but as soon as the description mentioned French cuisine and female chef, I was caught.
There are many industries where it is still very challenging to be a woman, including the culinary world. It's sad that in 2020, women (and people of color) have to work 10x's as hard for every bit of respect they get, and misogyny is still alive and well in many areas. But total love and passion for the art are what allows some of the few to survive what is often a harsh environment. This book follows Sophie's journey through the highs and lows (rock bottom) of being a female chef and rediscovering her true love of cooking, not for the external "Michelin Stars", but because of how she can show love to people through her cooking. I also loved that her grand-mère's Chateaux was run mostly by women! The contrast between her grand-mère's restaurants and the NYC restaurants was very clear and indicated that there is definitely more than one way to provide excellent food and service than the world of the Michelin stars.
This book made me laugh, cry, salivate, and cheer. I could absolutely smell and picture the scenery and the scents. It was filled with sensory images that transported me to France. This book is now on my list of favorites and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys food and romance and strong female characters.
FTC Disclosure: Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
What a delightful book, full of passion, joy, beauty, and love! When I first saw this book, the cover caught my eye, but as soon as the description mentioned French cuisine and female chef, I was caught.
There are many industries where it is still very challenging to be a woman, including the culinary world. It's sad that in 2020, women (and people of color) have to work 10x's as hard for every bit of respect they get, and misogyny is still alive and well in many areas. But total love and passion for the art are what allows some of the few to survive what is often a harsh environment. This book follows Sophie's journey through the highs and lows (rock bottom) of being a female chef and rediscovering her true love of cooking, not for the external "Michelin Stars", but because of how she can show love to people through her cooking. I also loved that her grand-mère's Chateaux was run mostly by women! The contrast between her grand-mère's restaurants and the NYC restaurants was very clear and indicated that there is definitely more than one way to provide excellent food and service than the world of the Michelin stars.
This book made me laugh, cry, salivate, and cheer. I could absolutely smell and picture the scenery and the scents. It was filled with sensory images that transported me to France. This book is now on my list of favorites and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys food and romance and strong female characters.
FTC Disclosure: Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 2, 2020
I love books set in France, so when I had a chance to read an early copy of The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux, I jumped at it! I am happy to say I enjoyed this book!
Sophie Valroux is a passionate CIA-trained chef who dreams of one day becoming a head chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant. After her career is sabotaged by another chef, she loses her job, her confidence, and her cooking mojo. Sophie also learns that her French grandmother, from whom she learned to cook, suffered a stroke. With nothing left for Sophie in NYC, she travels to France to be with her grandmother. In her ancestral French chateau, with the help of its inhabitants, Sophie has a chance to rediscover her roots and her family history, rebuild her life, and reignite her passion for cooking.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love family dramas, second chances, and books about food. A word of warning though: The French Recipes of Sophie Valroux will make your mouth water, so don't read it when you are hungry!
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Sophie Valroux is a passionate CIA-trained chef who dreams of one day becoming a head chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant. After her career is sabotaged by another chef, she loses her job, her confidence, and her cooking mojo. Sophie also learns that her French grandmother, from whom she learned to cook, suffered a stroke. With nothing left for Sophie in NYC, she travels to France to be with her grandmother. In her ancestral French chateau, with the help of its inhabitants, Sophie has a chance to rediscover her roots and her family history, rebuild her life, and reignite her passion for cooking.
I highly recommend this book to readers who love family dramas, second chances, and books about food. A word of warning though: The French Recipes of Sophie Valroux will make your mouth water, so don't read it when you are hungry!
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
August 13, 2020
"Rule number one: no crying in the kitchen. I never shed one tear. I did what I had to do and I got it done-no matter the occupational hazards."
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux was such a joy to read. It's been two years since I read Seven Letters From Paris by Samantha Verant, and it became one of my favorite memoirs, so I was super excited to see this new title by her pop up on Netgalley. She did not disappoint.
Samantha Verant shows our main character Sophie, no mercy at the beginning of this book. Really up until about the halfway mark, Sophie gets knocked down and kind of stays there. She is a Chef at a NYC restaurant and is set up and sabotaged by this douchebag named Eric whom she had a thing with once upon a time. He's the kind of jerk who sets everything up to where you feel like you absolutely need him and have to depend him..one of those scumbags.
"Little girls plot revenge. Smart women sit back and let karma do its job."
So in the blink of an eye, Sophie is fired from her job and her reputation is shot. Remind yourself as you're reading the difficult moments Sophie has that it's not everyday that one literally gets fired and the lies other people tell are put in magazines and newspapers and the internet so quickly with such a wide reach that there is no way in hell they would ever find a job in that industry again. I love that Samantha Verant explores what it is like to be a female chef. It is an industry that looks cool on Food Network, but until reading something like this-as a viewer and eater, you don't realize some of the crap that happens behind the scenes.
"Eric wanted to break me because he wanted to win, wanted to make sure I didn't have a voice. well, he'd succeeded. He'd won. And I was broken."
After everything pops up and Sophie goes through weeks of depression and self-pity, she learns her Grandmother back in France is sick. Her Grandmother is the only family she has left so she hops on a plane and heads straight over and this is where the story begins to shift.
Sophie's Grandmother lets her know that once she passes, the Chateau goes to Sophie and with her Grandmother being sick, Sophie has to step it up and take over the kitchen.
This is one of those stories that you truly see the transition from being super depressed thinking what now..to that rebuilding of confidence and commitment to moving on. I loved that as she got her shit together and things began falling into place, telling Her story became important to Sophie. She could easily hop on a plane back to NYC and begin working again but she'd be in the back of some other chef's kitchen, following his recipes, telling the stories he wanted told.
"I'd been stuck adhering to rules and regulations and rigid recipes, and my creativity got lost in the process. I'd been telling somebody else's story when all I'd ever wanted was to tell my own. But what if I didn't like my story?"
Sophie's story is definitely one of resilience, and bouncing back. Reconnecting and mending relationships. Forgiveness, hard work and on more than one occasion-being the bigger person. Weighing the pros and cons of what you have now and what you've left behind. Finding family.
"We have to face what's coming with Strength."
I loved it. There is a childhood sweethearts romance plot line in the story as well. Sophie's mother did commit suicide, so TW for that. I thought it was wonderful. Can't wait for more from Samantha Verant.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux was such a joy to read. It's been two years since I read Seven Letters From Paris by Samantha Verant, and it became one of my favorite memoirs, so I was super excited to see this new title by her pop up on Netgalley. She did not disappoint.
Samantha Verant shows our main character Sophie, no mercy at the beginning of this book. Really up until about the halfway mark, Sophie gets knocked down and kind of stays there. She is a Chef at a NYC restaurant and is set up and sabotaged by this douchebag named Eric whom she had a thing with once upon a time. He's the kind of jerk who sets everything up to where you feel like you absolutely need him and have to depend him..one of those scumbags.
"Little girls plot revenge. Smart women sit back and let karma do its job."
So in the blink of an eye, Sophie is fired from her job and her reputation is shot. Remind yourself as you're reading the difficult moments Sophie has that it's not everyday that one literally gets fired and the lies other people tell are put in magazines and newspapers and the internet so quickly with such a wide reach that there is no way in hell they would ever find a job in that industry again. I love that Samantha Verant explores what it is like to be a female chef. It is an industry that looks cool on Food Network, but until reading something like this-as a viewer and eater, you don't realize some of the crap that happens behind the scenes.
"Eric wanted to break me because he wanted to win, wanted to make sure I didn't have a voice. well, he'd succeeded. He'd won. And I was broken."
After everything pops up and Sophie goes through weeks of depression and self-pity, she learns her Grandmother back in France is sick. Her Grandmother is the only family she has left so she hops on a plane and heads straight over and this is where the story begins to shift.
Sophie's Grandmother lets her know that once she passes, the Chateau goes to Sophie and with her Grandmother being sick, Sophie has to step it up and take over the kitchen.
This is one of those stories that you truly see the transition from being super depressed thinking what now..to that rebuilding of confidence and commitment to moving on. I loved that as she got her shit together and things began falling into place, telling Her story became important to Sophie. She could easily hop on a plane back to NYC and begin working again but she'd be in the back of some other chef's kitchen, following his recipes, telling the stories he wanted told.
"I'd been stuck adhering to rules and regulations and rigid recipes, and my creativity got lost in the process. I'd been telling somebody else's story when all I'd ever wanted was to tell my own. But what if I didn't like my story?"
Sophie's story is definitely one of resilience, and bouncing back. Reconnecting and mending relationships. Forgiveness, hard work and on more than one occasion-being the bigger person. Weighing the pros and cons of what you have now and what you've left behind. Finding family.
"We have to face what's coming with Strength."
I loved it. There is a childhood sweethearts romance plot line in the story as well. Sophie's mother did commit suicide, so TW for that. I thought it was wonderful. Can't wait for more from Samantha Verant.
September 8, 2020
Many of us put up a front when we are afraid, after all what would others think if they knew how we really felt? We are so afraid of being judged.
As the book opens we see Sophie, a French-born American chef living in the states chasing a life-long dream. This dream is to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant.
When that gets sabotaged she feels as if her life-long dream has been devastatingly snatched away from her.
Her true passion is cooking, it has been since she was seven and learned from the best at her grandmother's knee.
Culinary traditions are passed down from her family and as she cooks it invokes nostalgia within her.
Needing a clean break when her dreams slip away she returns to the land of her birth, France where her grandmother who is in declining health resides.
Knowing she hasn't had the time for her grandmother recently she feels so guilty and hopes her grandmother receives her well upon her arrival.
Grandmother owns an important French chateau with a winery and oh so delicious foods, which the recipes were created by the best,grandmother.
So many questions were answered about Sophie's mother and Sophie's life that she hadn't known about. Sophie's mother was unable to tell her these things because she had a mental illness and was unable to care for herself. As Sophie discovers more about herself,her mother and grandmother we see her priorities changing and what was once so important isn't so much now.
This really is a beautiful story and I highly recommend it.
Published September 8th 2020 by Berkley.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
As the book opens we see Sophie, a French-born American chef living in the states chasing a life-long dream. This dream is to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant.
When that gets sabotaged she feels as if her life-long dream has been devastatingly snatched away from her.
Her true passion is cooking, it has been since she was seven and learned from the best at her grandmother's knee.
Culinary traditions are passed down from her family and as she cooks it invokes nostalgia within her.
Needing a clean break when her dreams slip away she returns to the land of her birth, France where her grandmother who is in declining health resides.
Knowing she hasn't had the time for her grandmother recently she feels so guilty and hopes her grandmother receives her well upon her arrival.
Grandmother owns an important French chateau with a winery and oh so delicious foods, which the recipes were created by the best,grandmother.
So many questions were answered about Sophie's mother and Sophie's life that she hadn't known about. Sophie's mother was unable to tell her these things because she had a mental illness and was unable to care for herself. As Sophie discovers more about herself,her mother and grandmother we see her priorities changing and what was once so important isn't so much now.
This really is a beautiful story and I highly recommend it.
Published September 8th 2020 by Berkley.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 23, 2020
I not only read this book (a gazillion times)...I wrote it. Thank you, dear reader, for choosing it. I'm really excited to share my debut women's (with a bit of contemporary romance) fiction with the world. Many bisous.
November 19, 2020
This story gets two and a half stars. I can't quite get to three to say I liked it, because the attitude transitions of these characters is lightning quick. The reader spends more than a hundred and fifty pages with Sophie utterly wrecked and a bit angsty, Jane uptight and snobbish, and Remi grumpy and aloof. Then, almost at the drop of a hat, Sophie's found her feet, Remi's friendly and affectionate, and Jane is far less bitchy. Nobody turns around that fast. But the premise is sound, and if it had been developed along a slightly different arc it would've been an Aztec hot chocolate - sweet with just the right amount of spice.
November 9, 2020
A Very Whiny Heroine. For Pete's sake, get over yourself.
May 13, 2020
(free review copy) An enjoyable foodie family story / romance that definitely was a comforting read.
One picky thing though - it's always strange to me in books like this though where there are characters who are said to not be speaking in English and then in the English dialogue, which we would assume is a translation, there are words in their language - in this case French. I think that's just to add "flavor" but it's annoying to me because it jars me out of the reading experience.
One picky thing though - it's always strange to me in books like this though where there are characters who are said to not be speaking in English and then in the English dialogue, which we would assume is a translation, there are words in their language - in this case French. I think that's just to add "flavor" but it's annoying to me because it jars me out of the reading experience.
May 23, 2020
This novel in a word: magical.
Who wouldn’t want to be transported to a chateau in the south of France, surrounded by dragonflies, amazing French food, and lavender?
Sophie, is a New York chef who wants to become the head of a Michelin starred restaurant. She’s worked hard in what is a testosterone-driven world to gain her reputation and position, and she’s on the right track. But at the start of the book, when her ex sabotages her, she loses everything: her job, her reputation and her motivation and confidence to keep cooking. With her career and life’s ambition in tatters she escapes to her grandmother’s place in Southwest France, surprised to realize that it is a much grander chateau than she remembers as a child, with an entire hospitality arm.
Reading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain a few years ago gave me an appreciation for how cut-throat and non female -friendly the world of professional chefs is. Sophie has tried to win in that world, and she’s had to build up her defenses and even a little cynicism as a result, but she’s not yet hardened.
When she returns to her ancestral homeland of France, although at first resistant, the question is will she be able to re-open herself to the joy and magic of cooking? And perhaps even romance?
This book has a gorgeous whimsical element to it, taking you from New York to Southwest France and the sunflower fields, gorgeous cuisine, local markets and style of French living. There are even recipes included – because you’ll be pausing at various points to drool!
If you’re looking for a read that takes you on a magical journey, not just to France but for Sophie, a journey of self-acceptance, with a dash of romance - I couldn’t recommend this book more.
Who wouldn’t want to be transported to a chateau in the south of France, surrounded by dragonflies, amazing French food, and lavender?
Sophie, is a New York chef who wants to become the head of a Michelin starred restaurant. She’s worked hard in what is a testosterone-driven world to gain her reputation and position, and she’s on the right track. But at the start of the book, when her ex sabotages her, she loses everything: her job, her reputation and her motivation and confidence to keep cooking. With her career and life’s ambition in tatters she escapes to her grandmother’s place in Southwest France, surprised to realize that it is a much grander chateau than she remembers as a child, with an entire hospitality arm.
Reading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain a few years ago gave me an appreciation for how cut-throat and non female -friendly the world of professional chefs is. Sophie has tried to win in that world, and she’s had to build up her defenses and even a little cynicism as a result, but she’s not yet hardened.
When she returns to her ancestral homeland of France, although at first resistant, the question is will she be able to re-open herself to the joy and magic of cooking? And perhaps even romance?
This book has a gorgeous whimsical element to it, taking you from New York to Southwest France and the sunflower fields, gorgeous cuisine, local markets and style of French living. There are even recipes included – because you’ll be pausing at various points to drool!
If you’re looking for a read that takes you on a magical journey, not just to France but for Sophie, a journey of self-acceptance, with a dash of romance - I couldn’t recommend this book more.
April 19, 2020
A lush, transportive story that will leave readers hungry to take bigger bites out of life.
As a huge fan of food and the art of cooking, as well as an American ex-pat living abroad, I both savored and related to Sophie's journey to rediscover herself after escaping the toxic work culture of the NYC culinary scene. The author does an excellent job of weaving together a compelling tale of love (family, friends, and romance) along with an empowering picture of self-discovery set against a beautiful and vibrant backdrop of a French Chateau.
Perfect for fans of Under the Tuscan Sun and the Bon Appetit test kitchen.
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book from the author and her publisher, Berkley, and it was such a treat to read.
As a huge fan of food and the art of cooking, as well as an American ex-pat living abroad, I both savored and related to Sophie's journey to rediscover herself after escaping the toxic work culture of the NYC culinary scene. The author does an excellent job of weaving together a compelling tale of love (family, friends, and romance) along with an empowering picture of self-discovery set against a beautiful and vibrant backdrop of a French Chateau.
Perfect for fans of Under the Tuscan Sun and the Bon Appetit test kitchen.
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book from the author and her publisher, Berkley, and it was such a treat to read.
September 2, 2020
I loved this book! From the beautiful French scenery (and brief view into New York), the armchair travel here was on-point. The yummy French recipes and French language were huge bonuses. Check out this heart-warming book about pursing dreams!
September 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It's pacy, the protag is someone you could be friends with, being messy, talented, vulnerable, driven, and likeable, and it offered me a glimpse into a world I knew little of. The author obviously has good writing chops. The only downside is reading the book made me super hungry all the time and miss France and my family/friends.
And for Francophiles: a chance to hone your French!
*I received an ARC but this is my honest, hungry opinion.
And for Francophiles: a chance to hone your French!
*I received an ARC but this is my honest, hungry opinion.
August 24, 2023
Lighthearted, romantic, a bit predictable & simplistic in its approach at times, but more than made up for itself in setting. Set in a lovely, family-owned, French countryside chateau that is positively simmering with sauces... and family secrets.
Sophie finds herself disgraced & wrongfully terminated from her current kitchen in NYC and so returns to the only home she's ever known, and that home isn't a place, but a person - her grandmother. And she just happens to own a chateau in need of a new chef as they prepare for opening. In this kitchen, in the walls of the chateau, Sophie finds answers, love, connection, and that sometimes your dreams can take you to a place you didn't expect.
Sophie finds herself disgraced & wrongfully terminated from her current kitchen in NYC and so returns to the only home she's ever known, and that home isn't a place, but a person - her grandmother. And she just happens to own a chateau in need of a new chef as they prepare for opening. In this kitchen, in the walls of the chateau, Sophie finds answers, love, connection, and that sometimes your dreams can take you to a place you didn't expect.
April 7, 2020
I loved this story so much. Whenever I read it, my mouth watered from the description of the food. It was so life like. This novel did terrible things for my diet though. Whenever I read it, I would go straight to the fridge and devoured everything. I’ll definitely need to try some of the recipes from this book.
I enjoyed Sophie’s character. All her reactions and feelings are realistic. I really felt for her especially with her ex Eric. I wanted to throttle him on behalf of her.
She’s determined and creative. The side romance with Remi was so sweet.
The setting in France was beautiful. I felt like I was actually there!
Hands down one of the best women’s fiction books I’ve ever read.
I enjoyed Sophie’s character. All her reactions and feelings are realistic. I really felt for her especially with her ex Eric. I wanted to throttle him on behalf of her.
She’s determined and creative. The side romance with Remi was so sweet.
The setting in France was beautiful. I felt like I was actually there!
Hands down one of the best women’s fiction books I’ve ever read.
April 21, 2020
Sophie has a dream. She wants to be a Michelin-Star Chef, a desire for which she has sacrificed much to obtain this hard-won honor – especially for a woman. Sophie deserves this honor. And yet, one must always be careful what one wishes for.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux is a five-star delight, filled with characters intent on taking Sophie down and others who wish to give her everything she deserves.
The food made me wish I'd been transported to France so I could sit at the table of Sophie's ancestral home. The food made me wish I could live there forever. And speaking of food: there are recipes in this book!
With just the right amount of secrets and tension and mystery, this book is unputdownable.
Thank you to the publisher for an early look at this book.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux is a five-star delight, filled with characters intent on taking Sophie down and others who wish to give her everything she deserves.
The food made me wish I'd been transported to France so I could sit at the table of Sophie's ancestral home. The food made me wish I could live there forever. And speaking of food: there are recipes in this book!
With just the right amount of secrets and tension and mystery, this book is unputdownable.
Thank you to the publisher for an early look at this book.
September 8, 2020
Sophie's journey is a delight from rocky start to satisfying end! I was charmed by her witty and spunky voice from the first page and knew this was a protagonist I could get behind and cheer for. I felt for her as we learn more about her upbringing and complicated family relationships, which made her a very relatable and sympathetic character, as well as throughout her ups and downs in achieving her culinary dreams. It was wonderful to get insight into the life of a chef and the politics of the kitchen. The food descriptions made me hungry, a testament to the author's talents. A Michelin star-worthy read!
August 8, 2020
I LOVED this book! During these uncertain and isolating times, Verant wrote a story that transported me to another world, a world with delicious food, a strong protagonist, and compelling family dynamics. I can't get enough of books about passionate women who build themselves back up from rock bottom. Also, as a reader who can't cook but loves to eat, the food in this book gave me a lot of joy and comfort. If you're looking for a way to travel to France and enjoy every second through a heartwarming book, don't miss this one.
I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys reading about self-discovery, family secrets, and food. Samantha Verant also posts pictures of her gorgeous food on her social media, so I'd recommend following her everywhere!
I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys reading about self-discovery, family secrets, and food. Samantha Verant also posts pictures of her gorgeous food on her social media, so I'd recommend following her everywhere!
April 13, 2020
I loved this new book by Samantha Verant! It was fun, energetic and delicious read - especially in this crazy pandemic time when I needed something to take me away. I loved the characters and the story and reading about NYC kitchen life as well as the journey the main character takes while going back to France and learning more about her family. I definitely recommend this for a great vacation/beach read or just to lose yourself in a wonderful book! Bravo Samantha!
September 3, 2020
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux by Samantha Verant est magnifique! This book is a joy to read. If you love food, you’ll love the book. If you love celebrating women’s achievements, you’ll love the book. If you love second chances—whether in love or life in general--you guessed it…you’ll love the book.
This is not a heavy-handed ode to feminism, but a fantastic celebration of women. It is a lovely story of Sophie, who happens to be a chef, and her grandmother Odette, who is a chef and entrepreneur. During the story set-up, Sophie seems rough around the edges. Just when she believes she is about to get closer to her dream, she is served a life-shattering dish of sabotage that sends her spiraling downwards. Her grandmother’s ill health seems like the nail in Sophie’s coffin, but it is the catalyst for a life-changing affirmation of Sophie’s past and present passions.
I loved how Sophie blossomed while under the influence of a positive and supportive group of women. I loved that the château was primarily operated by women. I loved that Sophie was finally surrounded by people who believed in and encouraged her. Sophie might not have achieved her goal, but she is clearly on the right track. The one thing I was hoping for but didn’t get my need for Odette and Sophie to thoroughly discuss Sophie’s mother and put that nightmare to rest, but peut être one doesn’t need to rehash the past in order to have a fantastic future.
4.5 stars
I received an advance copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
This is not a heavy-handed ode to feminism, but a fantastic celebration of women. It is a lovely story of Sophie, who happens to be a chef, and her grandmother Odette, who is a chef and entrepreneur. During the story set-up, Sophie seems rough around the edges. Just when she believes she is about to get closer to her dream, she is served a life-shattering dish of sabotage that sends her spiraling downwards. Her grandmother’s ill health seems like the nail in Sophie’s coffin, but it is the catalyst for a life-changing affirmation of Sophie’s past and present passions.
I loved how Sophie blossomed while under the influence of a positive and supportive group of women. I loved that the château was primarily operated by women. I loved that Sophie was finally surrounded by people who believed in and encouraged her. Sophie might not have achieved her goal, but she is clearly on the right track. The one thing I was hoping for but didn’t get my need for Odette and Sophie to thoroughly discuss Sophie’s mother and put that nightmare to rest, but peut être one doesn’t need to rehash the past in order to have a fantastic future.
4.5 stars
I received an advance copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
September 5, 2020
"Rule number one: no crying in the kitchen. I never shed one tear. I did what I had to do and I got it done-no matter the occupational hazards
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux was the perfect novel to read during this pandemic. What’s better than taking a mental vacation to a chateau in the South of France.
This book follows Sophie, a NYC chef who leaves everything behind to start fresh in her mother’s hometown in France.
This was a beautiful and heartwarming story. Women’s fiction is not something I usually seek but I was so curious about this one. And it helps that I loved the cover.
I’m in love with the characters. All of them. This book has so many good characters!
Sophie was such a strong woman and I absolutely loved her and was rooting for her to find her strength back the whole time.
Word of advice. DO NOT read this if you’re hungry. The descriptions of the food was incredible, I was truly upset it wasn’t real.
I’m ready to pack up and move to France because of this book !
This was just an amazing read and it got me out of my book slump. I highly recommend it.
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux was the perfect novel to read during this pandemic. What’s better than taking a mental vacation to a chateau in the South of France.
This book follows Sophie, a NYC chef who leaves everything behind to start fresh in her mother’s hometown in France.
This was a beautiful and heartwarming story. Women’s fiction is not something I usually seek but I was so curious about this one. And it helps that I loved the cover.
I’m in love with the characters. All of them. This book has so many good characters!
Sophie was such a strong woman and I absolutely loved her and was rooting for her to find her strength back the whole time.
Word of advice. DO NOT read this if you’re hungry. The descriptions of the food was incredible, I was truly upset it wasn’t real.
I’m ready to pack up and move to France because of this book !
This was just an amazing read and it got me out of my book slump. I highly recommend it.
April 26, 2020
I am so in love with the writing and all the food references in this book. It made me so hungry to try Sophie's food :) Books set in places I'm not familiar with always pique my interest and this one did not disappoint. I felt as if I was there in France with Sophie, experiencing the culture, the food, the people. It was beautifully written with real emotions and made me want to plan a trip there. Highly recommend this book - you will fall in love with Sophie and her food too!
December 15, 2022
Nice story.
June 28, 2020
What better way to handle the stay at home orders of the Pandemic then to take a mental vacation to a chateau in the south of France. Plus being able to think about wonderful French food without gaining an ounce.
French-born American chef Sophie Valroux had one dream: to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant. She had been working toward this dream since she cooked with her grandmother when she was a child. She attended all the right cooking schools and was now working in a French restaurant in NYC that was waiting to hear if they'd been awarded another star. When her plans go up in flames due to sabotage from a male chef, she gets fired and black listed at all of the NYC restaurants. And if that isn't bad enough, she finds out that her grandmother in France has had a stroke. To get away from all of the negativity in New York and to help her grandmother, she flies to France immediately. She soon finds out that a lot has changed at her grandmother's chateau and it's now a luxury chateau with two restaurants and a vineyard. There she meets her childhood friend, Remi who tries to totally ignores her.
So here she is at a chateau in France feeling like a failure. She has lost her job, her desire to cook and her ability to cook. Everything she makes comes out terrible - the magic is gone. With the help of Remi and her grandmother, she manages to get her desire to cook and talent back and even gets an offer to come back to NY for a highly rated job. She has to decide what it is she really wants out of life and where she can find true happiness.
French-born American chef Sophie Valroux had one dream: to be part of the 1% of female chefs running a Michelin-starred restaurant. She had been working toward this dream since she cooked with her grandmother when she was a child. She attended all the right cooking schools and was now working in a French restaurant in NYC that was waiting to hear if they'd been awarded another star. When her plans go up in flames due to sabotage from a male chef, she gets fired and black listed at all of the NYC restaurants. And if that isn't bad enough, she finds out that her grandmother in France has had a stroke. To get away from all of the negativity in New York and to help her grandmother, she flies to France immediately. She soon finds out that a lot has changed at her grandmother's chateau and it's now a luxury chateau with two restaurants and a vineyard. There she meets her childhood friend, Remi who tries to totally ignores her.
So here she is at a chateau in France feeling like a failure. She has lost her job, her desire to cook and her ability to cook. Everything she makes comes out terrible - the magic is gone. With the help of Remi and her grandmother, she manages to get her desire to cook and talent back and even gets an offer to come back to NY for a highly rated job. She has to decide what it is she really wants out of life and where she can find true happiness.
September 12, 2020
I usually wait 24hrs to digest a book before posting its review. This time, I cannot turn my computer on fast enough so I can share my feelings about The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux. My cheeks are still damp with tears of happiness and warm emotions. This was a fantastic story of deceipt, loss, mental illness, and most importantly family, cooking, love and second chances.
Sophie Valroux had to figure herself out after getting fired from her job at NY restaurant Cendrillon as Chef de Partie. She decides to go back to Champvert, France, to visit her grandmother that she hasn't seen since she was 13. Her grand-mere Odette has noble blood. They are the Varloux de la Tour de Champvert. The story really begins when she arrives at the Chateau. From there, the story is pure magic.
I particularly enjoyed the recipes (detailed at the end of the book), the reader's guide, and the intricate themes of love, family, and loss. This read brought out a lot of beautiful emotions within me. Nobody is perfect, sometime we might do things that might come back to haunt us, but we need to go with our guts. I also loved the facts that many characters initially come across as bad guys, but as you learn their story, you understand that this is just a wall they built to protect themselves.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to live in a fancy chateau in Southwestern France, loves reading about food and second chances, and anyone who enjoys reading about strong female characters.
A big thank you to author Samantha Verant who pulled a few strings in order to get me this memorable e-ARC, to publisher Berkley, and of course Net Galley.
Sophie Valroux had to figure herself out after getting fired from her job at NY restaurant Cendrillon as Chef de Partie. She decides to go back to Champvert, France, to visit her grandmother that she hasn't seen since she was 13. Her grand-mere Odette has noble blood. They are the Varloux de la Tour de Champvert. The story really begins when she arrives at the Chateau. From there, the story is pure magic.
I particularly enjoyed the recipes (detailed at the end of the book), the reader's guide, and the intricate themes of love, family, and loss. This read brought out a lot of beautiful emotions within me. Nobody is perfect, sometime we might do things that might come back to haunt us, but we need to go with our guts. I also loved the facts that many characters initially come across as bad guys, but as you learn their story, you understand that this is just a wall they built to protect themselves.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to live in a fancy chateau in Southwestern France, loves reading about food and second chances, and anyone who enjoys reading about strong female characters.
A big thank you to author Samantha Verant who pulled a few strings in order to get me this memorable e-ARC, to publisher Berkley, and of course Net Galley.
June 28, 2020
This was a wonderfully rich and emotional debut novel that provided a welcome escape into a magical world of culinary riches and captivating characters.
The reasons behind Sophie Valroux’s fall from culinary grace at a top-rated New York eatery are nearly as infuriating as the fact that the industry doesn’t give her a chance to fight back. Her decision to escape the negative spotlight by travelling to her Grand-Mère’s château in the South of France has her facing secrets from her past and her own self-doubt head on.
With lyrical writing and perfect pace, Vérant transports readers seamlessly from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to the decidedly slower-pace of life at the château. As a top chef, Sophie’s story is all about the food and you can hear, smell and, yes, taste everything right alongside her. I have never been hungrier—especially for cheese—when reading a novel.
Supported by a cast of charismatic and engaging secondary characters, led by the fierce and opinionated Grand-Mère Odette, Sophie battles to regain her confidence both in her cooking and her life. Along the way the author tackles several serious topics without making it too heavy or hard to read.
THE SECRET FRENCH RECIPES OF SOPHIE VALROUX had me riveted from page one and saying “just one more chapter” until it was done. I highly recommend you get yourself a copy when it releases on September 8.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and the author for the advance reading copy.
The reasons behind Sophie Valroux’s fall from culinary grace at a top-rated New York eatery are nearly as infuriating as the fact that the industry doesn’t give her a chance to fight back. Her decision to escape the negative spotlight by travelling to her Grand-Mère’s château in the South of France has her facing secrets from her past and her own self-doubt head on.
With lyrical writing and perfect pace, Vérant transports readers seamlessly from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to the decidedly slower-pace of life at the château. As a top chef, Sophie’s story is all about the food and you can hear, smell and, yes, taste everything right alongside her. I have never been hungrier—especially for cheese—when reading a novel.
Supported by a cast of charismatic and engaging secondary characters, led by the fierce and opinionated Grand-Mère Odette, Sophie battles to regain her confidence both in her cooking and her life. Along the way the author tackles several serious topics without making it too heavy or hard to read.
THE SECRET FRENCH RECIPES OF SOPHIE VALROUX had me riveted from page one and saying “just one more chapter” until it was done. I highly recommend you get yourself a copy when it releases on September 8.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and the author for the advance reading copy.
May 9, 2020
The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux provided the perfect escape during the Quarantine-- and I practically read it in one sitting. I love books that transport you to a different place and time, and this book delivered in spades.
It shares the story of a young NYC chef, Sophie, who after a humiliating firing from a top restaurant is determined to mend her broken heart and repair her reputation in the homeland of her mother, La France! At this point, the book really becomes a page turner as we experience Sophie literally transform whilst preparing the most heavenly dishes in a gorgeous French chateau. Oh mon dieu! If you like travel, romance, and food (and what woman doesn't) this book should definitely be on your list. I've spent some time in this area of France and I am impressed at how aptly the author describes the food, culture and region. I am inspired to read Verant's other books.
I received an advance reader's copy and want to thank the author and publisher for this opportunity.
It shares the story of a young NYC chef, Sophie, who after a humiliating firing from a top restaurant is determined to mend her broken heart and repair her reputation in the homeland of her mother, La France! At this point, the book really becomes a page turner as we experience Sophie literally transform whilst preparing the most heavenly dishes in a gorgeous French chateau. Oh mon dieu! If you like travel, romance, and food (and what woman doesn't) this book should definitely be on your list. I've spent some time in this area of France and I am impressed at how aptly the author describes the food, culture and region. I am inspired to read Verant's other books.
I received an advance reader's copy and want to thank the author and publisher for this opportunity.
July 9, 2020
A gorgeous, uplifting story that weaves together the transformative power of food, family, and place, The Secret French Recipes of Sophie Valroux takes the reader on an emotional journey through Sophie's past and present to create a soaring tale of love and awakening. Awash in sensory delights tinged with the sweet ache of nostalgia, this story shines like a bright star in a velvet countryside sky.
Sophie starts out the book an underdog, seemingly crushed by an unfortunate turn of events, only to reawaken the truest heart of her passions when she must travel to France to be with her beloved grandmother. The author's gift for setting is magical, incorporating history and the rooted nature of identity through an immersive engagement with the evocative power of the senses.
Simply put, this book is utterly beautiful, such a feel-good experience, and Sophie is the perfect heroine to root for. Recommended to anyone with a passion for food and travel, searching for the next great comfort read.
Thank you to the author and Berkley for providing an advanced review copy!
Sophie starts out the book an underdog, seemingly crushed by an unfortunate turn of events, only to reawaken the truest heart of her passions when she must travel to France to be with her beloved grandmother. The author's gift for setting is magical, incorporating history and the rooted nature of identity through an immersive engagement with the evocative power of the senses.
Simply put, this book is utterly beautiful, such a feel-good experience, and Sophie is the perfect heroine to root for. Recommended to anyone with a passion for food and travel, searching for the next great comfort read.
Thank you to the author and Berkley for providing an advanced review copy!
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