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The Chocolate Tin
Alexandra Frobisher is a modern-thinking woman with hopes of a career in England's famous chocolate-making town of York. She has received several proposals of marriage, although none of them promises that elusive extra – love. Matthew Britten-Jones is a man of charm and strong social standing. He impresses Alex and her parents with his wit and intelligence, but would an amicable union be enough for a fulfilling life together? At the end of the war, Captain Harry Blakeney discovers a dead soldier in a trench in France. In the man's possession is a secret love note, tucked inside a tin of chocolate that had been sent to the soldiers as a gift from the people back home. In pursuit of the author of this mysterious message, Harry travels to Rowntree's chocolate factory in England's north, where his life becomes inextricably bound with Alexandra and Matthew's. Only together will they be able to unlock secrets of the past and offer each other the greatest gift for the future. From the battlefields of northern France to the medieval city of York, this is a heartbreaking tale about a triangle of love in all its forms and a story about the bittersweet taste of life . . . and of chocolate.
432 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2016
369 people are currently reading
1158 people want to read
About the author
Fiona McIntosh
70 books1,987 followersFiona writes best selling historical adventure-romance alongside the heroic-romantic, often brutal, fantasy she built her career upon. She lives in Australia but frequently roams the world meticulously researching the locations and gathering material for her historical novels that have international settings. Her books are published worldwide and in various languages.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
October 18, 2016
Alexandra Frobisher was frustrated by her mother’s constant harping on her lack of a husband – with the war on there was a small respite as the three men who had been chosen as prospective husbands were at the front. But Alex knew she didn’t have long – she shuddered at the thought. Alex’s greatest wish was to work in the Rowntree chocolate factory in her home town of York; to learn the craft and make it her career. But 1915 was a time when young women of means didn’t work – marrying well and supplying grandchildren while supporting their husbands was what was expected. Alex desperately wanted more from her life.
When Matthew Britten-Jones entered her life with a proposal which would suit them both, Alex was tempted. A witty and delightful man, Matthew knew how to make Alex laugh; he had her parents eating out of his hands – but was it enough? Alex knew she didn’t love him, and he, though affectionate, didn’t love her either. But the solution would solve Alex’s dilemma; her future would be assured.
Captain Harry Blakeney returned from the war a changed man. He was determined to visit the Rowntree chocolate factory in York – his quest was to discover the identity of the author of a note of love he’d discovered while recovering bodies in France. The chocolate tin which had been sent to soldiers on the front in 1915 as a Christmas parcel had housed the note; in Harry’s search for the sweetheart of the lost soldier he met up with Alex and Matthew. But what would happen when their lives became bound in an inconceivable way and long buried secrets rose to the surface?
The Chocolate Tin by Aussie author Fiona McIntosh is an emotional and haunting narrative which had me reaching for tissues a few times. Blending mystery, intrigue and heartbreak with the historical romance of the times, the author’s ability to tell the story amid the depth of her research makes The Chocolate Tin an authentic and delightful read. Very highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House Australia for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
When Matthew Britten-Jones entered her life with a proposal which would suit them both, Alex was tempted. A witty and delightful man, Matthew knew how to make Alex laugh; he had her parents eating out of his hands – but was it enough? Alex knew she didn’t love him, and he, though affectionate, didn’t love her either. But the solution would solve Alex’s dilemma; her future would be assured.
Captain Harry Blakeney returned from the war a changed man. He was determined to visit the Rowntree chocolate factory in York – his quest was to discover the identity of the author of a note of love he’d discovered while recovering bodies in France. The chocolate tin which had been sent to soldiers on the front in 1915 as a Christmas parcel had housed the note; in Harry’s search for the sweetheart of the lost soldier he met up with Alex and Matthew. But what would happen when their lives became bound in an inconceivable way and long buried secrets rose to the surface?
The Chocolate Tin by Aussie author Fiona McIntosh is an emotional and haunting narrative which had me reaching for tissues a few times. Blending mystery, intrigue and heartbreak with the historical romance of the times, the author’s ability to tell the story amid the depth of her research makes The Chocolate Tin an authentic and delightful read. Very highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House Australia for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
February 14, 2017
I stored this novel away for a few weeks after I had the pleasure of meeting the author of The Chocolate Tin, Fiona McIntosh. My reason for not reading this book straight away was simple; I was saving it for a guaranteed perfect Christmas read. I’m so glad I did, as The Chocolate Tin was a deliciously indulgent and smooth story that combined all the elements I love in a good book. From love at first sight, to the uncertainty of the Great War, the art of chocolate making, a beautiful historical setting and a fiercely independent female protagonist. What more could a reader ask for!
The Chocolate Tin is focussed on the story of the wealthy Alexandra Frobisher, who is the only child of the Frobisher family. The Frobisher’s want nothing more than to see their daughter settle down and marry, after a number of marriage refusals. Alex on the other hand, is a woman living in the wrong time, she aspires to open her own chocolate making factory. When Alex meets Matthew Britten-Jones a wealthy man with a high social status, she agrees to marry him. To deal breaker to this marriage being Matthew’s promise to Alex, to grant her the freedom to pursue her dreams as a chocolate factory owner. While investigating possibilities for her future business interests, Alex finds herself a Rowntree’s chocolate factory. Here, Mathew’s family is in charge of the essential railway service that transports chocolate to their destinations. Working on the shop floor one day to get a feel for the trade, Alex slips a note in one of the chocolate tins bound for the front. This note is eventually found by a man who travels all the way from the war, in search of its author. What follows in The Chocolate Tin, is Alex’s struggle to make it in the chocolate industry, along with her involvement in a love triangle that develops. These events are all due to the fateful note Alex placed in the chocolate tin.
There is no question that Fiona McIntosh is a powerhouse in the Australian commercial fiction circuit and her timely release of The Chocolate Tin during the lucrative Christmas period, is just perfect for fans of her work. The Chocolate Tin is a wonderful piece of fiction that I inhaled over Christmas. I was so glad to save it as my Christmas read of choice, as I was not disappointed.
The strength in The Chocolate Tin lies in McIntosh’s successful formula. She combines love, history, war, all within the appealing frame of chocolate making. As always, McIntosh takes care to ensure her setting is spot on. Her research is meticulous and faultless. I felt completely immersed in the chocolate making capital of York, England, for the length of the novel. McIntosh’s descriptions of the battlefield on the Great War were also well drawn, making the feeling of war all too real for the reader.
The characters in The Chocolate Tin novel deliver of a mixture of strength, as a well as a good dose of reality and each comes with their own set of flaws. Alex, a leading woman of her time, was a memorable protagonist, who I just couldn’t help but cheer on. Matthew, her husband, was a complex character and his entry into the storyline signals a cracker of a secret. This secret was heartbreaking to read at points in the novel and I applaud McIntosh for handling this storyline with poise.
The romance side in The Chocolate Tin comes from the introduction of Harry, a soldier from the front. This is where McIntosh truly shines, McIntosh conveys the deep feelings of love at first sight, as well as the complications resulting from Alex and Harry’s meeting. On the whole, this was the standout feature of The Chocolate Tin for me.
Readers will be more than pleased by Fiona McIntosh’s latest offering. The Chocolate Tin will take you on a journey into the heart and history of the chocolate making business. An unforgettable tale that receives a full five star rating from this happy reader.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
The Chocolate Tin is focussed on the story of the wealthy Alexandra Frobisher, who is the only child of the Frobisher family. The Frobisher’s want nothing more than to see their daughter settle down and marry, after a number of marriage refusals. Alex on the other hand, is a woman living in the wrong time, she aspires to open her own chocolate making factory. When Alex meets Matthew Britten-Jones a wealthy man with a high social status, she agrees to marry him. To deal breaker to this marriage being Matthew’s promise to Alex, to grant her the freedom to pursue her dreams as a chocolate factory owner. While investigating possibilities for her future business interests, Alex finds herself a Rowntree’s chocolate factory. Here, Mathew’s family is in charge of the essential railway service that transports chocolate to their destinations. Working on the shop floor one day to get a feel for the trade, Alex slips a note in one of the chocolate tins bound for the front. This note is eventually found by a man who travels all the way from the war, in search of its author. What follows in The Chocolate Tin, is Alex’s struggle to make it in the chocolate industry, along with her involvement in a love triangle that develops. These events are all due to the fateful note Alex placed in the chocolate tin.
There is no question that Fiona McIntosh is a powerhouse in the Australian commercial fiction circuit and her timely release of The Chocolate Tin during the lucrative Christmas period, is just perfect for fans of her work. The Chocolate Tin is a wonderful piece of fiction that I inhaled over Christmas. I was so glad to save it as my Christmas read of choice, as I was not disappointed.
The strength in The Chocolate Tin lies in McIntosh’s successful formula. She combines love, history, war, all within the appealing frame of chocolate making. As always, McIntosh takes care to ensure her setting is spot on. Her research is meticulous and faultless. I felt completely immersed in the chocolate making capital of York, England, for the length of the novel. McIntosh’s descriptions of the battlefield on the Great War were also well drawn, making the feeling of war all too real for the reader.
The characters in The Chocolate Tin novel deliver of a mixture of strength, as a well as a good dose of reality and each comes with their own set of flaws. Alex, a leading woman of her time, was a memorable protagonist, who I just couldn’t help but cheer on. Matthew, her husband, was a complex character and his entry into the storyline signals a cracker of a secret. This secret was heartbreaking to read at points in the novel and I applaud McIntosh for handling this storyline with poise.
The romance side in The Chocolate Tin comes from the introduction of Harry, a soldier from the front. This is where McIntosh truly shines, McIntosh conveys the deep feelings of love at first sight, as well as the complications resulting from Alex and Harry’s meeting. On the whole, this was the standout feature of The Chocolate Tin for me.
Readers will be more than pleased by Fiona McIntosh’s latest offering. The Chocolate Tin will take you on a journey into the heart and history of the chocolate making business. An unforgettable tale that receives a full five star rating from this happy reader.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
October 30, 2025
Centered around the Quakers and the chocolate empires of Britain, this amazing novel is more than just a historical novel about a dead soldier and his chocolate tin.
It’s also about
✔️the bitter taste of love lost
✔️misunderstandings that arise due to misinformation
✔️the importance of showing humanity in not judging
✔️the price we pay for love
✔️acceptance
✔️the weight of obligation
✔️the ghosts of war
✔️sisterhood
✔️fate
✔️secrets
✔️appearances; the toll of keeping them and the danger of taking them at face value
✔️new beginnings
Talented author, Fiona McIntosh, takes the above points and uses them as guide points in answering these two questions:
❓What happens next when you discover you have made a regrettable decision?
❓Do you believe that we can’t help whom we love?
I was instantly swept back to England 1915 and kept engrossed in a wonderful story that had me questioning my beliefs and choices. I learned about the British chocolate empire and tried to be one step ahead of Harry Blake as he attempted to free ‘Kitty’ from her regrettable choice.
This would be a fantastic book club selection as it lends itself to discussion:
“We choose whom to spend our lives with, we choose whom we marry, who our friends are, but love … that’s not under our control.”
My only regret: Wishing that the homosexual content wasn’t hidden in the synopsis. I enjoyed the book; it’s a five-star book, but I felt misled. This is the second book in a row where I’ve not been able to make an informed choice about content.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
It’s also about
✔️the bitter taste of love lost
✔️misunderstandings that arise due to misinformation
✔️the importance of showing humanity in not judging
✔️the price we pay for love
✔️acceptance
✔️the weight of obligation
✔️the ghosts of war
✔️sisterhood
✔️fate
✔️secrets
✔️appearances; the toll of keeping them and the danger of taking them at face value
✔️new beginnings
Talented author, Fiona McIntosh, takes the above points and uses them as guide points in answering these two questions:
❓What happens next when you discover you have made a regrettable decision?
❓Do you believe that we can’t help whom we love?
I was instantly swept back to England 1915 and kept engrossed in a wonderful story that had me questioning my beliefs and choices. I learned about the British chocolate empire and tried to be one step ahead of Harry Blake as he attempted to free ‘Kitty’ from her regrettable choice.
This would be a fantastic book club selection as it lends itself to discussion:
“We choose whom to spend our lives with, we choose whom we marry, who our friends are, but love … that’s not under our control.”
My only regret: Wishing that the homosexual content wasn’t hidden in the synopsis. I enjoyed the book; it’s a five-star book, but I felt misled. This is the second book in a row where I’ve not been able to make an informed choice about content.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 7, 2017
I went to hear the author, Fiona MacIntosh talk about the writing of this novel at our local library just before Christmas, and bought a copy. I couldn't wait to get stuck into it. Sadly, I struggled to keep my interest level up enough to finish it, and I'll try to explain why.
In Britain, the Rowntree family organised a shipment of King's Chocolate tins as Christmas gifts for soldiers in the trenches to keep up their morale. Alexandra Frobisher and Matthew Britten-Jones have agreed on a marriage of convenience to get their nagging parents off their backs, and she volunteers as a tour guide and packer at the Rowntree factory in her spare time. One day, Alex makes an impulsive, random addition to one of the tins, which comes back to bite her a few years later.
I really wanted to enjoy this, but the whole romantic element moved way too fast for my sympathy and interest level to keep up with. Harry and Alex seemed to be devoted to each other within a twenty-four hour period. No, actually it was within the one hour period in which she guided him through the factory. That kept the whole thing a bit shallow. I think was meant to come across as intense and romantic, but the whizzing time frame just made them seem reckless and impulsive.
As for the main men themselves - I dunno. Harry made a great initial impression on me, being so thoughtful of others, but then undid it by flirting so blatantly with a married woman the day he met her. That's not even good taste in our time, let alone the prim and proper World War One era. And Matthew seemed to pop in and out of the story like a ghost. Now you see him, now you don't. Sadly, I found the man with the most potential was Tom, who was killed after just a couple of pages.
It is an easy, flowing read, the sort of book where you can get through 100 pages in half an hour, then look at the chunk and wonder, 'What actually happened?' There's a fair bit of sparkling small talk and waffling descriptions about history.
What I did find quite interesting is the description of the Rowntree factory. Any chocolate making I do in my kitchen involves melting down a packet of Nestle or Cadbury buttons, so it was enjoyable to read about the whole process starting with the cocoa beans. I think it would have been nice to have a photo of the actual tin somewhere on the cover, since it was the crux of the whole story. There are still some around, since McIntosh saw one as her inspiration.
Altogether, although this story did make me feel like chocolate, it was disappointingly not my cup of tea, even though I enjoyed Fiona McIntosh's presentation immensely.
For more reviews and book talk, visit my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/
In Britain, the Rowntree family organised a shipment of King's Chocolate tins as Christmas gifts for soldiers in the trenches to keep up their morale. Alexandra Frobisher and Matthew Britten-Jones have agreed on a marriage of convenience to get their nagging parents off their backs, and she volunteers as a tour guide and packer at the Rowntree factory in her spare time. One day, Alex makes an impulsive, random addition to one of the tins, which comes back to bite her a few years later.
I really wanted to enjoy this, but the whole romantic element moved way too fast for my sympathy and interest level to keep up with. Harry and Alex seemed to be devoted to each other within a twenty-four hour period. No, actually it was within the one hour period in which she guided him through the factory. That kept the whole thing a bit shallow. I think was meant to come across as intense and romantic, but the whizzing time frame just made them seem reckless and impulsive.
As for the main men themselves - I dunno. Harry made a great initial impression on me, being so thoughtful of others, but then undid it by flirting so blatantly with a married woman the day he met her. That's not even good taste in our time, let alone the prim and proper World War One era. And Matthew seemed to pop in and out of the story like a ghost. Now you see him, now you don't. Sadly, I found the man with the most potential was Tom, who was killed after just a couple of pages.
It is an easy, flowing read, the sort of book where you can get through 100 pages in half an hour, then look at the chunk and wonder, 'What actually happened?' There's a fair bit of sparkling small talk and waffling descriptions about history.
What I did find quite interesting is the description of the Rowntree factory. Any chocolate making I do in my kitchen involves melting down a packet of Nestle or Cadbury buttons, so it was enjoyable to read about the whole process starting with the cocoa beans. I think it would have been nice to have a photo of the actual tin somewhere on the cover, since it was the crux of the whole story. There are still some around, since McIntosh saw one as her inspiration.
Altogether, although this story did make me feel like chocolate, it was disappointingly not my cup of tea, even though I enjoyed Fiona McIntosh's presentation immensely.
For more reviews and book talk, visit my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/
June 26, 2017
Alexandra Frobisher is fed up with her mother’s constant harping about her need to be married. The year is 1915, but as a modern thinking woman Alexandra wants a career, something that horrifies her mother. To date Alex has attempted to reject several suitors seeking her hand and then she meets Matthew Britten-Jones. He makes her laugh and is fun to be with. Dare she hope that with him she might be able to placate her mother and still pursue her own dreams?
Along with this story there is that of Captain Henry Blakeney who comes across the body of a dead soldier, not from his unit. Yet, something prompts him to want to return this young man’s belongings to his mother. Along with this young soldier’s belonging is an unopened tin of chocolate, one of many sent from Rowntree’s factory to the front. The difference is inside of this one is a handwritten note. Henry hopes a visit to Rowntree’s chocolate factory will help him discover Kitty, the writer of that note. The reader knows that at some point these two stories will connect.
Throughout this book, the reader discovers a lot about the times of the war years and after. The story is a love story. How each reader relates to it may depend a lot on whether you believe in love at first sight or not. If you do, then you probably won’t have problem with the romance. If you don’t, then it may colour the way you view this novel. The characters are all well drawn, although I thought Matthew’s secret was fairly obvious from early on. Ultimately you expect that it will come out.
Some aspects of the ending were a little convenient and yet I was happy with the ending. If you like historical fiction set around the time of the Great War and one that outlines conditions of the times and includes romance, you should enjoy this novel. I found it an engaging read and loved all the chocolate details. Hard not to have cravings for chocolate while reading though.
Along with this story there is that of Captain Henry Blakeney who comes across the body of a dead soldier, not from his unit. Yet, something prompts him to want to return this young man’s belongings to his mother. Along with this young soldier’s belonging is an unopened tin of chocolate, one of many sent from Rowntree’s factory to the front. The difference is inside of this one is a handwritten note. Henry hopes a visit to Rowntree’s chocolate factory will help him discover Kitty, the writer of that note. The reader knows that at some point these two stories will connect.
Throughout this book, the reader discovers a lot about the times of the war years and after. The story is a love story. How each reader relates to it may depend a lot on whether you believe in love at first sight or not. If you do, then you probably won’t have problem with the romance. If you don’t, then it may colour the way you view this novel. The characters are all well drawn, although I thought Matthew’s secret was fairly obvious from early on. Ultimately you expect that it will come out.
Some aspects of the ending were a little convenient and yet I was happy with the ending. If you like historical fiction set around the time of the Great War and one that outlines conditions of the times and includes romance, you should enjoy this novel. I found it an engaging read and loved all the chocolate details. Hard not to have cravings for chocolate while reading though.
January 11, 2017
It has surprised me immensely just how much I've enjoyed reading Fiona McIntosh for the first time. I really didn't think I would like her writing, but that was based purely on the types of customers I sell them to, older women generally.
I really loved Alex Frobisher as a character, she struck me as perhaps the original rebel belle. A woman of higher standing who wants more from her life than marriage for social advancement and a giant house and children.
Set in the English chocolate making region of York during the peacetime immediately following the Great War, The Chocolate Tin not only gives a tidy glimpse into life during this time, but has pages packed full of delicious chocolatey descriptions that I could almost smell as I read.
I read this book quite quickly and had to finish it on my lunch break because I was dying to know if propriety would get the better of everyone or if we would see a mass following of hearts and the total and utter devastation of societal norms in 1915, but I'll let you read it and enjoy the restrained drama for yourself!
If you enjoy authors like Kate Morton, Monica McInerny and Lesley Pearse, you simply cannot go past Fiona McIntosh.
I really loved Alex Frobisher as a character, she struck me as perhaps the original rebel belle. A woman of higher standing who wants more from her life than marriage for social advancement and a giant house and children.
Set in the English chocolate making region of York during the peacetime immediately following the Great War, The Chocolate Tin not only gives a tidy glimpse into life during this time, but has pages packed full of delicious chocolatey descriptions that I could almost smell as I read.
I read this book quite quickly and had to finish it on my lunch break because I was dying to know if propriety would get the better of everyone or if we would see a mass following of hearts and the total and utter devastation of societal norms in 1915, but I'll let you read it and enjoy the restrained drama for yourself!
If you enjoy authors like Kate Morton, Monica McInerny and Lesley Pearse, you simply cannot go past Fiona McIntosh.
August 6, 2016
I have a soft spot for Fiona McIntosh and I'm glad to see her writing like this again. She has a formula - and that formula works - but I think it got a little tired with her last book. As soon as I started THE CHOCOLATE TIN I knew she was in the zone. And I knew I'd love it. Historical fiction, tick. Wonderfully strong and independent women, tick. Romance, intrigue, tick tick tick. She goes down a slightly different path with this one but I was onto it early. And I liked the story and where she took us. I always see her books played out in my mind. I see them as movies, or mini-series, and I just run with it. Fiona McIntosh fans will love this one. I certainly did....
December 7, 2017
Избирам твърдо да вярвам в щастливия край!
Много приятна, интригуваща и шоколадова историческа история, напълно подходяща за студените дни. Макинтош се е постарала да създаде една автентична атмосфера, наситена с аромата на какао, със закостенялостта на 20ти век, с ужасите на Първата световна война, но най-вече с дълбочината и истинността на чувствата, които се развихрят сред нашите герои. И като една добра историческа драма ни оставя на тръни до самия си край, който отново не задоволява напълно читателския глад за стопроцентов, бетониран за поколенията, сладък до диабет хепи енд. Безнадеждна романтичка съм, какво да направя. Но като оставим настрана моята мелодрама, книгата определено е едно сладко изкушение, което не бива да си отказвате :)
Много приятна, интригуваща и шоколадова историческа история, напълно подходяща за студените дни. Макинтош се е постарала да създаде една автентична атмосфера, наситена с аромата на какао, със закостенялостта на 20ти век, с ужасите на Първата световна война, но най-вече с дълбочината и истинността на чувствата, които се развихрят сред нашите герои. И като една добра историческа драма ни оставя на тръни до самия си край, който отново не задоволява напълно читателския глад за стопроцентов, бетониран за поколенията, сладък до диабет хепи енд. Безнадеждна романтичка съм, какво да направя. Но като оставим настрана моята мелодрама, книгата определено е едно сладко изкушение, което не бива да си отказвате :)
September 8, 2020
The Chocolate Tin is exquisitely written for you by Fiona McIntosh.
The Chocolate Tin is deliciously presented, filled with all your favourite goodies wrapped up in a bright, red festive ribbon just in time for Christmas!
It's historical fiction at its very best.
Set in England's famous chocolate town of York where a bright, young girl, Alex Frobisher has hopes and dreams of marrying the one she loves and embarking on a career, hopefully, in the chocolate-making industry.
It's romantic, realistic and thoroughly delightful to read.
It will have your heart pounding!
It's imaginative and fulfilling. It would make an excellent movie. I can picture it now.
You'll be riding fine, dark horses with the one you love, sitting by merry little fires late into the night, drinking cocoa and crunching on your favourite chocolate as you listen to the story and history of Rowntree's famous Chocolate Factory in York.
Set in a time of war when families, usually mothers, saved up cocoa coupons to send the The King's Chocolate Tin to their sons fighting in the war far away to remind them of home and keep their hopes up.
If you love surprises, love-notes and chocolate (or just the idea of chocolate) you are going to love this story.
The scents and flavours of chocolate waft and linger throughout this book.
It's a beautiful story.
Be sure not to miss The Chocolate Tin by Fiona McIntosh this Christmas.
You'll hear about railways and train journeys from York to Brighton and London.
It's the perfect Christmas gift. Wrap it up in a bright, red festive ribbon with your favourite tin of chocolate!
It's the best Christmas present ever!
Thank you, Fiona McIntosh for another outstanding novel.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
The Chocolate Tin is deliciously presented, filled with all your favourite goodies wrapped up in a bright, red festive ribbon just in time for Christmas!
It's historical fiction at its very best.
Set in England's famous chocolate town of York where a bright, young girl, Alex Frobisher has hopes and dreams of marrying the one she loves and embarking on a career, hopefully, in the chocolate-making industry.
It's romantic, realistic and thoroughly delightful to read.
It will have your heart pounding!
It's imaginative and fulfilling. It would make an excellent movie. I can picture it now.
You'll be riding fine, dark horses with the one you love, sitting by merry little fires late into the night, drinking cocoa and crunching on your favourite chocolate as you listen to the story and history of Rowntree's famous Chocolate Factory in York.
Set in a time of war when families, usually mothers, saved up cocoa coupons to send the The King's Chocolate Tin to their sons fighting in the war far away to remind them of home and keep their hopes up.
If you love surprises, love-notes and chocolate (or just the idea of chocolate) you are going to love this story.
The scents and flavours of chocolate waft and linger throughout this book.
It's a beautiful story.
Be sure not to miss The Chocolate Tin by Fiona McIntosh this Christmas.
You'll hear about railways and train journeys from York to Brighton and London.
It's the perfect Christmas gift. Wrap it up in a bright, red festive ribbon with your favourite tin of chocolate!
It's the best Christmas present ever!
Thank you, Fiona McIntosh for another outstanding novel.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
June 30, 2023
The Chocolate Tin is a historical fiction by prolific Australian author Fiona McIntosh set in the 1910s in York. The heroine is rich upper-class girl Alexandra Frobisher whose mother is determined to marry her off as soon as the war is over. Alex wants to make a life of her own and has a dream to work in the Yorkshire Rowntree chocolate factory and then set up a business of her own.
The gallant and charming Matthew Britten-Jones enters the story with an intriguing marriage proposal; not one of love and romance but providing an escape for Alex from her societal role and expectations and guaranteeing her the independence and career she craves. A whimsical note Alex puts into a Christmas chocolate box making its way to the front brings the dashing Captain Harry Blakeney into the story bringing a host of unexpected feelings and complications with him.
This was a pleasant light read, somewhat melodramatic for my taste with some fairly one-dimensional characters and with an insta-romance with no build up to it. 3.5 stars for me.
The gallant and charming Matthew Britten-Jones enters the story with an intriguing marriage proposal; not one of love and romance but providing an escape for Alex from her societal role and expectations and guaranteeing her the independence and career she craves. A whimsical note Alex puts into a Christmas chocolate box making its way to the front brings the dashing Captain Harry Blakeney into the story bringing a host of unexpected feelings and complications with him.
This was a pleasant light read, somewhat melodramatic for my taste with some fairly one-dimensional characters and with an insta-romance with no build up to it. 3.5 stars for me.
January 17, 2018
A bit soppy in some places, but I did enjoy the storyline. The over-sentimentality reminded me of another of Fiona McIntosh's - The Perfumer's Secret, although I think this one was better overall in that respect. And a more interesting and less predictable plot, in general, than that one.
February 2, 2018
I just could't put it down. Oh, how I wish they make a film out of this book!
November 4, 2020
Hands up anyone who likes chocolate. You are in for a treat if you do, as this is the most irresistible book. We have here Alexandra, a very strong-willed female, who doesn't want to be like the rest of the women in her era. What makes it more difficult is, she is born into a family that has lots of money, reeking of it, infact ooooozing with it. Alexandra wants to be independent and within her from a very young age, a fascination with chocolate. An opportunity occurs that's so bizarre that sets her dreams in motion, working at the chocolate factory, but this is not the only factor here, we have Mathew who plans and plots and reveals the most bizarre marriage proposal. Will he win? Will Alexandra be successful in seeking out her independence in business in an age where its frowned upon?
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What an extraordinary person Mathew is. I loved the frank talk he has near the beginning of the book with Alexandra's Dad, Charles and the "contender males" that are marked to marry Alexandra.... however I'm left wondering how Alexandra and Mathew are going to work this out.
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Halfway through this book and character dynamics get extremely interesting, without giving too much away another romance is blooming and things are not what they seem, by this time I was gripped and turning the pages and things started developing in a complicated way, I loved it, yet my thoughts were, that do I bare go on? It was getting too excited. All I can say is - oh what lives we weave with deception... and just leave it there for you to ponder.
This is a recommended from Ellen Read and a gift from Ellen and I'm so glad she picked this book for me, as she certainly knows the books I would love to read. I want to congratulate the author on the extensive research that must have taken place in this most intriguing book. Historical Fiction at it's best, I learnt alot, and I mean alot about the process of chocolate and how it actually gets to be chocolate, which starts off as a chocolate bean that looks like a coffee bean, now there's a thought. I must mention the war, because this is a war time story, but in this story its touched very briefly on and although I have not delved into it with the character assessment here, I chose not too as it's part of this wonderful story that is going to be unfolded when you choose to read it. Lastly the author has such a beautiful prose that it makes up for the dreadful killings in the battlefield. This is an awesome, wonderful, exciting, fantastic book wrapped up with a red bow!.
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Rating System
This is definitely a five star read from me ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Recommendation
Genres are Historical Fiction (France & England) - Romance - Historical Romance.
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What an extraordinary person Mathew is. I loved the frank talk he has near the beginning of the book with Alexandra's Dad, Charles and the "contender males" that are marked to marry Alexandra.... however I'm left wondering how Alexandra and Mathew are going to work this out.
.
Halfway through this book and character dynamics get extremely interesting, without giving too much away another romance is blooming and things are not what they seem, by this time I was gripped and turning the pages and things started developing in a complicated way, I loved it, yet my thoughts were, that do I bare go on? It was getting too excited. All I can say is - oh what lives we weave with deception... and just leave it there for you to ponder.
This is a recommended from Ellen Read and a gift from Ellen and I'm so glad she picked this book for me, as she certainly knows the books I would love to read. I want to congratulate the author on the extensive research that must have taken place in this most intriguing book. Historical Fiction at it's best, I learnt alot, and I mean alot about the process of chocolate and how it actually gets to be chocolate, which starts off as a chocolate bean that looks like a coffee bean, now there's a thought. I must mention the war, because this is a war time story, but in this story its touched very briefly on and although I have not delved into it with the character assessment here, I chose not too as it's part of this wonderful story that is going to be unfolded when you choose to read it. Lastly the author has such a beautiful prose that it makes up for the dreadful killings in the battlefield. This is an awesome, wonderful, exciting, fantastic book wrapped up with a red bow!.
.
Rating System
This is definitely a five star read from me ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
.
Recommendation
Genres are Historical Fiction (France & England) - Romance - Historical Romance.
January 28, 2017
Set primarily in the English town of York during the first world war, The Chocolate Tin follows Alexandra Frosbisher, a strong-willed heroine with hopes of a career in chocolate making. Alexandra is constantly pressured by her parents, in particular her mother, to marry, which goes against everything Alexandra hopes to achieve. She then meets the charming Matthew Britten-Jones, who appears to be the most suited husband; one whom her parents approve, but one who will allow Alex the freedom of following her dream. But all is not what it seems, and when Alex encounters Captain Harry Blakeney at the end of the war, she realises what she may have forsaken for her convenient marriage.
It is hard to compound everything that is The Chocolate Tin in one paragraph. What I enjoy about Fiona's writing, is the ease at which she layers both her characters and the story with intrigue, emotion, drama, and of course romance. Fiona achieves the perfect balance of building a story against a time in history which allows you to simply close your eyes and let her words paint the perfect picture of character, story, and setting. Her use of creating atmosphere and depth in her scenes not only through wonderful description, but also smell and touch, will leave you enamored throughout the entire book.
As for the heroine, Alex is such a likable character. She is strong-willed, modern-thinking and self-assured, but also very deeply emotional. You will follow her thoughts and actions throughout the book and be emotionally engaged in her journey, which creates the perfect page-turner.
Another thing Fiona gets right is the pacing of the story. What could be either a long drawn out saga, or on the other hand a fast-paced drama, is perfectly balanced. There is nothing irrelevant in the pages, and nothing is too lightly brushed over, creating a story that plays out like a movie reel.
I have read in some reviews that readers felt the story too predictable. I can understand how some would draw this conclusion, after all, it is a love triangle. But it's in the way Fiona delivers the story and throws in a few curve balls, that will make you want to keep reading.
Fiona has written a heart-warming, and thought provoking novel that is not only an enjoyable read, but one that will have your mouth-watering for some old-world chocolate. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It is hard to compound everything that is The Chocolate Tin in one paragraph. What I enjoy about Fiona's writing, is the ease at which she layers both her characters and the story with intrigue, emotion, drama, and of course romance. Fiona achieves the perfect balance of building a story against a time in history which allows you to simply close your eyes and let her words paint the perfect picture of character, story, and setting. Her use of creating atmosphere and depth in her scenes not only through wonderful description, but also smell and touch, will leave you enamored throughout the entire book.
As for the heroine, Alex is such a likable character. She is strong-willed, modern-thinking and self-assured, but also very deeply emotional. You will follow her thoughts and actions throughout the book and be emotionally engaged in her journey, which creates the perfect page-turner.
Another thing Fiona gets right is the pacing of the story. What could be either a long drawn out saga, or on the other hand a fast-paced drama, is perfectly balanced. There is nothing irrelevant in the pages, and nothing is too lightly brushed over, creating a story that plays out like a movie reel.
I have read in some reviews that readers felt the story too predictable. I can understand how some would draw this conclusion, after all, it is a love triangle. But it's in the way Fiona delivers the story and throws in a few curve balls, that will make you want to keep reading.
Fiona has written a heart-warming, and thought provoking novel that is not only an enjoyable read, but one that will have your mouth-watering for some old-world chocolate. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 26, 2016
I'm being generous - probably 2.5 stars. We seem to have a recurring theme with Fiona McIntosh of characters falling madly in love and making major live changing decisions after knowing each other 1 day! This had moments that I really loved but in the end was like a better written Mills & Boon!
November 23, 2016
Another enjoyable book by Fiona McIntosh where we learn something and want to visit the location.
November 8, 2025
I can’t decide between 3.5 and 4 stars right now but it was a really fun read and I loved listening to it. Fiona Mcintosh is definitely a talented author. The only downside making me doubt it being a 4 is that I guessed the plot twist and many other scenes felt predictable.
April 19, 2020
Had this on the shelf for years, finally read and thoroughly enjoyed it. An author I’ve not read before, and in the early part of the book the use of ‘gusted’ as a dialogue tag bothered me, and in places I felt the way historical information was integrated was a little clumsy.
But these small quibbles aside, what a book! None of this troubled me once the story really got going. The author’s characterisation was superb, and although I struggle with the romance is beautifully developed. In fact all of the central relationships are very well-drawn, her characters sympathetic.
There’s a good sense of time and place as well - York, immediately post-World War I. McIntosh also does a great job of bringing out the prevailing values and mood of the era. I guessed the secret one of her characters held, but the way this storyline later developed took me completely by surprise. It was very sensitively handled, and showed great reserves of compassion and wise judgement in Alex that made an already strong character even more so in my view.
The act of stowing a secret letter in a chocolate tin destined for an unknown soldier at the front is an act of whimsy on Alex’s part, one with far-reaching repercussions. Not to give anything away, it’s not only Alex and Harry, the man who brings the note to York to seek its author, who are affected. It’s a lovely plot device, showing how a single, impulsive act of kindness can ripple out and have such wholly unforeseen effects.
Another strength of this book was meeting two different characters for the space of a single chapter, although one of them is referred to elsewhere. In each case, I found these chapters two of the most moving in the book. These two chapters could be a master-class on how to create character. Meet Tom Fletcher and Bethany yourself, and see what you think. Great skill shown here.
In summary, a great read. I see this author’s written several books, I suspect at some point I’ll read them all!
But these small quibbles aside, what a book! None of this troubled me once the story really got going. The author’s characterisation was superb, and although I struggle with the romance is beautifully developed. In fact all of the central relationships are very well-drawn, her characters sympathetic.
There’s a good sense of time and place as well - York, immediately post-World War I. McIntosh also does a great job of bringing out the prevailing values and mood of the era. I guessed the secret one of her characters held, but the way this storyline later developed took me completely by surprise. It was very sensitively handled, and showed great reserves of compassion and wise judgement in Alex that made an already strong character even more so in my view.
The act of stowing a secret letter in a chocolate tin destined for an unknown soldier at the front is an act of whimsy on Alex’s part, one with far-reaching repercussions. Not to give anything away, it’s not only Alex and Harry, the man who brings the note to York to seek its author, who are affected. It’s a lovely plot device, showing how a single, impulsive act of kindness can ripple out and have such wholly unforeseen effects.
Another strength of this book was meeting two different characters for the space of a single chapter, although one of them is referred to elsewhere. In each case, I found these chapters two of the most moving in the book. These two chapters could be a master-class on how to create character. Meet Tom Fletcher and Bethany yourself, and see what you think. Great skill shown here.
In summary, a great read. I see this author’s written several books, I suspect at some point I’ll read them all!
February 6, 2017
Fiona McIntosh's riveting new novel, The Chocolate Tin, is a story about Alexandra Frobisher, a modern thinking woman who has the hopes and dreams to break free society's rigid ways, make a career in England's famous chocolate-making town of York and marry the one she loves. From the battlefields of northern France to her hometown of York, Alexandra finds herself riddled in a heartbreaking and beautiful story of love and loss.
With a unique blend of historical romance, intrigue and captivating mystery, this truly moving story will bewitch anyone and everyone. Fiona McIntosh's writing will allure the mind, ensnare the senses and seduce the heart. The Chocolate Tin is an authentically compelling story that you should never pass the opportunity to read.
– Bronte, QBD Runaway Bay
With a unique blend of historical romance, intrigue and captivating mystery, this truly moving story will bewitch anyone and everyone. Fiona McIntosh's writing will allure the mind, ensnare the senses and seduce the heart. The Chocolate Tin is an authentically compelling story that you should never pass the opportunity to read.
– Bronte, QBD Runaway Bay
March 23, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed The Chocolate Tin. It was set in the beautiful English town of York during and following the Great War (WWI). The chocolate tin was a Christmas gift from the King to the troops in the trenches in 1915.
I loved the characters and could easily relate to them.
Alexandra Frobisher is a modern-thinking woman with hopes of a career in England's famous chocolate-making town. This isn't easily achieved because she is from a wealthy family and her parents won't allow her to work.
Matthew Britten-Jones is charming and handsome. He impresses Alex and her parents with his wit and intelligence.
At the end of the war, Captain Henry Blakeney discovers a dead soldier in a trench in France and finds a secret love note tucked into a chocolate tin in the man's pocket. Harry travels to York in pursuit of the author of this note, where his life in inextricably bound to Alexandra's and Matthew's.
It is a great story and deals with very modern issues.
I loved the characters and could easily relate to them.
Alexandra Frobisher is a modern-thinking woman with hopes of a career in England's famous chocolate-making town. This isn't easily achieved because she is from a wealthy family and her parents won't allow her to work.
Matthew Britten-Jones is charming and handsome. He impresses Alex and her parents with his wit and intelligence.
At the end of the war, Captain Henry Blakeney discovers a dead soldier in a trench in France and finds a secret love note tucked into a chocolate tin in the man's pocket. Harry travels to York in pursuit of the author of this note, where his life in inextricably bound to Alexandra's and Matthew's.
It is a great story and deals with very modern issues.
December 3, 2016
I saved this book to read on a short holiday. From beginning to end I was captivated by the plot and characters. So enjoyable. I hope that a sequel is in the wings!
August 12, 2024
Fiona McIntosh always spins a good yarn, and this one was good but it didn't blow me away. Can I say, I would've liked more chocolate???
Set in York at the time of the Great War, this is the story of Alexandra Frobisher, an upper class young woman ahead of her time. Her parents would both like to see her married off, but Alex wants to do something with her life before that happens. Drawn to the heady world of chocolate that is based mainly in her own city, she is unsure how to get her foot in the door until she meets the agreeable Matthew Britten-Jones. The two take an almost instant liking to each other, so when Matthew puts a proposal to Alex that seems to give both parties exactly what they are looking for, Alex agrees. Love can arrive later.
Meanwhile Captain Harry Blake has returned to the former battlefields of France to find the bodies of British soldiers so that families can have certainty over the fate of their loved ones. The first he finds is a soldier of the West Yorkshire Regiment, and amongst the possessions he still carries is an intact chocolate tin.
It was the King’s Tin of Chocolate from Christmas 1915; he had received an identical gift from Rowntree’s, although his chocolate was long ago consumed and he now used his tin for small keepsakes. He knew precisely what this one contained, from the chocolate itself to the postcards, pencil and matches in the sliding compartment behind.
But there was one item in the tin that took him by surprise - a love letter from a person by the name of Kitty. So he decides to return the soldiers belongings to the family and to track down this Kitty. His quest takes him to York...
It's a pretty simple idea for a story, and it was clear to me where the tension was going to come from quite early in the book. Still, I enjoyed listening to the mystery unfold to its convenient conclusion.
Set in York at the time of the Great War, this is the story of Alexandra Frobisher, an upper class young woman ahead of her time. Her parents would both like to see her married off, but Alex wants to do something with her life before that happens. Drawn to the heady world of chocolate that is based mainly in her own city, she is unsure how to get her foot in the door until she meets the agreeable Matthew Britten-Jones. The two take an almost instant liking to each other, so when Matthew puts a proposal to Alex that seems to give both parties exactly what they are looking for, Alex agrees. Love can arrive later.
Meanwhile Captain Harry Blake has returned to the former battlefields of France to find the bodies of British soldiers so that families can have certainty over the fate of their loved ones. The first he finds is a soldier of the West Yorkshire Regiment, and amongst the possessions he still carries is an intact chocolate tin.
It was the King’s Tin of Chocolate from Christmas 1915; he had received an identical gift from Rowntree’s, although his chocolate was long ago consumed and he now used his tin for small keepsakes. He knew precisely what this one contained, from the chocolate itself to the postcards, pencil and matches in the sliding compartment behind.
But there was one item in the tin that took him by surprise - a love letter from a person by the name of Kitty. So he decides to return the soldiers belongings to the family and to track down this Kitty. His quest takes him to York...
It's a pretty simple idea for a story, and it was clear to me where the tension was going to come from quite early in the book. Still, I enjoyed listening to the mystery unfold to its convenient conclusion.
October 11, 2025
This was a lovely and informative story. Set in 1914 it tells of a young women desperately wanting to "do her bit" for the war by working in the Rowntrees factory sending the famous chocolate tins out to soldiers at the front as well as working in the hospital. This was so interesting I found out so much about this era and all that chocolate yummy. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
July 16, 2018
Не ме бива да си избирам леки летни четива. Любовната история между Хари и Алекс беше всичко друго, ама не и лека за четене - сърчицето ми не спря да тупти от вълнение и притеснение дали ще се получи всичко накрая.
Иначе...
Първо, както очаквах след толкова приказки за шоколад, напълно ми се уби вкусът за този тъмен и течен елексир.
Второ, историята можеше да е една идея по-къса ако всичките безумни описания на обстановката и природата бяха разкарани. Много ме дразнеха.
Трето, този край на историята си е откровено неподходящ за любовен роман. Не знам дали на авторката или на някой редактор му е хрумнала "гениалната" идея за този край, но такъв край на любовен роман си е чист садизъм.
Романът ме остави със сладко-горчиво усещане - от една страна ми допадна и главата ми е пълна каша от мисли за главните ни герои и защо трябваше всичката тази мизерия да се случи?! От друга страна толково абсурдно и нелепо изглеждаха някои неща, че... ох... ми идваше си блъскам главата в стената.
Трудна за описване книга - хем ме плени, хем ме отблъсна... точно като при шоколада. :)
Иначе...
Първо, както очаквах след толкова приказки за шоколад, напълно ми се уби вкусът за този тъмен и течен елексир.
Второ, историята можеше да е една идея по-къса ако всичките безумни описания на обстановката и природата бяха разкарани. Много ме дразнеха.
Трето, този край на историята си е откровено неподходящ за любовен роман. Не знам дали на авторката или на някой редактор му е хрумнала "гениалната" идея за този край, но такъв край на любовен роман си е чист садизъм.
Романът ме остави със сладко-горчиво усещане - от една страна ми допадна и главата ми е пълна каша от мисли за главните ни герои и защо трябваше всичката тази мизерия да се случи?! От друга страна толково абсурдно и нелепо изглеждаха някои неща, че... ох... ми идваше си блъскам главата в стената.
Трудна за описване книга - хем ме плени, хем ме отблъсна... точно като при шоколада. :)
January 17, 2017
**The Chocolate Tin - Fiona McIntosh** - 5 Stars
Another 5 star read. Fiona's books always take me to yet another part of the world I must visit. Due to a busy schedule saw the read of this novel take so much longer than traditionally. Pleasingly this allowed me to spend more time in York, London and learning more of chocolate making.
This read was all the more enjoyable having been to an author talk prior to reading the novel. Thank you Fiona for finding the time to spend with your devour readers. Fiona's descriptive writing immersed me in the time, emotions and place of the story. Alex's internal conflicts of her chosen marriage, and then possibly meeting the man of her dreams lead to some interesting emotions, decisions, and outcomes.
I particularly liked learning more about York, the heartbreak of war and the amazing efforts of the women who stepped up to assist in the war effort and keep the country running. The opportunity for these strong women to hold their own and show there worth always amazes me. It always make me so much more indebted to these women for the opportunities I now take for granted.
As always, a highly recommended read. Sorry I have to wait a whole year for our next book! Where will I be travelling next?
Proudly supporting Australian Authors!
Another 5 star read. Fiona's books always take me to yet another part of the world I must visit. Due to a busy schedule saw the read of this novel take so much longer than traditionally. Pleasingly this allowed me to spend more time in York, London and learning more of chocolate making.
This read was all the more enjoyable having been to an author talk prior to reading the novel. Thank you Fiona for finding the time to spend with your devour readers. Fiona's descriptive writing immersed me in the time, emotions and place of the story. Alex's internal conflicts of her chosen marriage, and then possibly meeting the man of her dreams lead to some interesting emotions, decisions, and outcomes.
I particularly liked learning more about York, the heartbreak of war and the amazing efforts of the women who stepped up to assist in the war effort and keep the country running. The opportunity for these strong women to hold their own and show there worth always amazes me. It always make me so much more indebted to these women for the opportunities I now take for granted.
As always, a highly recommended read. Sorry I have to wait a whole year for our next book! Where will I be travelling next?
Proudly supporting Australian Authors!
October 20, 2021
I think I may have found a new favourite author. I often steer away from adult fiction because it's about marriage or kids or death, but that strangely doesn't hold as much for historical fiction. This book was about marriage, it was an incredibly complex story, of which marriage was only one part.
Fiona McIntosh successfully managed to evoke the world of 1915 through to 1920 in this amazing book about the Frobisher family, the parents wanting to hold onto the old ways of marriage between good families and the daughter wishing to come into the new age of times and create her very own chocolate shop.
When Matthew Britten-Jones comes into their lives, he comes with a secret, yet he offers a way out for the whole Frobisher family to be happy with. Alex will have her marriage and also be able to work towards the chocolate shop she so wants to create.
This book is told between the points of view of Alex Frobisher and the newcomer Harry Blake who comes in and uncovers a couple of secrets that change everyone's lives irrevocably. It's not a simple story, yet it's heartwarming and had me awake well into the night reading when I should have been sleeping.
~
Similar to: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
Fiona McIntosh successfully managed to evoke the world of 1915 through to 1920 in this amazing book about the Frobisher family, the parents wanting to hold onto the old ways of marriage between good families and the daughter wishing to come into the new age of times and create her very own chocolate shop.
When Matthew Britten-Jones comes into their lives, he comes with a secret, yet he offers a way out for the whole Frobisher family to be happy with. Alex will have her marriage and also be able to work towards the chocolate shop she so wants to create.
This book is told between the points of view of Alex Frobisher and the newcomer Harry Blake who comes in and uncovers a couple of secrets that change everyone's lives irrevocably. It's not a simple story, yet it's heartwarming and had me awake well into the night reading when I should have been sleeping.
~
Similar to: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
February 3, 2018
The Chocolate Tin is the latest novel by Australian author Fiona McIntosh. Told in the third person, it is the story of Alexandra Froshbisher as she strives to be an independent woman during the Great War in York, England. It is also the story of Captain Harry Blakeney as he attempts to discover the author of a love note found in a tin of Rowntree chocolate. Fate will bring these two together but also tear them apart in most unexpected ways.
Fiona’s research is evident in the intricate details of the time as I felt like I was transported to 1915 to live through the horrors and the joys. The horrors of war, homophobia and women fighting to escape the Victorian era are all covered in depth. I felt like I learnt so much from this book! In contrast, the simple pleasures of chocolate are truly celebrated here. Reading about the science of chocolate was a pure delight as was learning of the importance of this confectionary during the second world war. I didn’t know that chocolate was sent to the soldiers or the happiness it would bring them. Not much has changed as over a hundred years later chocolate can still bring a sense of comfort!
AWWC #4
Fiona’s research is evident in the intricate details of the time as I felt like I was transported to 1915 to live through the horrors and the joys. The horrors of war, homophobia and women fighting to escape the Victorian era are all covered in depth. I felt like I learnt so much from this book! In contrast, the simple pleasures of chocolate are truly celebrated here. Reading about the science of chocolate was a pure delight as was learning of the importance of this confectionary during the second world war. I didn’t know that chocolate was sent to the soldiers or the happiness it would bring them. Not much has changed as over a hundred years later chocolate can still bring a sense of comfort!
AWWC #4
October 21, 2019
I have been disappointed with the last two Fiona McIntosh books I've read, but this one had me from the first page. I found the process of chocolate making in 1915 fascinating and I liked the descriptions of post WWI York, where The Chocolate Tin was set.
Alex was a strong, modern young woman and I liked her from the start. I appreciated the fact that she wanted to set up her own chocolate despite her mother's protestations and society's restrictions on women. On the other hand, Matthew grated on me and was too charming for me. I didn't trust him from the first moment he and Alex met, and with reason. I also guessed his secret early on but I did feel sorry for him later on. Harry, however, was perfect for Alex, but I wanted a more definite ending.
The Chocolate Tin was well-paced and I was surprised how quickly I finished it. I was engrossed with the lives of Alex, Matthew and Harry, and enjoyed the historical aspect of the novel. Overall, a heartwarming read.
Alex was a strong, modern young woman and I liked her from the start. I appreciated the fact that she wanted to set up her own chocolate despite her mother's protestations and society's restrictions on women. On the other hand, Matthew grated on me and was too charming for me. I didn't trust him from the first moment he and Alex met, and with reason. I also guessed his secret early on but I did feel sorry for him later on. Harry, however, was perfect for Alex, but I wanted a more definite ending.
The Chocolate Tin was well-paced and I was surprised how quickly I finished it. I was engrossed with the lives of Alex, Matthew and Harry, and enjoyed the historical aspect of the novel. Overall, a heartwarming read.
February 28, 2017
It's just after the first world war when Alex decides to marry Matthew. It's a marriage of convenience, as many well-to-do families settled on during that time, and although they grew fond of each other as friends. Matthew, however, continued his undercover, clandestine relationship with his lover, James.
The story unfolds in York, UK, and wraps itself around the Rowntree chocolate industry and Alex's ambition to open her own shops, making and selling exquisite chocolates. Marriage to Matthew enabled her to seek this. At the same time, a soldier who'd found a note in a chocolate tin in France arrived on the scene to seek the owner of this note. Harry and Alex fell in love but they both had other obligations. It was only some years later that Harry was able to return to York to find her.
I loved the story and the interesting history the characters were embroiled in.
The story unfolds in York, UK, and wraps itself around the Rowntree chocolate industry and Alex's ambition to open her own shops, making and selling exquisite chocolates. Marriage to Matthew enabled her to seek this. At the same time, a soldier who'd found a note in a chocolate tin in France arrived on the scene to seek the owner of this note. Harry and Alex fell in love but they both had other obligations. It was only some years later that Harry was able to return to York to find her.
I loved the story and the interesting history the characters were embroiled in.
January 7, 2017
The Chocolate Tin is, let's say, not my usual read. If I had to categorize it I would say it is a Historical/romantic/drama fiction. And I tend to lean away from such historically based novels, mostly because I have a very limited amount of tolerance for what I personally believe was a stifling era for women. But this novel exceeded my expectations. I was enchanted from the get go with Alex and her modern (for 1915) thoughts and actions. I immensely enjoyed following her journey and the battles she had to wage and win to accomplish her dream.
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