'The Lollipop Shoes' by Joanne Harris
Having read 'Chocolat' twice and loved it I was hoping this would have the same appeal. I wasn't disappointed I loved it too. It was nice to meet up again with familiar characters from Chocolat and some new ones and a different setting. I found it a bit difficult to settle to it being set in modern times with references to mobile phones. I never actually imagine it in the present day for some reason. It's sense of magic, mystery and the totally mouthwatering references to chocolate of all descriptions made it a delight. Anouk and Vianne with little Rosette (who is her father!), and the devilish Zozie and her cast of characters from the past. You can't help like her to start with and how she helps with the chocolaterie and brightens up the shop and entices customers in, but you then find out she has her motifs and it is a must read to find out the conclusion. Vianne eventually reaslises things are not as they seem and is forced to make choices for the better. If you enjoyed 'Chocolat' I am sure you will like this one too. It is well written and am sorry there will be no more chocolate writing.
5/5