Chocolat by Joanne Harris ~ Started: 26.12.10 ~ Finished: 06.01.11
Synopsis ~
Try me...Test me...Taste me...
When an exotic stranger, Vianne Rocher, arrives in the French village of Lansquenet and opens a chocolate boutique directly opposite the church, Father Reynaud identifies her as a serious danger to his flock - especially as it is the beginning of Lent, the traditional season of self-denial. War is declared as the priest denounces the newcomer's wares as the ultimate sin.
Suddenly Vianne's shop/café means that there is somewhere for secrets to be whispered, grievances to be aired, dreams to be tested. But Vianne's plans for an Easter Chocolate Festival divide the whole community in a conflict that escalates into a 'Church not Chocolate' battle. As mouths water in anticipation, can the solemnity of the Church compare with the pagan passion of a chocolate éclair?
For the first time here is a novel in which chocolate enjoys its true importance. Rich, clever and mischievous, Chocolat is a literary feast for all senses.
'Chocolat' is the story of Vianne Rocher (one of her many names) and her daughter Anouk who set up home in the small village of Lansquenet in France just as Lent begins, much to the chagrin of the local priest, Father Reynaud, Vianne opens a chocolate shop opposite the church, Father Reynaud sees this as disrespectful and tempting his flock to break their lent vows, which is the furthest thing from Vianne's mind, she is there to help and give pleasure with her vast array of chocolates. Some members of the village see Vianne and Anouk as different, to be judged, they do not tolerate anyone different in their village, despite this, Vianne and Anouk begin to make friends in the village who become regulars in the shop and in their own special way, Vianne and Anouk help them, Vianne also accepts the travellers who arrive at Lansquenet along with other members of the village. With the help of Vianne, the villagers begin to open their eyes to their lives and the changes they can make, how will Father Reynaud deal with this?
What I thought of 'Chocolat' ~
It took me some time to finally read 'Chocolat' and I enjoyed it, Joanne Harris has a wonderful talent of describing places and chocolate!, the book is nicely written and I loved the magical aspect of it. I hope to read the sequel 'The Lollipop Shoes' at some point.
A lovely read.