Maggie's Kitchen by Caroline Beecham

Okay so, initially the combination of a wartime setting mixed with the idea of cooking began to hit the snooze button in my brain. I could tell from the get-go that this book wasn't going to be my cup of tea.

But it's a beautiful thing when a book opens up your mind to new genres and new experiences. Just like Maggie's Kitchen did for me. How amazing it is to become less closed off to certain genres and to now develop the ability to look a little deeper into what a story has to offer. Maggie's Kitchen offers to it's readers a story of bravery and spirit, fighting for one's dream despite the numerous obstacles threatening to prevent that. 

Beecham finds a gorgeous balance between all the layers presented to readers in this story; the threat of war, the strength of bonds between friends and family, a little bit of romance and the sheer determination of all characters. By balance I mean that each layer or device has it's own influence on the plot in just the right way that it keeps you hooked the entire time. Not in a confronting or surprising way, but in a gentle, subtle and uplifting way. 

You guys know how much I love strong protagonists who, hopefully, fight against stereotypes and don't act the Damsel-in-Distress. So I was pleasantly surprised when I was introduced to Maggie Johnson. Her strength in the face of opposition but also her willingness to accept her weaknesses and know when she needs the assistance and wisdom of her friends makes her the kind of character I could connect to. I felt Maggie's experiences, her wins and her losses, her desperation. And that's what makes for a story that someone can enjoy. 

This story promises historical fiction but it is not too strict on that. There is just enough of it to awaken you, the reader, into what times were like back then. Really, this is a book about life and all the curve balls it throws at you.

This wonderful light-hearted novel kept me entertained until the ending and even then I didn't want to close the back cover. If you're in need of a story to keep your spirits alive and remind you that your dreams are achievable with a little bit of hard work, then I would strongly recommend Maggie's Kitchen. 

Published: 27th July 2016, Allen & Unwin

Recommended Retail Price (RRP): $29.99

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 

Don't forget to share the word around and find the page on Facebook and give it a like! This blog means the world to me and is such a great experience! 

Maggie's Kitchen by Caroline Beecham

Okay so, initially the combination of a wartime setting mixed with the idea of cooking began to hit the snooze button in my brain. I could tell from the get-go that this book wasn't going to be my cup of tea.

But it's a beautiful thing when a book opens up your mind to new genres and new experiences. Just like Maggie's Kitchen did for me. How amazing it is to become less closed off to certain genres and to now develop the ability to look a little deeper into what a story has to offer. Maggie's Kitchen offers to it's readers a story of bravery and spirit, fighting for one's dream despite the numerous obstacles threatening to prevent that. 

Beecham finds a gorgeous balance between all the layers presented to readers in this story; the threat of war, the strength of bonds between friends and family, a little bit of romance and the sheer determination of all characters. By balance I mean that each layer or device has it's own influence on the plot in just the right way that it keeps you hooked the entire time. Not in a confronting or surprising way, but in a gentle, subtle and uplifting way. 

You guys know how much I love strong protagonists who, hopefully, fight against stereotypes and don't act the Damsel-in-Distress. So I was pleasantly surprised when I was introduced to Maggie Johnson. Her strength in the face of opposition but also her willingness to accept her weaknesses and know when she needs the assistance and wisdom of her friends makes her the kind of character I could connect to. I felt Maggie's experiences, her wins and her losses, her desperation. And that's what makes for a story that someone can enjoy. 

This story promises historical fiction but it is not too strict on that. There is just enough of it to awaken you, the reader, into what times were like back then. Really, this is a book about life and all the curve balls it throws at you.

This wonderful light-hearted novel kept me entertained until the ending and even then I didn't want to close the back cover. If you're in need of a story to keep your spirits alive and remind you that your dreams are achievable with a little bit of hard work, then I would strongly recommend Maggie's Kitchen. 

Published: 27th July 2016, Allen & Unwin

Recommended Retail Price (RRP): $29.99

Rated 4 out of 5 stars. 

Don't forget to share the word around and find the page on Facebook and give it a like! This blog means the world to me and is such a great experience!