Chocolat (Chocolat #1) by Joanne Harris

From Goodreads

When the exotic stranger Vianne Rocher arrives in the old French village of Lansquenet and opens a chocolate boutique called “La Celeste Praline” directly across the square from the church, Father Reynaud identifies her as a serious danger to his flock. It is the beginning of Lent: the traditional season of self-denial. The priest says she’ll be out of business by Easter.

To make matters worse, Vianne does not go to church and has a penchant for superstition. Like her mother, she can read Tarot cards. But she begins to win over customers with her smiles, her intuition for everyone’s favourites, and her delightful confections. Her shop provides a place, too, for secrets to be whispered, grievances aired. She begins to shake up the rigid morality of the community. Vianne’s plans for an Easter Chocolate Festival divide the whole community. 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, emerging as an agent of transformation. Rich, clever, and mischievous, reminiscent of a folk tale or fable, this is a triumphant read with a memorable character at its heart. 

My thoughts

It's 20 years since this book was published and while I've watched the film several times, I've never read the book until now.

I gave this a 4/5 stars or 8/10.

People are always suspicious of strangers arriving in their midst and this is no different to the inhabitants of Lansquenet when Vianne and her young daughter Anouk arrive and take over an abandoned shop, turning it into a shop that sells all things Chocolate. Who doesn't love a good chocolate and it's not long before Vianne is inundated with customers, both young and old.

Vianne has an air about her that sets people at ease and it's not too long before she finds herself privy to plenty of secrets and desires, as her customers take to her well and feel that they can confide in her.

Father Reynaud the local priest, sees Vianne as a threat to his position in the village and if truth be told he's rather jealous of her.

To see how this story plays out you'll have to grab a copy for yourself.

I found it a well written read that at times is dark and airs on the side of a gothic tale. Told in alternate POV from Vianne and Father Reynaud. With plenty of secrets and some romance this will keep you reading to see what happens.