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Amour et Chocolat #2
Шоколадова магия
Шоколадът и вещиците
„Къщата на вещиците“, чиято витрина е омагьосана гора от сладкиши, замък от горчив черен шоколад и принц на кон от сладък бял шоколад, е владението на Магали Шодрон и на двете й лели.
Специалитетът на Магали е горещият шоколад – лесен за приготвяне и в същото време божествено вкусен особено когато го е правила тя. Може би тайната на великолепния му вкус се крие в усмивката по лицето й, докато го разбърква. Или пък в ...заклинанията за сбъдване на желания, които тайно добавя в омайващата напитка.
Принцът на сладкишите
Филип Лионe е парижкият принц на сладкишите. Неговите макарони съчетават различни вкусове, които се топят в устата, галят небцето и оставят неповторим вълшебен вкус. Когато решава да отвори клон на световноизвестните си сладкарници на няколко крачки от „Къщата на вещиците“, сблъсъкът му с Магали е неизбежен...
Дали омагьосващият горещ шоколад ще надвие арогантната самоувереност на Филип?
„Къщата на вещиците“, чиято витрина е омагьосана гора от сладкиши, замък от горчив черен шоколад и принц на кон от сладък бял шоколад, е владението на Магали Шодрон и на двете й лели.
Специалитетът на Магали е горещият шоколад – лесен за приготвяне и в същото време божествено вкусен особено когато го е правила тя. Може би тайната на великолепния му вкус се крие в усмивката по лицето й, докато го разбърква. Или пък в ...заклинанията за сбъдване на желания, които тайно добавя в омайващата напитка.
Принцът на сладкишите
Филип Лионe е парижкият принц на сладкишите. Неговите макарони съчетават различни вкусове, които се топят в устата, галят небцето и оставят неповторим вълшебен вкус. Когато решава да отвори клон на световноизвестните си сладкарници на няколко крачки от „Къщата на вещиците“, сблъсъкът му с Магали е неизбежен...
Дали омагьосващият горещ шоколад ще надвие арогантната самоувереност на Филип?
352 pages, Paperback
First published December 24, 2012
About the author
Laura Florand
25 books903 followersLaura Florand is the international bestselling and award-winning author of fifteen books, including the Vie en Roses series (Once Upon a Rose), the Paris Hearts series (All for You), and the Amour et Chocolat series (The Chocolate Thief). Selected by NPR for their Top 100 Romance list, her books have appeared in ten languages, been nominated for RT Reviewers’ Choice Best Book of the Year, received the RT Seal of Excellence and numerous starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Library Journal, and been recommended by USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.
She was born in Georgia, but the travel bug bit her early. After a Fulbright year in Tahiti, a semester in Spain, and backpacking everywhere from New Zealand to Greece, she ended up living in Paris, where she met and married her own handsome Frenchman, a story told in her first book Blame It on Paris. Now a lecturer at Duke University, she is very dedicated to her research into French chocolate. For a glimpse behind the scenes of some of that research as well as recommendations for US chocolate, make sure to check out her website: www.lauraflorand.com.
She was born in Georgia, but the travel bug bit her early. After a Fulbright year in Tahiti, a semester in Spain, and backpacking everywhere from New Zealand to Greece, she ended up living in Paris, where she met and married her own handsome Frenchman, a story told in her first book Blame It on Paris. Now a lecturer at Duke University, she is very dedicated to her research into French chocolate. For a glimpse behind the scenes of some of that research as well as recommendations for US chocolate, make sure to check out her website: www.lauraflorand.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
February 8, 2015
This book is basically a big macaron orgasm. *heart eyes*
September 30, 2014
Sometimes, lowering your expectations is a good thing. You might end up getting more than you thought you would.
A few people warned me that The Chocolate Kiss didn't have the same magic as its predecessor, The Chocolate Thief, and this is true.
But that doesn't mean this book isn't magical in its own right. It's just a different kind of magic. Where book 1 was sparkles, rainbows, and unicorns, book 2 was more like a rabbit being pulled out of a hat. I don't even say that as a bad thing. It's just a different type of magic, one less grandiose and in-your-face.
The setting itself counts as part of this magic. Picture a chocolate shop/tea house filled with hats and witches and references to sorcery. I'd want to hang out there.
Anyone remember the movie You've Got Mail? If not, I'll refresh your memory. The lead female had this adorable, magical little book shop. The lead male moved into town with a big box book store. Their rivalry ended up sparking something more. This is sort of the premise for Chocolate Kiss. Magalie has the charming little shop. Philippe has the notoriety of being one of Paris' most famous pastry chefs. So of course, when Philippe moves in on Magalie's block, there's going to be some tension and rivalry.
Rivalry (as a rule) can make for some entertaining fights and encounters. This book doesn't disappoint.
I love reading "neighbor from hell" stories. It's much more fun to watch enemies become friends than it is to see people who instantly like each other.
I may not be tripping all over myself the way I was with reviewing the previous book but I still thought this was cute, sweet and had the perfect amount of rivalry tension to make the story delectable.
He knew their bad start was getting even worse, and he loved it.
A few people warned me that The Chocolate Kiss didn't have the same magic as its predecessor, The Chocolate Thief, and this is true.
But that doesn't mean this book isn't magical in its own right. It's just a different kind of magic. Where book 1 was sparkles, rainbows, and unicorns, book 2 was more like a rabbit being pulled out of a hat. I don't even say that as a bad thing. It's just a different type of magic, one less grandiose and in-your-face.
The setting itself counts as part of this magic. Picture a chocolate shop/tea house filled with hats and witches and references to sorcery. I'd want to hang out there.
Anyone remember the movie You've Got Mail? If not, I'll refresh your memory. The lead female had this adorable, magical little book shop. The lead male moved into town with a big box book store. Their rivalry ended up sparking something more. This is sort of the premise for Chocolate Kiss. Magalie has the charming little shop. Philippe has the notoriety of being one of Paris' most famous pastry chefs. So of course, when Philippe moves in on Magalie's block, there's going to be some tension and rivalry.
"Magalie. Do you want me to be a beast?"
Rivalry (as a rule) can make for some entertaining fights and encounters. This book doesn't disappoint.
I love reading "neighbor from hell" stories. It's much more fun to watch enemies become friends than it is to see people who instantly like each other.
I may not be tripping all over myself the way I was with reviewing the previous book but I still thought this was cute, sweet and had the perfect amount of rivalry tension to make the story delectable.
February 15, 2014
4.5 Stars
It’s no secret by now that I’m in love with Laura Florand’s Amour et Chocolat series. The Chocolate Kiss was another lovely installment full delicious desserts, decadent chocolate, and a passionate romance!
Magalie Chaudron works at her aunt’s magical tea and treats shop, La Maison des Sorcieres, conjuring up chocolat chaud (or hot chocolate) to die for. Magalie loves her life, working for her aunts and living above the shop in her tiny but glorious Parisian apartment. (I want to live there! *sigh*) The aunts provide security and roots she never had growing up. Something that is so deeply important to Magalie after a childhood being yanked back and forth from the US to France by her parents until Magalie was old enough to live on her own. This is until Philippe Lyonnais comes along and threatens all she holds dear. Philippe is a world famous pastry chef coming from a long line of famous pastry chefs, and he decides to set up a new shop right down the street from La Maison des Sorcieres. The nerve!
Philippe is bewitched the moment he sets eyes on Magalie, but instead of being entranced by him, this little sorcerer is all fire and indignation at his decision to set up a new store in her territory. He can’t imagine why she’s so upset, because there should be enough business for the both of them, but Magalie doesn’t see it that way at all.
I just love an antagonistic romance, and Magalie and Philippe’s was perfect! Not too much hatred and pushing to make it frustrating, just enough to make it entertaining, and build up exciting heat and tension! Because, let’s face it, we all want them to cave and give into what’s really going on: a simmering intense attraction! Laura Florand excels in writing scenes full of sensual buildup, and her prose is gorgeous!
He brought his mouth to her exposed throat. Not a gazelle, not a gazelle, she reminded herself as he ripped not her throat but her heart out with a hungry little growl. All her will dissolved under the feel of his mouth, his barest graze of teeth, the touch of his tongue, the burr of his jaw, against her skin.
To be honest, there is more depth to this story than that, especially in regards to Magalie. She has major insecurity issues when it comes to relationships. Every time Magalie was yanked between continents, people moved on without holding a spot in their heart for her. I have to say, I was so angry with her mother’s selfishness! You could easily see why Magalie had a hard time believing someone would care for her long term. It took patience and determination on Philippe’s part, but also willingness from Magalie, to let the past go. I appreciated that when she knew the past was unfairly coloring her view of Philippe, Magalie would do some logical thinking and shake off the doubts. The aunts were also instrumental in her healing, patiently giving Magalie the stability and love she so desperately needed. To me, they were her true parents.
As in all the other books, desserts and chocolate play a huge part in the story. The descriptions are always tantalizing, and sure to make you crave a macaroon, or some chocolat chaud (with a spell whispered and cast by Magalie, of course)! The desserts or chocolate created were like a personal extension of Philippe and Magalie, with consuming equating to accepting, submitting, and taking in the other. Here’s an internal wish/command from Philippe to Magalie about his macaroons:
Taste them. You’ll never recover. Put one into your mouth, and you’ll melt for me every time I look at you.
Very sensual.
The descriptions of Philippe’s macaroons sounded utterly divine with each being a unique masterpiece. I actually went to a patissier while visiting Paris last year and the shop was beautiful (see picture below)! The desserts really do seem like art and the macaroons were like little jewel-toned wonders! I just can’t get enough of this enchanting series!
The audio version was just amazing! Teri Clark Linden exudes charm and flair and her pronunciation of the French phrases were wonderful! The next in the series switches narrators and I don't know why! I listened to a sample and didn't care for the change.
Come visit The Readers Den for a chance to win a Paperback copy or Audio copy of The Chocolate Kiss.
It’s no secret by now that I’m in love with Laura Florand’s Amour et Chocolat series. The Chocolate Kiss was another lovely installment full delicious desserts, decadent chocolate, and a passionate romance!
Magalie Chaudron works at her aunt’s magical tea and treats shop, La Maison des Sorcieres, conjuring up chocolat chaud (or hot chocolate) to die for. Magalie loves her life, working for her aunts and living above the shop in her tiny but glorious Parisian apartment. (I want to live there! *sigh*) The aunts provide security and roots she never had growing up. Something that is so deeply important to Magalie after a childhood being yanked back and forth from the US to France by her parents until Magalie was old enough to live on her own. This is until Philippe Lyonnais comes along and threatens all she holds dear. Philippe is a world famous pastry chef coming from a long line of famous pastry chefs, and he decides to set up a new shop right down the street from La Maison des Sorcieres. The nerve!
Philippe is bewitched the moment he sets eyes on Magalie, but instead of being entranced by him, this little sorcerer is all fire and indignation at his decision to set up a new store in her territory. He can’t imagine why she’s so upset, because there should be enough business for the both of them, but Magalie doesn’t see it that way at all.
I just love an antagonistic romance, and Magalie and Philippe’s was perfect! Not too much hatred and pushing to make it frustrating, just enough to make it entertaining, and build up exciting heat and tension! Because, let’s face it, we all want them to cave and give into what’s really going on: a simmering intense attraction! Laura Florand excels in writing scenes full of sensual buildup, and her prose is gorgeous!
He brought his mouth to her exposed throat. Not a gazelle, not a gazelle, she reminded herself as he ripped not her throat but her heart out with a hungry little growl. All her will dissolved under the feel of his mouth, his barest graze of teeth, the touch of his tongue, the burr of his jaw, against her skin.
To be honest, there is more depth to this story than that, especially in regards to Magalie. She has major insecurity issues when it comes to relationships. Every time Magalie was yanked between continents, people moved on without holding a spot in their heart for her. I have to say, I was so angry with her mother’s selfishness! You could easily see why Magalie had a hard time believing someone would care for her long term. It took patience and determination on Philippe’s part, but also willingness from Magalie, to let the past go. I appreciated that when she knew the past was unfairly coloring her view of Philippe, Magalie would do some logical thinking and shake off the doubts. The aunts were also instrumental in her healing, patiently giving Magalie the stability and love she so desperately needed. To me, they were her true parents.
As in all the other books, desserts and chocolate play a huge part in the story. The descriptions are always tantalizing, and sure to make you crave a macaroon, or some chocolat chaud (with a spell whispered and cast by Magalie, of course)! The desserts or chocolate created were like a personal extension of Philippe and Magalie, with consuming equating to accepting, submitting, and taking in the other. Here’s an internal wish/command from Philippe to Magalie about his macaroons:
Taste them. You’ll never recover. Put one into your mouth, and you’ll melt for me every time I look at you.
Very sensual.
The descriptions of Philippe’s macaroons sounded utterly divine with each being a unique masterpiece. I actually went to a patissier while visiting Paris last year and the shop was beautiful (see picture below)! The desserts really do seem like art and the macaroons were like little jewel-toned wonders! I just can’t get enough of this enchanting series!
The audio version was just amazing! Teri Clark Linden exudes charm and flair and her pronunciation of the French phrases were wonderful! The next in the series switches narrators and I don't know why! I listened to a sample and didn't care for the change.
Come visit The Readers Den for a chance to win a Paperback copy or Audio copy of The Chocolate Kiss.
April 28, 2013
I sat up till 1 AM with The Chocolate Kiss, waiting for the moment when the magic of The Chocolate Thief would be re-captured, but to no avail. I fell asleep with my lights on, dreaming of witches and chocolates and pastries and Sylvain Marquis...not Philippe Lyonnais. Needless to say, that would make him rather upset, I imagine, but he had tough competition. As a companion novel to The Chocolate Thief, this installment of cute chick-lit romance is adorable and charming, but it failed to make me swoon and sigh the way its predecessor did. And yet, these few hours spent delightfully in Paris, in the safe alcove of Île Saint-Louis is worth it.
The Chocolate Kiss reminds me a little bit of my favorite movie "You've Got Mail" - only not quite as good. Magalie and her two aunts are the owners of La Maison des Sorcieres, a chocolate store known for its vivid decorations, warm atmosphere, and magic hot chocolate that can grant wishes and change people. When Philippe Lyonnais, undoubtedly the best pastry chef in Paris, decides to move in close-by, Magalie refuses to stand for it. While her encounter with Philippe fails to get him to move elsewhere, it does make him insta-charmed by her and begins a feud between the two, with Philippe enticing Magalie to try his pastries and vice versa. And yet, Magalie's seemingly childish insistence to stay away from Philippe when he so obviously is smitten by her hides a darker truth of her past - one that only the most faithful chocolate kiss can help heal.
Like its predecessor, The Chocolate Kiss starts out promising enough, introducing us to Magalie and Philippe, both strong and independent characters in their own right. Although their initial feud begins when Philippe takes great offense that Magalie could possibly refuse one of his famous pastries, it soon develops into a war neither of them want to be the first to succumb to. And yet, as their sexual tension builds, they so badly do. Increasingly entertaining though it may have been, this "war" between Magalie and Philippe is carried on for too long until eventually, the reader is simply yelling at these two to give in already because how many times has this same scene of offer-and-refusal occurred? Once this aspect of the novel is finally complete, though, well over half-way through the book, the story takes on a much more serious note, exploring Magalie's insecurities and past troubles. It was this part of the story that captured me - the gentle and caring way that Philippe convinced Magalie that he was there to stay, the understanding gestures that signified he loved her despite her flaws, and especially the depth given to Magalie and Philippe's romance. While The Chocolate Thief dealt more with an issue of Cade and what she wanted from life, lending to a slightly lighter dilemma, this novel goes on a darker path, but finishes out just as strong.
And yet, The Chocolate Kiss was missing a few vital ingredients. For one, the dialogue at times could be rather head-ache-inducing. Although all the talk of princesses in towers and beasts and princes and witches and paupers was charming, it grated on me after awhile and, frankly, I didn't need those metaphors beat over my head paragraph-after-paragraph. Additionally, Philippe is a much more dominating male figure than Sylvain is, which may please some readers but it made me wince and squirm - not in a good way. With The Chocolate Thief, Florand was able to create an important balance, showing us how flummoxed Sylvain could be when an idea backfired on him, making him come across as a jerk when really he had well-meaning intentions. In this manner, through his eyes, we fell in love with him and actively wanted him for Cade. The Chocolate Kiss doesn't give us nearly as many moments into Philippe's head - and it should. From Magalie's perspective, he comes across as a complete arrogant jerk at times, which makes it difficult to like him. Even though we do eventually learn that his actions were well-meant, they were too dominating for me to fall for him in the swoon-worthy manner chick-lit novels like this one promise. Nevertheless, The Chocolate Kiss was worth the stress-free hours I spent with it, despite my growling stomach by the end.
The Chocolate Kiss reminds me a little bit of my favorite movie "You've Got Mail" - only not quite as good. Magalie and her two aunts are the owners of La Maison des Sorcieres, a chocolate store known for its vivid decorations, warm atmosphere, and magic hot chocolate that can grant wishes and change people. When Philippe Lyonnais, undoubtedly the best pastry chef in Paris, decides to move in close-by, Magalie refuses to stand for it. While her encounter with Philippe fails to get him to move elsewhere, it does make him insta-charmed by her and begins a feud between the two, with Philippe enticing Magalie to try his pastries and vice versa. And yet, Magalie's seemingly childish insistence to stay away from Philippe when he so obviously is smitten by her hides a darker truth of her past - one that only the most faithful chocolate kiss can help heal.
Like its predecessor, The Chocolate Kiss starts out promising enough, introducing us to Magalie and Philippe, both strong and independent characters in their own right. Although their initial feud begins when Philippe takes great offense that Magalie could possibly refuse one of his famous pastries, it soon develops into a war neither of them want to be the first to succumb to. And yet, as their sexual tension builds, they so badly do. Increasingly entertaining though it may have been, this "war" between Magalie and Philippe is carried on for too long until eventually, the reader is simply yelling at these two to give in already because how many times has this same scene of offer-and-refusal occurred? Once this aspect of the novel is finally complete, though, well over half-way through the book, the story takes on a much more serious note, exploring Magalie's insecurities and past troubles. It was this part of the story that captured me - the gentle and caring way that Philippe convinced Magalie that he was there to stay, the understanding gestures that signified he loved her despite her flaws, and especially the depth given to Magalie and Philippe's romance. While The Chocolate Thief dealt more with an issue of Cade and what she wanted from life, lending to a slightly lighter dilemma, this novel goes on a darker path, but finishes out just as strong.
And yet, The Chocolate Kiss was missing a few vital ingredients. For one, the dialogue at times could be rather head-ache-inducing. Although all the talk of princesses in towers and beasts and princes and witches and paupers was charming, it grated on me after awhile and, frankly, I didn't need those metaphors beat over my head paragraph-after-paragraph. Additionally, Philippe is a much more dominating male figure than Sylvain is, which may please some readers but it made me wince and squirm - not in a good way. With The Chocolate Thief, Florand was able to create an important balance, showing us how flummoxed Sylvain could be when an idea backfired on him, making him come across as a jerk when really he had well-meaning intentions. In this manner, through his eyes, we fell in love with him and actively wanted him for Cade. The Chocolate Kiss doesn't give us nearly as many moments into Philippe's head - and it should. From Magalie's perspective, he comes across as a complete arrogant jerk at times, which makes it difficult to like him. Even though we do eventually learn that his actions were well-meant, they were too dominating for me to fall for him in the swoon-worthy manner chick-lit novels like this one promise. Nevertheless, The Chocolate Kiss was worth the stress-free hours I spent with it, despite my growling stomach by the end.
July 21, 2019
Uh, let's see if I remember what happened in this book since it has been 5 days since I last listened to this audio? lmaoo.
The Chocolate Kiss was okay. Nothing really happened for me but that's probably because I was listening to this book on one of my shittier days. Ugh, work is the worst sometimes. In this, you will meet Philippe and Magalie and they were kind of cute. They had some obvious chemistry and they are in the city of love (wait.. that is paris right?) looking for well.. love. I kind of enjoyed their journey towards a happy ending but honestly, I don't remember much.
The one thing I do remember is how hungry I was while listening to this. Heck, any book that describes delicious food to me makes me hungry. However, just like the first book this one did have some scenes that I didn't really like. No, there was no stealing chocolate recipes but the whole being in her apartment was just a side of weird to my ears. I feel like I have a fear of someone doing that to my own condo.. and it freaks me out.
Overall, I'm surprised with how many books this series has.. and I have no intention to dive into anymore at this time. Maybe later.. but no idea.
The Chocolate Kiss was okay. Nothing really happened for me but that's probably because I was listening to this book on one of my shittier days. Ugh, work is the worst sometimes. In this, you will meet Philippe and Magalie and they were kind of cute. They had some obvious chemistry and they are in the city of love (wait.. that is paris right?) looking for well.. love. I kind of enjoyed their journey towards a happy ending but honestly, I don't remember much.
The one thing I do remember is how hungry I was while listening to this. Heck, any book that describes delicious food to me makes me hungry. However, just like the first book this one did have some scenes that I didn't really like. No, there was no stealing chocolate recipes but the whole being in her apartment was just a side of weird to my ears. I feel like I have a fear of someone doing that to my own condo.. and it freaks me out.
Overall, I'm surprised with how many books this series has.. and I have no intention to dive into anymore at this time. Maybe later.. but no idea.
June 14, 2013
I was a little nervous starting this. Florand had two five star books in a row, for me -- could she possibly pull off a hat trick? Yes. Yes she could.
Magalie, the daughter of a trans-continental marriage, spent her youth being shuttled between France and America. As an adult, she made the most secure, permanent home possible for herself in the whimsical, witch themed chocolate shop of her aunts, cooking chocolat chaud that she infuses with appropriate wishes for its drinkers. (One of these fortunate drinkers was Cade Corey, heroine of The Chocolate Thief, and it worked out very well for her.) When world famous patissier Phillipe Lyonnais decides to open a new shop on her street, Magalie feels threatened enough to move out of her comfort zone and beard the lion in his den. Phillipe tries to soothe her with one of his exquisite handmade creations, she defiantly refuses... and the battle is on.
The Chocolate Kiss is very like Florand's previous amour et chocolat books in many ways, but has a few key differences. In this story, both characters put their heart and soul into their delicious sweets, and their increasingly desperate efforts to make the other have a taste makes for one of the most delicious wars in the history of romance. Phillipe continually outdoes himself in dreaming up symbolically meaningful pastry to woo Magalie. The defiant Magalie tries to infuse humility for him into her chocolate, yet keep unconsciously stirring her own unadmitted longing for Phillipe into it, causing him to be constantly pursued by random chocolate drinkers.
The story also differs from the previous books in being unexpectedly sad, at least for me. Magalie is so wounded underneath the desperate armor of her Parisian chic, I couldn't help crying for her. For awhile I was even aghast about Phillipe's seeming indifference to how much his shop threatened Magalie, because I identified so strongly with her that despite her aunts' unconcern, I didn't realize it was never a genuine threat.
Florand makes art and magic with words as she describes how Phillipe and Magalie make art and magic with food. Every word had meaning; I had to keep slowing down and going back, to savor phrases that had rushed by too fast to be appreciated. She fills her books with rich metaphor -- like all of her food magicians, Phillipe is his creations, but he is also a lion, and a prince, and he's wary that a witch might turn him into a beast (or a frog.) Magalie is a witch trying to stifle her longing to be a princess, but she's also Rapunzel trapped in her tower, and a dessert that melts into goo from Phillipe's attention. It sounds overly complicated and mishmash, but it all swirls together into a perfect mix of flavors.
This phrase struck me as being representative of Florand's unique style:
"His laughter expanded into the whole room, his energy embracing everyone and everything in it. And that bell in her shop rang again, pure and clear, piercing her through the heart -- which hurt like hell -- and holding her there, impaled for somebody else's pleasure."
I love how her characters embrace metaphor so thoroughly, they make it almost literal. They also invariably think along the same lines -- while Magalie tries to make sure no chocolate skulls are left off the fence that guards her Baba Yaga display, Phillipe immediately notices the one that's fallen, which means the fence can no longer keep a prince out. This completely works with the gentle magic realism that's especially strong in this story.
I read this with gusto, making gleeful noises and awwws and sobs as I went. I adored Phillipe, so large and competent and sure of himself, yet so vulnerable as he falls hopelessly in love with a walled-off princess who thinks she can't have a prince. (I was amused when I looked up "Magalie" and discovered it means "pearl" -- the guarded treasure, she could not be more aptly named.) He truly needs the patience of someone who takes the utmost, delicate care with his work. And I cheered as Magalie starts letting her armor drop enough to enjoy a run -- impossible in the high heels she unusually insists on -- and even begins to believe in the power of her own magic. It's yet another 5 stars -- or maybe that should be 3 Michelin stars.
Magalie, the daughter of a trans-continental marriage, spent her youth being shuttled between France and America. As an adult, she made the most secure, permanent home possible for herself in the whimsical, witch themed chocolate shop of her aunts, cooking chocolat chaud that she infuses with appropriate wishes for its drinkers. (One of these fortunate drinkers was Cade Corey, heroine of The Chocolate Thief, and it worked out very well for her.) When world famous patissier Phillipe Lyonnais decides to open a new shop on her street, Magalie feels threatened enough to move out of her comfort zone and beard the lion in his den. Phillipe tries to soothe her with one of his exquisite handmade creations, she defiantly refuses... and the battle is on.
The Chocolate Kiss is very like Florand's previous amour et chocolat books in many ways, but has a few key differences. In this story, both characters put their heart and soul into their delicious sweets, and their increasingly desperate efforts to make the other have a taste makes for one of the most delicious wars in the history of romance. Phillipe continually outdoes himself in dreaming up symbolically meaningful pastry to woo Magalie. The defiant Magalie tries to infuse humility for him into her chocolate, yet keep unconsciously stirring her own unadmitted longing for Phillipe into it, causing him to be constantly pursued by random chocolate drinkers.
The story also differs from the previous books in being unexpectedly sad, at least for me. Magalie is so wounded underneath the desperate armor of her Parisian chic, I couldn't help crying for her. For awhile I was even aghast about Phillipe's seeming indifference to how much his shop threatened Magalie, because I identified so strongly with her that despite her aunts' unconcern, I didn't realize it was never a genuine threat.
Florand makes art and magic with words as she describes how Phillipe and Magalie make art and magic with food. Every word had meaning; I had to keep slowing down and going back, to savor phrases that had rushed by too fast to be appreciated. She fills her books with rich metaphor -- like all of her food magicians, Phillipe is his creations, but he is also a lion, and a prince, and he's wary that a witch might turn him into a beast (or a frog.) Magalie is a witch trying to stifle her longing to be a princess, but she's also Rapunzel trapped in her tower, and a dessert that melts into goo from Phillipe's attention. It sounds overly complicated and mishmash, but it all swirls together into a perfect mix of flavors.
This phrase struck me as being representative of Florand's unique style:
"His laughter expanded into the whole room, his energy embracing everyone and everything in it. And that bell in her shop rang again, pure and clear, piercing her through the heart -- which hurt like hell -- and holding her there, impaled for somebody else's pleasure."
I love how her characters embrace metaphor so thoroughly, they make it almost literal. They also invariably think along the same lines -- while Magalie tries to make sure no chocolate skulls are left off the fence that guards her Baba Yaga display, Phillipe immediately notices the one that's fallen, which means the fence can no longer keep a prince out. This completely works with the gentle magic realism that's especially strong in this story.
I read this with gusto, making gleeful noises and awwws and sobs as I went. I adored Phillipe, so large and competent and sure of himself, yet so vulnerable as he falls hopelessly in love with a walled-off princess who thinks she can't have a prince. (I was amused when I looked up "Magalie" and discovered it means "pearl" -- the guarded treasure, she could not be more aptly named.) He truly needs the patience of someone who takes the utmost, delicate care with his work. And I cheered as Magalie starts letting her armor drop enough to enjoy a run -- impossible in the high heels she unusually insists on -- and even begins to believe in the power of her own magic. It's yet another 5 stars -- or maybe that should be 3 Michelin stars.
December 29, 2012
Adorable, charming, whimsical. These are the words that first came to mind when I finished this book. I read it in one sitting and was completely immersed in the world. I felt like I was in Paris, in a tiny chocolate shop. That I could almost smell the hot chocolate and see the adorable chocolate window displays the author so meticulously and wonderfully details in this book. And the let’s not forget the sexy romance that develops between Philippe Lyonnais, world famous pastry chef and Magalie Chaudron, who along with her two aunts own La Maison des Sorcieres.
Magalie and her aunts (and her aunts are wonderful supporting characters in this book) are fondly known as the witches, as they like to put spells on the customers who drink their chocolate and tea. Magalie has spent her youth traveling numerous times from America to France with her parents, and has finally found a home above her beloved shop. She never wants to move again, so when the famous pastry chef Philippe Lyonnais announces he is opening one of his stores just a few doors down from hers, she is devastated he will steal all her customers, forcing her out of business. When she sees just how grand his shop is, she feels at a loss.
She didn’t feel like Magalie Chaudron, a witch of the Ile Saint-Louis, who held the magic of chocolate brews in her hands. She felt like Cinderella at the ball, conscious that her fine dress was really ash-covered rags and intense make-believe, and wanting nothing so much as to slink out before the prince saw her.
She hated that feeling.
Phillippe fell in love with Magalie’s quaint street and her quaint little store. He doesn’t want to drive her out of business but he doesn’t lack confidence or pride in his work and shop. He knows he is the best and he expects to do very well at his new location. After these two meet, a war of sorts develops. He is famous for his macarons, and sends one to her as a peace offering. She refuses to eat it, which he absolutely cannot comprehend.
He couldn’t believe she had rejected one of his macarons. He had offered it to her fresh from his own hand. Not just his recipe, but made personally by him. And she had refused it.
His Desir. Apricot kissed by pistachio, with the secret little square of of pistachio praline hidden inside, like a G-spot. Well, he didn’t call it le point Gin his marketing brochures, but whenever he created, he knew what he was doing: every pastry had to have its orgasm, its culmination of bliss that hit like a complete surprise. That made the eyes of those who bit into it shiver closed with delight.
Throughout the book, he pushes all of his anger, lust, and desire into his macarons as Magalie does the same with her chocolate. She stirs in a “spell” into his hot chocolate and in retaliation he refuses to drink it. They go back and forth as each other’s nemesis until their anger finally evolves into a very sexy romance.
I can’t say enough good things about this book. The author brings to life this world. The charming displays the aunts and Magalie make for their windows make me almost lust to see it in real life. The chocolate and pastry creations will make you want to get on a plane and fly to Paris so you can taste them. She develops this really rich world and then gives us two adorable characters who fall in love. They butt heads, they have very cute yet enemy-filled banter, and they eventually give into their desires. I really like that this book has that very adorable, charming feel yet once these two start their romance, it becomes very, very wicked.
”Philippe….” She put all the menace a naked, involuntary clutching and writhing woman could into the word."
“Allez, Magalie.” His chin was rough against her neck. “Say it,” he breathed. “I’m begging you to say it. It excites the hell out of me when you say it.”
He was begging her to beg him.
One of my complaints about her first book was that she gave us a very sexy chocolatier but we never fully saw all his sexiness. But here she lets Magalie and Philippe slowly explore their romance. She doesn’t rush through the very hot sex scenes, which of course I was happy about.
There is not really magic in this book, at least that is how I understood it. I think if you want to believe Magalie and her aunts bewitch their chocolate, then that would be okay too. I think the act of putting wishes into their creation adds to the whimsical feel of this book.
An adorable chocolate shop and heroine, a sexy pastry chef and a hot romance set in Paris. I highly recommend this one.
Rating: A
Magalie and her aunts (and her aunts are wonderful supporting characters in this book) are fondly known as the witches, as they like to put spells on the customers who drink their chocolate and tea. Magalie has spent her youth traveling numerous times from America to France with her parents, and has finally found a home above her beloved shop. She never wants to move again, so when the famous pastry chef Philippe Lyonnais announces he is opening one of his stores just a few doors down from hers, she is devastated he will steal all her customers, forcing her out of business. When she sees just how grand his shop is, she feels at a loss.
She didn’t feel like Magalie Chaudron, a witch of the Ile Saint-Louis, who held the magic of chocolate brews in her hands. She felt like Cinderella at the ball, conscious that her fine dress was really ash-covered rags and intense make-believe, and wanting nothing so much as to slink out before the prince saw her.
She hated that feeling.
Phillippe fell in love with Magalie’s quaint street and her quaint little store. He doesn’t want to drive her out of business but he doesn’t lack confidence or pride in his work and shop. He knows he is the best and he expects to do very well at his new location. After these two meet, a war of sorts develops. He is famous for his macarons, and sends one to her as a peace offering. She refuses to eat it, which he absolutely cannot comprehend.
He couldn’t believe she had rejected one of his macarons. He had offered it to her fresh from his own hand. Not just his recipe, but made personally by him. And she had refused it.
His Desir. Apricot kissed by pistachio, with the secret little square of of pistachio praline hidden inside, like a G-spot. Well, he didn’t call it le point Gin his marketing brochures, but whenever he created, he knew what he was doing: every pastry had to have its orgasm, its culmination of bliss that hit like a complete surprise. That made the eyes of those who bit into it shiver closed with delight.
Throughout the book, he pushes all of his anger, lust, and desire into his macarons as Magalie does the same with her chocolate. She stirs in a “spell” into his hot chocolate and in retaliation he refuses to drink it. They go back and forth as each other’s nemesis until their anger finally evolves into a very sexy romance.
I can’t say enough good things about this book. The author brings to life this world. The charming displays the aunts and Magalie make for their windows make me almost lust to see it in real life. The chocolate and pastry creations will make you want to get on a plane and fly to Paris so you can taste them. She develops this really rich world and then gives us two adorable characters who fall in love. They butt heads, they have very cute yet enemy-filled banter, and they eventually give into their desires. I really like that this book has that very adorable, charming feel yet once these two start their romance, it becomes very, very wicked.
”Philippe….” She put all the menace a naked, involuntary clutching and writhing woman could into the word."
“Allez, Magalie.” His chin was rough against her neck. “Say it,” he breathed. “I’m begging you to say it. It excites the hell out of me when you say it.”
He was begging her to beg him.
One of my complaints about her first book was that she gave us a very sexy chocolatier but we never fully saw all his sexiness. But here she lets Magalie and Philippe slowly explore their romance. She doesn’t rush through the very hot sex scenes, which of course I was happy about.
There is not really magic in this book, at least that is how I understood it. I think if you want to believe Magalie and her aunts bewitch their chocolate, then that would be okay too. I think the act of putting wishes into their creation adds to the whimsical feel of this book.
An adorable chocolate shop and heroine, a sexy pastry chef and a hot romance set in Paris. I highly recommend this one.
Rating: A
March 10, 2016
3.5 Stars
Have it ever happened to you guys, start reading a book, immediately having issues with it, consider DNF it... and in the end finding yourself in love with it?
-_-
Well, that's what happened with me.
I found the beginning more than awkward _
However, and this is were things started becoming hazy, Magalie actions end up having a reason to exist. Who Knew??
For someone who just recently found a semblance of home, Magalie is determined to hold her own against Philipe Lyonnais, a world renowned chocolatier who decided that "Magalie's street", was just the street for his store... suffice to say that Magalie and her aunts are less than pleased with the situation.
Although for completely different reasons... *cough*
What happens next is a battle of sugar (Macaroons versus hot chocolate) between Philipe and Magalie amid numerous metaphors of princes/ princesses/ witches/ peasants and other fairy tale elements. With two stubborn main characters, the battle is definitely on to see which of them resists longer to sweet temptations.
With a touch of magical realism, Philipe and Magalie's receipts gain a life of their own (fans of the book "Garden Spells" will be right at home with it), influencing all of those who eat or drink their concoctions.
One of the funnier parts in the book is Philipe's fear that Magalie's "hot chaude" will turn him into a frog. LOL
Magalie's aunts were also priceless with their advices and their utter admiration that their niece would actually want something to do with a man.
The Chocolate Kiss has a bit of a Rapunzel retelling to it, but in a more realistic way, this story deals with its effects. So accordingly, one might say that this Rapunzel suffers a bit of social anxiety.
Behind her polished exterior, Magalie hides her heart way up in her tower and hopes for things that will never change..
As for the so-called Prince, he suffers from a severe case of sticking his nose where it doesn't belong _just because the door to the tower is open, that doesn't give him the right to walk all over the place!_ luckily for him, his heart was in the right place.
In the end, this was another charming novel by the author, who once again makes me want to pack my bags and get lost in France.
Well not lost. I hate getting lost...a map would be good...
Or a GPS. -_-
Also my French is really rusty...
October 12, 2019
reread 12/10/19: the magic of this story, this romance and the two characters is still enchanting me. whenever i read this, it feels like complete pure happiness, it makes me smile from the inside out, it gives me comfort like only your favorite book can give...
reread 28/11/16: i will never grow tired of this book. i still laugh out loud at the funny scene, i still feel for Magalie when she struggles to open herself, i still dream and find my way back to l'Ile Saint-Louis, i still swoon over Philippe The lion, etc etc.
Truly my favorite read of the year.
reread 28/11/16: i will never grow tired of this book. i still laugh out loud at the funny scene, i still feel for Magalie when she struggles to open herself, i still dream and find my way back to l'Ile Saint-Louis, i still swoon over Philippe The lion, etc etc.
Truly my favorite read of the year.
July 31, 2014
July 2014 reread: Amour et Florand made me want to reread The Chocolate Kiss (recently reread The Chocolate Thief too) and it's just as good as I remembered. I love the seduction using desserts and hot chocolate.
________________________
April 2013 review:
Originally posted here.
The Chocolate Kiss is the second book in Laura Florand's Amour Et Chocolat series. Featuring top chocolatiers in Paris, these books focus on hot guys who make delectable desserts. What's not to like? I loved The Chocolate Thief, the first book in the series, so I dove right into this one after finishing that. The books don't have to be read in order, they're standalone stories since they're about different couples although Cade and Sylvain (the leads in The Chocolate Thief) have cameos in this one. I would like to note that one of my favorite restaurants when I was in college was The Chocolate Kiss Cafe. If I was in Manila, I would have visited the place after reading this book.
In case I haven't mentioned it often enough here on the blog, let me say this again: I love macarons. And the male lead in The Chocolate Kiss makes amazing, world-renowned macarons. Sigh, if only I could grab a bite straight out of the book's pages. Philippe's artistic creations seemed not only beautiful but deliciously mouth-watering as well. Same with Magalie's rich hot chocolate, with wishes stirred in specifically for the person the drink is meant for. Magalie seems to know exactly what a person needs, be it courage to seize the day or strength of spirit to handle life's burdens. With that idea as well as the name of their tea room, La Maison des Sorcieres (The Witches' House), the whole novel has a whimsical touch to it that makes it feel more like magic realism instead of contemporary romance. It reminded me of one of my favorite books, Sarah Addison Allen's Garden Spells. Magalie was a character that I could easily relate to. She loves her little corner of Paris but has a hard time adjusting how the rest of the city makes her feel. So she arms herself with stylish outfits that make her feel stronger about facing the world outside their tea room. Here's a passage that particularly resonated with me, I hope it's not too spoilery to share it:
Yes, it's really important to have a good book. The Chocolate Kiss can definitely be classified as one of those good books. I wouldn't have minded giving up a night out with friends to stay in and read this novel. In fact, I did stay up later than usual to finish reading this, even though I had to get up early for work the next day. I thought the romance between Magalie and Philippe was done very well, there was obvious attraction between them that they kept denying so the tension just built up. I thought it was funny how they kept tempting each other with their specialties - Philippe with his macarons and Magalie with her hot chocolate - and how they both refuse to try and sample each other's work even though everyone else is raving about them. It's a symbol of how they can't let the other person gain the upper hand by admitting that they even want a taste. And when they finally give in? Well, you just have to read the book and find out. Similar to The Chocolate Thief, I really enjoyed reading about the secondary characters in this story. I like how the romance isn't just about the two leads but also about the people important in their lives as well as the work that they're passionate about. Another excellent installment in Laura Florand's romantic chocolate series. I think it's pretty much a given that I'm excited to read The Chocolate Touch. Counting down the weeks until it becomes available.
________________________
April 2013 review:
Originally posted here.
The Chocolate Kiss is the second book in Laura Florand's Amour Et Chocolat series. Featuring top chocolatiers in Paris, these books focus on hot guys who make delectable desserts. What's not to like? I loved The Chocolate Thief, the first book in the series, so I dove right into this one after finishing that. The books don't have to be read in order, they're standalone stories since they're about different couples although Cade and Sylvain (the leads in The Chocolate Thief) have cameos in this one. I would like to note that one of my favorite restaurants when I was in college was The Chocolate Kiss Cafe. If I was in Manila, I would have visited the place after reading this book.
In case I haven't mentioned it often enough here on the blog, let me say this again: I love macarons. And the male lead in The Chocolate Kiss makes amazing, world-renowned macarons. Sigh, if only I could grab a bite straight out of the book's pages. Philippe's artistic creations seemed not only beautiful but deliciously mouth-watering as well. Same with Magalie's rich hot chocolate, with wishes stirred in specifically for the person the drink is meant for. Magalie seems to know exactly what a person needs, be it courage to seize the day or strength of spirit to handle life's burdens. With that idea as well as the name of their tea room, La Maison des Sorcieres (The Witches' House), the whole novel has a whimsical touch to it that makes it feel more like magic realism instead of contemporary romance. It reminded me of one of my favorite books, Sarah Addison Allen's Garden Spells. Magalie was a character that I could easily relate to. She loves her little corner of Paris but has a hard time adjusting how the rest of the city makes her feel. So she arms herself with stylish outfits that make her feel stronger about facing the world outside their tea room. Here's a passage that particularly resonated with me, I hope it's not too spoilery to share it:
You couldn't cure loneliness by wallowing in it, up above the world, on an island far removed from everything. She knew that. But she had such a hard time with all the cures. They seemed rough and brusque and brutal, as if they abused her skin with a pot scrubber, things like trying to go out with men she barely knew, or dancing in Paris nightclubs, or hanging out with friends in bars over in that world past the banks of the river.
She had been something of a party creature in her high schools, still was one to dance all night at New Year's celebrations or weddings when she went back to Provence, but there was something harsher about dancing here, forcing herself into a mass of people, stranger among strangers. Occasionally, one of her friends from the university, the longest continuous friendship she had ever had, could talk her into it. But it was much more tempting to curl up with a book under her thick white comforter.
Still, sometimes after she curled up, she regretted her lack of courage and felt bleakly lonely.
It was important to have a really good book.
Yes, it's really important to have a good book. The Chocolate Kiss can definitely be classified as one of those good books. I wouldn't have minded giving up a night out with friends to stay in and read this novel. In fact, I did stay up later than usual to finish reading this, even though I had to get up early for work the next day. I thought the romance between Magalie and Philippe was done very well, there was obvious attraction between them that they kept denying so the tension just built up. I thought it was funny how they kept tempting each other with their specialties - Philippe with his macarons and Magalie with her hot chocolate - and how they both refuse to try and sample each other's work even though everyone else is raving about them. It's a symbol of how they can't let the other person gain the upper hand by admitting that they even want a taste. And when they finally give in? Well, you just have to read the book and find out. Similar to The Chocolate Thief, I really enjoyed reading about the secondary characters in this story. I like how the romance isn't just about the two leads but also about the people important in their lives as well as the work that they're passionate about. Another excellent installment in Laura Florand's romantic chocolate series. I think it's pretty much a given that I'm excited to read The Chocolate Touch. Counting down the weeks until it becomes available.
May 2, 2018
First read: Sept 2015
What is it about Laura Florand's books that never fails to make me all warm and gushy gooey inside?
Reread: July 2016
Yep. Still very much in love with Philippe the Lion Prince Lyonnais. and goddamn all the hot chocolate makes me want to have some too.
Reread: May 2017
Upping this to 5 stars because lbr, I love this too much. I mean Dom and Jaime is still my #1 otp but Philippe and Magalie are just so perfect together.
Reread: May 2018
I miss Paris and the beautiful day when Marie took me on a mini Florand tour and we visited the Henri IV statue and sighed-
What is it about Laura Florand's books that never fails to make me all warm and gushy gooey inside?
Reread: July 2016
Yep. Still very much in love with Philippe the Lion Prince Lyonnais. and goddamn all the hot chocolate makes me want to have some too.
Reread: May 2017
Upping this to 5 stars because lbr, I love this too much. I mean Dom and Jaime is still my #1 otp but Philippe and Magalie are just so perfect together.
Reread: May 2018
I miss Paris and the beautiful day when Marie took me on a mini Florand tour and we visited the Henri IV statue and sighed-
May 10, 2015
This one was slightly better than Chocolate Thief, though frustration is, once again, the prevalent emotion throughout this novel.
Slightly fantastical, The Chocolate Kiss tells the story of Magalie and Phillipe Lyonnaise. Magalie finally found the stability her parents couldn’t give her; and in an island in the middle of Paris, her aunts and their seemingly enchanted tea shop is the place she can finally call home. Everything is threatened when Phillipe Lyonnaise moves in the neighbourhood, however.
Phillipe Lyonnaise owns a world-renowned pâtisserie. As soon as he sees La Maison des Sorcieres, he knows it’s the right neighbourhood to open up another shop. Unfortunately, the three women that own and run the mystical tea shop were not so receptive to him moving into their territory. But he’s determined to change their minds. With just a taste of his macarons, he knows they’ll be eating out of his hand. He just didn’t anticipate how stubborn the three women are. Especially Magalie Chaudron.
This book is about contest of wills and battle for supremacy. The women knew their long-standing salon de the is threatened with Lyonnaise moving into their turf. Above all, it’s Magalie’s journey to find her self-worth; to realize she could be the home for someone looking for stability themselves.
I mentioned frustration, and it was palpable with every single interaction between Magalie and Phillipe. The relationship was contemptuous, and to be honest, not really in a fun way.
For practically the majority of the novel, these two tried their darnest not to partake in each one’s creations. Because they fear that they’ll lose part of themselves. I suppose it’s the euphemism that perfectly describes the dynamics of their relationship. They’re both reluctant to give in and impart pieces of themselves they’re not willing to give.
I listened to the audiobook and also downloaded the e-book. I had to stop listening after a while because the narration wasn’t working out for me. At this point, I think I’m going to just read them on my Kindle instead of downloading the audio. It was tough listening to the English dialogues spoken with French accents. I had a hard time understanding it. Though this is just probably me. I know Rachel (The Readers’ Den) loved the accent.
For now, I think I’m moving forward with this series. I’m starting to appreciate Florand’s knowledge of pastries, chocolates, and Paris. She makes me want to savour everything France has to offer.
Slightly fantastical, The Chocolate Kiss tells the story of Magalie and Phillipe Lyonnaise. Magalie finally found the stability her parents couldn’t give her; and in an island in the middle of Paris, her aunts and their seemingly enchanted tea shop is the place she can finally call home. Everything is threatened when Phillipe Lyonnaise moves in the neighbourhood, however.
Phillipe Lyonnaise owns a world-renowned pâtisserie. As soon as he sees La Maison des Sorcieres, he knows it’s the right neighbourhood to open up another shop. Unfortunately, the three women that own and run the mystical tea shop were not so receptive to him moving into their territory. But he’s determined to change their minds. With just a taste of his macarons, he knows they’ll be eating out of his hand. He just didn’t anticipate how stubborn the three women are. Especially Magalie Chaudron.
This book is about contest of wills and battle for supremacy. The women knew their long-standing salon de the is threatened with Lyonnaise moving into their turf. Above all, it’s Magalie’s journey to find her self-worth; to realize she could be the home for someone looking for stability themselves.
I mentioned frustration, and it was palpable with every single interaction between Magalie and Phillipe. The relationship was contemptuous, and to be honest, not really in a fun way.
For practically the majority of the novel, these two tried their darnest not to partake in each one’s creations. Because they fear that they’ll lose part of themselves. I suppose it’s the euphemism that perfectly describes the dynamics of their relationship. They’re both reluctant to give in and impart pieces of themselves they’re not willing to give.
I listened to the audiobook and also downloaded the e-book. I had to stop listening after a while because the narration wasn’t working out for me. At this point, I think I’m going to just read them on my Kindle instead of downloading the audio. It was tough listening to the English dialogues spoken with French accents. I had a hard time understanding it. Though this is just probably me. I know Rachel (The Readers’ Den) loved the accent.
For now, I think I’m moving forward with this series. I’m starting to appreciate Florand’s knowledge of pastries, chocolates, and Paris. She makes me want to savour everything France has to offer.
January 7, 2020
Originally reviewed here @ Angieville
These darling covers continue to delight me. I am such a sucker for a good silhouette, and the multicolored macarons on this one really do lend it just the right whimsical air. I could hardly wait for my copy of THE CHOCOLATE KISS to arrive once I'd finished The Chocolate Thief. It was just such a delightful surprise of a read, made that much sweeter by the knowledge that there were two more books in the series already out there just waiting for me. As feelings I get to experience in my life go, that is one of the ones I savor the most. This series does not follow the same characters, but branches out into side characters. We get glimpses of the previous ones, though, and of course the irresistible Paris setting remains. I had heard somewhat mixed opinions on this second volume. Some were not that enamored of the slight elements of magical realism, others found themselves absolutely charmed. I find when it comes to magical realism, readers really can go either way. For the most part, I tend to really enjoy it. As long as the author has an even, light hand and is careful to shore the fantastical elements up with a solid sense of place and realistic motivations and histories for her characters.
Magalie Chaudron has never belonged anywhere. Wrenched back and forth by her terminally transient parents, she grew up here and there, traveling back and forth from the lavender fields of Provence to the hills up upstate New York at the whim of a mother and father who both could not leave their homes and could not be long without the other. They prided themselves on their supremely adaptable, eminently self-reliant young daughter who could not only put up with the impermanence of their family but also brought joy to their lives. But when she came of age, Magalie took matters into her own hands. Moving to Paris, she made it through university and gratefully accepted the offer of her two maiden aunts to come and live above their salon de thé on the Île Saint-Louis in the middle of the Seine and work in their shop making her delicious chocolat chaud. And suddenly, in her little one-room apartment above La Maison des Sorcieres, Magalie finds home. And if she sends a few wishes for the people who drink her chocolate as she stirs and stirs the pot in her blue-tiled kitchen, well, who is she to say if they actually come true? And everything is stable. And there is no reason to believe she will be wrenched once more from this self-made home that fits her like a glove. Until Lyonnais arrives. Philippe Lyonnais, to be precise. With his world-famous pastries and his elegant shop, he invades her private island without a second thought for the struggling salon de thé down the street. Unwilling to give up her safety or her livelihood, Magalie confronts the lion in his own den, only to be rebuffed and brushed aside like the tiny speck of dust he clearly believes her to be. And so the battle begins.
Can I just start by saying I love how Philippe says Magalie's name? I don't usually "hear" the characters' voices when I'm reading a book. I may have some small sense of the tenor or cadence with which they speak, but that's generally as far as it goes. This book was different. Philippe was always saying her name. At just the right moments. And in just the right ways. And I could hear him. And I loved him for the way he named her and valued everything that fell under that name. In contrast, Magalie never calls him by name. Not out loud. Her inner thoughts are another thing, but her tightly controlled diction made his open admissions stand out. It was a small thing, perhaps. But it was quite simply a highlight of the book for me. And that is saying something, because I loved THE CHOCOLATE KISS. I wasn't sure I would initially, but I came to care for Magalie and Philippe in a very measured, natural way as I got to know them. One of my favorite things about Laura Florand's male protagonists is the way they own their emotions. They are not ashamed of them and they are not interested in squelching them. They may have a myriad of doubts about the emotions and affections of the people around them. But they allow those people their qualms and hangups, even as they are not afraid to embrace their own. It's admirable characterization and I applaud it. Here, one of my very favorite scenes between our two leads:
It was such a lovely moment, I'm honestly just as affected now, rereading it. It's hard to sum up the many reasons why I connect with these books, but I feel sure saying that in this case it was because I felt the arc of a relationship was so evenly and lovingly drawn. Because I liked them both so much. And because Magalie's journey particularly resonated. I grew up here and there, too. I know what it is like to not know how it is going to go each day in a new place. And I know how quickly the just-now familiar faces and spaces can be replaced with new ones, unfamiliar and uncertain in their newness. At the same time, folding is not an option. And as hard as she holds out, Magalie knows when something is important.
There really was. I'm so glad I got to witness it.
These darling covers continue to delight me. I am such a sucker for a good silhouette, and the multicolored macarons on this one really do lend it just the right whimsical air. I could hardly wait for my copy of THE CHOCOLATE KISS to arrive once I'd finished The Chocolate Thief. It was just such a delightful surprise of a read, made that much sweeter by the knowledge that there were two more books in the series already out there just waiting for me. As feelings I get to experience in my life go, that is one of the ones I savor the most. This series does not follow the same characters, but branches out into side characters. We get glimpses of the previous ones, though, and of course the irresistible Paris setting remains. I had heard somewhat mixed opinions on this second volume. Some were not that enamored of the slight elements of magical realism, others found themselves absolutely charmed. I find when it comes to magical realism, readers really can go either way. For the most part, I tend to really enjoy it. As long as the author has an even, light hand and is careful to shore the fantastical elements up with a solid sense of place and realistic motivations and histories for her characters.
Magalie Chaudron has never belonged anywhere. Wrenched back and forth by her terminally transient parents, she grew up here and there, traveling back and forth from the lavender fields of Provence to the hills up upstate New York at the whim of a mother and father who both could not leave their homes and could not be long without the other. They prided themselves on their supremely adaptable, eminently self-reliant young daughter who could not only put up with the impermanence of their family but also brought joy to their lives. But when she came of age, Magalie took matters into her own hands. Moving to Paris, she made it through university and gratefully accepted the offer of her two maiden aunts to come and live above their salon de thé on the Île Saint-Louis in the middle of the Seine and work in their shop making her delicious chocolat chaud. And suddenly, in her little one-room apartment above La Maison des Sorcieres, Magalie finds home. And if she sends a few wishes for the people who drink her chocolate as she stirs and stirs the pot in her blue-tiled kitchen, well, who is she to say if they actually come true? And everything is stable. And there is no reason to believe she will be wrenched once more from this self-made home that fits her like a glove. Until Lyonnais arrives. Philippe Lyonnais, to be precise. With his world-famous pastries and his elegant shop, he invades her private island without a second thought for the struggling salon de thé down the street. Unwilling to give up her safety or her livelihood, Magalie confronts the lion in his own den, only to be rebuffed and brushed aside like the tiny speck of dust he clearly believes her to be. And so the battle begins.
Can I just start by saying I love how Philippe says Magalie's name? I don't usually "hear" the characters' voices when I'm reading a book. I may have some small sense of the tenor or cadence with which they speak, but that's generally as far as it goes. This book was different. Philippe was always saying her name. At just the right moments. And in just the right ways. And I could hear him. And I loved him for the way he named her and valued everything that fell under that name. In contrast, Magalie never calls him by name. Not out loud. Her inner thoughts are another thing, but her tightly controlled diction made his open admissions stand out. It was a small thing, perhaps. But it was quite simply a highlight of the book for me. And that is saying something, because I loved THE CHOCOLATE KISS. I wasn't sure I would initially, but I came to care for Magalie and Philippe in a very measured, natural way as I got to know them. One of my favorite things about Laura Florand's male protagonists is the way they own their emotions. They are not ashamed of them and they are not interested in squelching them. They may have a myriad of doubts about the emotions and affections of the people around them. But they allow those people their qualms and hangups, even as they are not afraid to embrace their own. It's admirable characterization and I applaud it. Here, one of my very favorite scenes between our two leads:
" . . . if you send another spoiled blonde my way, I'm going to feed her something that makes her fall in love with you, and see how you like it."
Magalie's arrogant expression flickered. Abruptly she seemed to notice the winter-evening dimness of the apartment and crossed to turn on the light by her bed. Her heels sounded wrong on the apartment floor, too aggressive for this space. He wondered if she usually took them off by the door. Had his presence required her to keep on her armor?
"I don't feed them anything to make them fall in love with you." She frowned deeply, seeming unsure where to put herself. Maybe usually she sat on the edge of her bed now, kicking off her shoes, curling up to examine her purchases . . . His blood surged long and slow and hot through his body at the image. "A poor, innocent princess? Why would I do something like that to her?"
"They don't look that innocent to me, but thank you for reminding me of moral considerations," he said politely. Really? She hadn't been sending those would-be seductresses his way? Something bitter was released in him, dissipating so fast, he had to struggle to keep his fighting form. "It's true, it would be quite reprehensible to make anyone fall in love with you."
Her eyes flashed. He almost laughed. This was fun. He felt aroused and infuriated and so alive, he held himself still only by his years of self-discipline. He knew how to pay precise, attentive care to the smallest of movements, how to wait as long as it took for something to be perfect.
She dropped her packages onto the bed, started to take off her jacket, and stopped herself. Oh, so she would usually shrug out of her jacket about now. And drop it carelessly across her bed or hang it up? No, hang it up. The room was so peacefully uncluttered. "If I wish anything on anyone, it's usually strength and courage and clear-seeing, which they never seem to have enough of. I have no idea why that would lead them to you." She looked as if she had bitten into something rotten in polite company and didn't know where to spit it out.
Strength and courage and clear-seeing. He felt himself draw a long, deep breath, like at the gym when he had just finished a punishing set of exercises well. Or at the Meilleur Ouvrier de France trials when the last, extravagant, impossible spin of sugar held. "Thank you," he said, "for the compliment." The extraordinary, beautiful compliment.
It was such a lovely moment, I'm honestly just as affected now, rereading it. It's hard to sum up the many reasons why I connect with these books, but I feel sure saying that in this case it was because I felt the arc of a relationship was so evenly and lovingly drawn. Because I liked them both so much. And because Magalie's journey particularly resonated. I grew up here and there, too. I know what it is like to not know how it is going to go each day in a new place. And I know how quickly the just-now familiar faces and spaces can be replaced with new ones, unfamiliar and uncertain in their newness. At the same time, folding is not an option. And as hard as she holds out, Magalie knows when something is important.
It was hard to trust in happiness, coming from another person, but . . . there was so much of it, around him.
There really was. I'm so glad I got to witness it.
June 9, 2017
Cinq etoiles 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 J'adore ce livre. Enemies-to-lovers, slow burn, multicultural, strong characters, french pastries, hot chocolate - I love everything about The Chocolate Kiss. This book just made me so happy while reading it. I smiled, I cried, I felt for both Philippe and Magalie in their journey to love. Secondary characters were fleshed out well. The descriptions were lavish, evocative, and as decadent as chocolate. I could picture the people and the scenes in my head as I read. It's sexy, heartwarming, magical. I borrowed this book from my library through Overdrive, but I am buying my own paper copy. The last book I did this for: Sally Thorne's The Hating Game. Another addition to my Favorites list.
July 29, 2015
A fun and cute romance novel set in Paris. That simply enchanted me!
Chocolate kiss follows the usual line of Romance Chick-lits, is packed with cliches and very predictable.
BUT who cares?! If it stars a tawny, blue eyed, tall, well built gorgeous french dude that creates this for her
Honestly he had me at french dude… but a man that makes macaroons? the best in Paris?
That alone should be sufficient to give 5stars…. ;)
It's a sweet and fast read. With many aspects that I really enjoyed. But its nothing new or amazing. To be honest the food writing parts reminded me of Chocolate. And as I said before it was utterly predictable. The love scenes - for those of you who enjoy the more smutty reads- are not mind-blowing or amazing, in fact they are rather forgettable.
The character building is alright, I guess. Though to be honest I found it quite hard labored and pulled together. All the explanations on why Magalie has commitment issues, are a bit long drawn. And after the scene with her mother at the train station- I kinda was irritated by it. I honestly didn't care much why she has them! I am aware that this is the authors attempt to give the story and its characters depths, but I think it was a unfruitful,clumsy and utterly unnecessary attempt. This novel shines on the sensual writing and I for one would have been happy with a totally lighthearted affair.
While I kinda enjoyed the french words and sentences that were thrown in- I am wondering how readers who neither know french nor Paris will feel about it. I always find it a tricky thing to write the book in a language that the characters aren't actually speaking. I get why Florand chose to go the route she went, to give it more of a Parisienne identity- but at times it feels a bit distracting. So I am wondering if that approach is not more distracting than helpful.
Despite all this and the fact that I wouldn't bother watching this a movie- I was grinning through most of the book. And felt positively enchanted by it after finishing.
I loved the banter and fight between Magalie and Philippe. I liked that neither of them were pushovers or would give in, but neither couldn't let go as well.
The scenes of Paris are beautiful- especially Paris in the snow.
The parallels to Rapunzel is really clever- though I might be biased slightly, it always was my favorite grime's tale and living high up in a tower in Île Saint-Louis is definitely a hell-YES! from me.
The best part no question were the food scenes. I enjoyed every second of it. I do have a thing about macaroons, so that might have something to do with it. Florand's descriptions of the food making are beautiful, seductive, tempting and sensual. And what are to be truthful a big My favorites are the descriptions of the macaroon making. Though all of the food scenes are thoroughly scrumptious! As I said I have a thing about macaroons and those passages had me yearning for a trip to Herme or Sprungli, pondering over those white peach macaroons I had last summer and considering baking some for myself….
A little remark on Philips scrumptious P
Isphahan like creation- rambutan is incredibly smelly, who on earth would keep that in their fridge in Paris? why on earth would anybody put up with its smell not to speak of the fact that it doesnt taste like much? i know that the idea was to replace the litchi in Ispahan. But rambutan? Uhm, sorry but my nose is part of the entire eating experience and i don't think Florand will be creating an amazing new macaroon flavor anytime soon.
The idea of the magical ingredient made me grin every time- because i really believe that it exists , the smile from the bottom of your heart as you stir the chocolate chaud. That's the secret ingredient in all wonderful meals!
If there were a place like La Maison des Sorcieres, I would spend every afternoon of my life there! More so I found myself wishing to own a place like it!
I haven't read the first book in the series, which I definitely will do. And I am looking forward to the next installment as well!
3.5Stars rounded up (thanks to Philip and his scrumptiousness)
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you!
Chocolate kiss follows the usual line of Romance Chick-lits, is packed with cliches and very predictable.
BUT who cares?! If it stars a tawny, blue eyed, tall, well built gorgeous french dude that creates this for her
Honestly he had me at french dude… but a man that makes macaroons? the best in Paris?
That alone should be sufficient to give 5stars…. ;)
It's a sweet and fast read. With many aspects that I really enjoyed. But its nothing new or amazing. To be honest the food writing parts reminded me of Chocolate. And as I said before it was utterly predictable. The love scenes - for those of you who enjoy the more smutty reads- are not mind-blowing or amazing, in fact they are rather forgettable.
The character building is alright, I guess. Though to be honest I found it quite hard labored and pulled together. All the explanations on why Magalie has commitment issues, are a bit long drawn. And after the scene with her mother at the train station- I kinda was irritated by it. I honestly didn't care much why she has them! I am aware that this is the authors attempt to give the story and its characters depths, but I think it was a unfruitful,clumsy and utterly unnecessary attempt. This novel shines on the sensual writing and I for one would have been happy with a totally lighthearted affair.
While I kinda enjoyed the french words and sentences that were thrown in- I am wondering how readers who neither know french nor Paris will feel about it. I always find it a tricky thing to write the book in a language that the characters aren't actually speaking. I get why Florand chose to go the route she went, to give it more of a Parisienne identity- but at times it feels a bit distracting. So I am wondering if that approach is not more distracting than helpful.
Despite all this and the fact that I wouldn't bother watching this a movie- I was grinning through most of the book. And felt positively enchanted by it after finishing.
I loved the banter and fight between Magalie and Philippe. I liked that neither of them were pushovers or would give in, but neither couldn't let go as well.
The scenes of Paris are beautiful- especially Paris in the snow.
The parallels to Rapunzel is really clever- though I might be biased slightly, it always was my favorite grime's tale and living high up in a tower in Île Saint-Louis is definitely a hell-YES! from me.
The best part no question were the food scenes. I enjoyed every second of it. I do have a thing about macaroons, so that might have something to do with it. Florand's descriptions of the food making are beautiful, seductive, tempting and sensual. And what are to be truthful a big My favorites are the descriptions of the macaroon making. Though all of the food scenes are thoroughly scrumptious! As I said I have a thing about macaroons and those passages had me yearning for a trip to Herme or Sprungli, pondering over those white peach macaroons I had last summer and considering baking some for myself….
A little remark on Philips scrumptious P
Isphahan like creation- rambutan is incredibly smelly, who on earth would keep that in their fridge in Paris? why on earth would anybody put up with its smell not to speak of the fact that it doesnt taste like much? i know that the idea was to replace the litchi in Ispahan. But rambutan? Uhm, sorry but my nose is part of the entire eating experience and i don't think Florand will be creating an amazing new macaroon flavor anytime soon.
The idea of the magical ingredient made me grin every time- because i really believe that it exists , the smile from the bottom of your heart as you stir the chocolate chaud. That's the secret ingredient in all wonderful meals!
If there were a place like La Maison des Sorcieres, I would spend every afternoon of my life there! More so I found myself wishing to own a place like it!
I haven't read the first book in the series, which I definitely will do. And I am looking forward to the next installment as well!
3.5Stars rounded up (thanks to Philip and his scrumptiousness)
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you!
April 9, 2017
Amazing!So I almost DNF'ed this book at the start, as the author's descriptive style of writing took me a while to get into but once I did, I loved the book. The whole Parisian setup, the hero, the vulnerable heroine - everything!
August 3, 2016
3.5 I enjoyed this though the whole invading her apartment was very problematic for me.
June 10, 2018
A hilarious and heartwarming book! Magalie and Philippe were lovable characters and I couldn’t stop myself from wishing that this was a true story. It’s just what I needed on these overwhelming days.
April 27, 2015
Overall rating: 4.25 "Witch" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
HEA:
Why not 5 stars? As much as I loved the heroine, I thought she was resistant for way too long. I also would have loved an epilogue :)
This was a sweet and romantic story filled with lots of sexual tension! My lord!
Magalie Chaudron spends her days working in her Aunt's cafe spreading good wishes for other people with her special chocolate brew. She never had much in regards to stability of having one place to call her own until her Aunt and her partner took her under their wing. Her mother and father loved each other but not as much as they loved theirselves so she was constantly traveling between US and Europe. She has every reason to not trust love and relationships based on her past and then she meets Philippe.
Magalie didn't know going to the newly opened pastry shop to warn the owner away from HER island would be the first day towards her HEA. As soon as Philippe sees Magalie, he is star struck. She is so beautiful, but then she opens her mouth and threatens him to leave because there is already a cafe on this island. Then she proceeds to dismiss his dessert that he made especially for her with his bare hands? Game on! But, this wasn't a rival game per say - this is the game of love.
Philippe was an amazing and patient hero. He did anything and everything to break down her walls so she would let him in. Some of the things he did were extremely romantic.
Very cute romance and very slow burning - on the heroine's part.
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
HEA:
Why not 5 stars? As much as I loved the heroine, I thought she was resistant for way too long. I also would have loved an epilogue :)
This was a sweet and romantic story filled with lots of sexual tension! My lord!
Magalie Chaudron spends her days working in her Aunt's cafe spreading good wishes for other people with her special chocolate brew. She never had much in regards to stability of having one place to call her own until her Aunt and her partner took her under their wing. Her mother and father loved each other but not as much as they loved theirselves so she was constantly traveling between US and Europe. She has every reason to not trust love and relationships based on her past and then she meets Philippe.
Magalie didn't know going to the newly opened pastry shop to warn the owner away from HER island would be the first day towards her HEA. As soon as Philippe sees Magalie, he is star struck. She is so beautiful, but then she opens her mouth and threatens him to leave because there is already a cafe on this island. Then she proceeds to dismiss his dessert that he made especially for her with his bare hands? Game on! But, this wasn't a rival game per say - this is the game of love.
Philippe was an amazing and patient hero. He did anything and everything to break down her walls so she would let him in. Some of the things he did were extremely romantic.
Very cute romance and very slow burning - on the heroine's part.
December 27, 2012
Review:
The Chocolate Kiss was a love story that felt so fresh in comparison to the typical romances that I've been reading. So many books these days just go for the sex to solve everything but The Chocolate Kiss was more about creating an ambiance using the romantic setting of Paris as it’s backdrop to it’s full advantage.
I adore stories that feature chefs and food anyway but the rivalry and blossoming romance between Magalie and Philippe is just mouthwateringly delicious.
Magalie has built so many walls around herself to protect her heart. Even her clothing is chosen as a form of defensive armor. I found her to be very off-putting at first. She has a flair for the dramatic and views almost everything as a hostile takeover of her small chocolate shop and way of life. I wish the author had given the reasons for this a little earlier in the story so I could have had more empathy for her character but I did come to love Magalie by the end.
Phillipe is a domineering, confidant man that takes up all the space in a room - suffocating Magalie, pushing her to confront memories and feelings that she'd prefer to keep locked away.
I don't usually like that type of man but I loved Phillipe. I think it helps that we get his POV early on in the relationship. Without it, you might tend to believe Magalie's narration that he is steamrolling over her business and into her heart. Phillipe is trying to get into her heart but only to expand and share it - not to overpower her.
Their exchanges are frustrating, humorous and heartbreaking at times. Each believing that the other is the stubborn - willful one. It was fascinating watching it all play out.
This is probably one of the most erotic books I have read. I'm not talking about explicit sex scenes either. The way they tempt each other with their pastries & chocolate chaud, daring each other to surrender, is sensual. He endeavors to make macarons using ingredients that make up Magalie's very essence. She imbues each cup of chocolate with dreams and wishes. He often asks her what she is wishing for him. Seduction - or to make him a toad. lol
You might need to take a cold shower after reading about them making her infamous hot chocolate. They don't even touch and it's hotter than hot! Just hearing him describe his thought process for creating a macaroni is sexy. *fans self*
The Chocolate Kiss has just a touch of magic and faery tales, beautiful snowy nights in Paris, two strong minded aunts and the most decadent descriptions of pastry that I have ever read.
It inspired me to try and find a pastry shop with macaron’s nearby. Well….I kind of live in the middle of nowhere but I did find a place within driving distance that I’m going to try when I get a chance. le macaron French pastries in Winterpark, FL.
Final thoughts: It took me a little while to warm up to Magalie but this is such a sweet, romantic story of falling in love and finding oneself. It's the perfect book to cozy up with on a cold winters night.
This is book #2 in Florand's Chocolate series but I had not read the first - this reads as a stand alone. I'm very interested in reading her other books now though.
The Chocolate Kiss was a love story that felt so fresh in comparison to the typical romances that I've been reading. So many books these days just go for the sex to solve everything but The Chocolate Kiss was more about creating an ambiance using the romantic setting of Paris as it’s backdrop to it’s full advantage.
I adore stories that feature chefs and food anyway but the rivalry and blossoming romance between Magalie and Philippe is just mouthwateringly delicious.
Magalie has built so many walls around herself to protect her heart. Even her clothing is chosen as a form of defensive armor. I found her to be very off-putting at first. She has a flair for the dramatic and views almost everything as a hostile takeover of her small chocolate shop and way of life. I wish the author had given the reasons for this a little earlier in the story so I could have had more empathy for her character but I did come to love Magalie by the end.
Phillipe is a domineering, confidant man that takes up all the space in a room - suffocating Magalie, pushing her to confront memories and feelings that she'd prefer to keep locked away.
I don't usually like that type of man but I loved Phillipe. I think it helps that we get his POV early on in the relationship. Without it, you might tend to believe Magalie's narration that he is steamrolling over her business and into her heart. Phillipe is trying to get into her heart but only to expand and share it - not to overpower her.
Their exchanges are frustrating, humorous and heartbreaking at times. Each believing that the other is the stubborn - willful one. It was fascinating watching it all play out.
This is probably one of the most erotic books I have read. I'm not talking about explicit sex scenes either. The way they tempt each other with their pastries & chocolate chaud, daring each other to surrender, is sensual. He endeavors to make macarons using ingredients that make up Magalie's very essence. She imbues each cup of chocolate with dreams and wishes. He often asks her what she is wishing for him. Seduction - or to make him a toad. lol
You might need to take a cold shower after reading about them making her infamous hot chocolate. They don't even touch and it's hotter than hot! Just hearing him describe his thought process for creating a macaroni is sexy. *fans self*
The Chocolate Kiss has just a touch of magic and faery tales, beautiful snowy nights in Paris, two strong minded aunts and the most decadent descriptions of pastry that I have ever read.
It inspired me to try and find a pastry shop with macaron’s nearby. Well….I kind of live in the middle of nowhere but I did find a place within driving distance that I’m going to try when I get a chance. le macaron French pastries in Winterpark, FL.
Final thoughts: It took me a little while to warm up to Magalie but this is such a sweet, romantic story of falling in love and finding oneself. It's the perfect book to cozy up with on a cold winters night.
This is book #2 in Florand's Chocolate series but I had not read the first - this reads as a stand alone. I'm very interested in reading her other books now though.
August 22, 2019
2,8 Stars
This is my second time reading book written by Laura Florand. The previous one was, of course, the first book of this series: The Chocolate Thief. Well, I didn't really remember the name of main characters in the first book that I was confused when Magalie and her aunts mentioned their names a few times here, lol. I was like, who were these people they were fussed about?
The main story of this book is still about chocolate business and the romance itself was exactly like the first book. They hated and then they loved each other. The storytelling was a bit repetitive that I found it somewhat dry, especially on the early chapters. It was like running around in circles. I think this book shouldn't have been this thick. I found some incomplete sentences and some of the translations were puzzling. I don't know if it was just the translations matter or it was just Florand's complicated way of storytelling.
Funny moments were there and they were able to make up for my disappointment on the previous chapters. The macaron and chocolate story was great I really wanted to taste them. And I really appreciate Florand's research for this book. This was what a professional author should do. I hope I can do what you've done hehe. However, Magalie wasn't really an interesting main character for me. She was so uninspiring, really. Sorry, Magalie. Maybe I just don't know you that well.
(For Sale: https://www.instagram.com/goodybook99/ or https://www.tokopedia.com/goodybook) (less)
This is my second time reading book written by Laura Florand. The previous one was, of course, the first book of this series: The Chocolate Thief. Well, I didn't really remember the name of main characters in the first book that I was confused when Magalie and her aunts mentioned their names a few times here, lol. I was like, who were these people they were fussed about?
The main story of this book is still about chocolate business and the romance itself was exactly like the first book. They hated and then they loved each other. The storytelling was a bit repetitive that I found it somewhat dry, especially on the early chapters. It was like running around in circles. I think this book shouldn't have been this thick. I found some incomplete sentences and some of the translations were puzzling. I don't know if it was just the translations matter or it was just Florand's complicated way of storytelling.
Funny moments were there and they were able to make up for my disappointment on the previous chapters. The macaron and chocolate story was great I really wanted to taste them. And I really appreciate Florand's research for this book. This was what a professional author should do. I hope I can do what you've done hehe. However, Magalie wasn't really an interesting main character for me. She was so uninspiring, really. Sorry, Magalie. Maybe I just don't know you that well.
(For Sale: https://www.instagram.com/goodybook99/ or https://www.tokopedia.com/goodybook) (less)
May 3, 2015
YES! This romance was as equally sweet as chocolate and would never forget the vivid, imaginary scenes of "utter indulgence" in eating chocolate cake! I have to give it to the author for her imaginary talent in providing scenes that "are so real" you think you are "there" experiencing it! Very rarely I come across an author that has that ability to craft her writing in a way that is so authentic and factual...you will never get lost in her writing..its written with magical touch of scenery and it will pull you in emotionally. The courtship of Hero and heroine is sensual, witty, and delicious throughout with a great dose of humor and sexual tension. my only complain would be the heroine was a bit to stubborn and at times I wish she would open up more to the Hero because he really was working hard to win her attention whichever way he could! That being said, I really recommend this book for those who like enemies to lovers type of books and a lot back and forth funny banters.
December 3, 2015
FIRST THOUGHTS: What a lovely combination of contemporary romance and fairy tale elements!
October 10, 2020
Well. Wasn't enthused on reading this book too much at first. After a few chapters in I was hooked. I've been to Paris and I do know where these shops were, didn't go to that area but I knew where it was. They reminded me of the shops I saw on Montmarte area. There is magic there, not just of the Witches kind. I'm not sure a native Parisian would see it this way, this almost had a feel of how tourists see Paris. The story is so good and rich not just in chocolate but in Magalie's evolution. I think her parents are selfish for what they did to her IMO.
I'm so glad I finally read this - another book where I'm smacking myself wondering WTH did I wait?
And I'm making the recipe for hot chocolate Le Chocolat Chaud - once it starts getting cold.
I'm so glad I finally read this - another book where I'm smacking myself wondering WTH did I wait?
And I'm making the recipe for hot chocolate Le Chocolat Chaud - once it starts getting cold.
September 24, 2020
It's even better on the reread. The French-accented narration significantly enhanced the experience. I really enjoyed the ”trip” to Paris, the food porn, the fantastic characters, and the awesome dialogue. Philippe’s sense of self is outstanding and Magalie’s individuality is remarkable. This is my favorite book of the series, by far.
October 22, 2016
This is the second book in Ms. Florand’s Chocolat-series, and just as the first book, it features an American heroine and a French hero who is also a chocolatier. There’s more love of good food in this book, more of the love of Paris and more stereotypical (but that doesn’t mean it’s not true) prejudices against both Americans and French. And with the added voice of Ms. Florand it’s just as enticing as the first book was. What made this one stand out to me was the sweetness, the added sense of magic through the aunts and the battle between the high profile, but still kind of chain store, against the small, quirky teashop and of course the hero and the heroine: an enemies to lovers story (at least on her side).
I really couldn’t put it down once I had started… and that was, because of one of those random things that make a person just not able to fall asleep. So I did what I usually do, I read. Not with the purpose of falling asleep instantly, but because while reading I will be able to do something nice instead of frustrating myself, and while reading I will put all those thoughts in my head to rest. Only… I didn’t want to put it down. And when I had dressed in the morning to go to work… I still didn’t want to put it down. And while stuff can be said about the writing style or layout (are those cursive fonts really necessary), the fact that I didn’t want to stop reading, makes this a 5 star for me.
The hero. He was cocky. Oh yes. And he felt oh so safe in his position high up on the charts of best patissiers, as was his right as the son of the son of the son of best patissiers. He was like Simba, looking out over the world from his vantage point high on the cliff, controlling all below. And so when he saw a location he hadn’t put his stamp on, it was only logical that he did. And all the local shops would benefit from the extra tourist traffic he would create. So imagine his surprise when one day a flimsy woman walks into his pastry shop, into his kitchen, and dares to contradict him!
The heroine works with her aunts in what must be the most quirky tea-shop, which also sells amazing hot chocolate. The shop is Halloween itself, decorated with witches hats and the chocolate on the stove like a cauldron with a magic potion into it. And the heroine even makes wishes for the customers with the chocolate before she serves it. She feels safe in her little corner of Paris, the little isle, where the big city feels very far away. And then that same big city, in the form of the big bad wolf (the hero) comes in to take over. And no, of course, that cannot happen.
I loved that the hero never once wavered in attraction to the heroine and didn’t play any games with his attraction either. Only at one point did he play a little hard to get, but at the same time didn’t turn her out of his apartment and even offered her his bed, taking the couch himself.
The heroine was insecure, she had issues, but it was with respect to opening her heart to love and depending on someone else, and not with respect to his fame. In a way, she was the Cinderella to his Prince, with him being the big chef, but she wasn't intimidated by his looks, his fame or his money, but by his person, his presence and his attentions to her.
Moviewise this story, reminded me of Simply Irresistible (with Sarah Michelle Gellar). Not a superb quality movie perhaps, but it does have the love of cooking, the magical pastries, the cozy shop and the overall sweetness of this book.
So yes, if in doubt, read this book.
It has some French phrases scattered throughout the book. If you don’t have a basic knowledge of French that could put you off. But trust me, all the major things are translated.
I really couldn’t put it down once I had started… and that was, because of one of those random things that make a person just not able to fall asleep. So I did what I usually do, I read. Not with the purpose of falling asleep instantly, but because while reading I will be able to do something nice instead of frustrating myself, and while reading I will put all those thoughts in my head to rest. Only… I didn’t want to put it down. And when I had dressed in the morning to go to work… I still didn’t want to put it down. And while stuff can be said about the writing style or layout (are those cursive fonts really necessary), the fact that I didn’t want to stop reading, makes this a 5 star for me.
The hero. He was cocky. Oh yes. And he felt oh so safe in his position high up on the charts of best patissiers, as was his right as the son of the son of the son of best patissiers. He was like Simba, looking out over the world from his vantage point high on the cliff, controlling all below. And so when he saw a location he hadn’t put his stamp on, it was only logical that he did. And all the local shops would benefit from the extra tourist traffic he would create. So imagine his surprise when one day a flimsy woman walks into his pastry shop, into his kitchen, and dares to contradict him!
The heroine works with her aunts in what must be the most quirky tea-shop, which also sells amazing hot chocolate. The shop is Halloween itself, decorated with witches hats and the chocolate on the stove like a cauldron with a magic potion into it. And the heroine even makes wishes for the customers with the chocolate before she serves it. She feels safe in her little corner of Paris, the little isle, where the big city feels very far away. And then that same big city, in the form of the big bad wolf (the hero) comes in to take over. And no, of course, that cannot happen.
I loved that the hero never once wavered in attraction to the heroine and didn’t play any games with his attraction either. Only at one point did he play a little hard to get, but at the same time didn’t turn her out of his apartment and even offered her his bed, taking the couch himself.
The heroine was insecure, she had issues, but it was with respect to opening her heart to love and depending on someone else, and not with respect to his fame. In a way, she was the Cinderella to his Prince, with him being the big chef, but she wasn't intimidated by his looks, his fame or his money, but by his person, his presence and his attentions to her.
Moviewise this story, reminded me of Simply Irresistible (with Sarah Michelle Gellar). Not a superb quality movie perhaps, but it does have the love of cooking, the magical pastries, the cozy shop and the overall sweetness of this book.
So yes, if in doubt, read this book.
It has some French phrases scattered throughout the book. If you don’t have a basic knowledge of French that could put you off. But trust me, all the major things are translated.
April 26, 2021
This book is simply enchanting. It had a magical dreamlike quality about it that I found irresistible. It takes place in Paris and you can feel the magic of that city in every page of the book. Magalie works at her aunts chocolate shop where she makes chocolat chaud and stirs in a wish for her customers. Phillipe owns the big pastry shop down the road and it seems that he puts something of himself into the creations he makes for Magalie. Their push and pull and stubbornness had their chemistry going off the charts. Watching a prince and a witch fall in love was wonderful.
This book wouldn't be nearly so good if the writing weren't so amazing.
You couldn't cure loneliness by wallowing in it...but she had such a hard time with the cures. They seemed rough and brusque and brutal, as if they abused her skin with a pot scrubber, things like trying to go out with men she barely knew, or dancing in Paris nightclubs, or hanging out with friends in bars over in that world past the banks of the river.
This book reminded me a lot of the movie "Amelie". It had the same whimsy and heart. Magalie is such a sweet heroine that you want her to get all that she deserves and you want her to find it with the amazing Phillipe.
This book wouldn't be nearly so good if the writing weren't so amazing.
You couldn't cure loneliness by wallowing in it...but she had such a hard time with the cures. They seemed rough and brusque and brutal, as if they abused her skin with a pot scrubber, things like trying to go out with men she barely knew, or dancing in Paris nightclubs, or hanging out with friends in bars over in that world past the banks of the river.
This book reminded me a lot of the movie "Amelie". It had the same whimsy and heart. Magalie is such a sweet heroine that you want her to get all that she deserves and you want her to find it with the amazing Phillipe.
July 28, 2015
OH MY GOD THIS WAS SO GREAT. Is it just me or did Laura Florand lock down the perfect recipe for romance? Paris! Handsome, confident, competent dudes who are really really into awesome, tridimensional ladies! Really hot sex! CHOCOLATE, SO MUCH CHOCOLATE.
Ugh, it made me so hungry (... in more than one way). I could just imagine eating the macarons every time Magalie almost did. And it feel reductive to say that the sex scenes were hot because they were so much more than just sex scenes, they were like perfectly engineered fantasies made to drive you wild with lust. And I loved the banter, and the fairy-tale feel (at first, I didn't like it as much, but it got much better and ~magical). I also really like seeing Sylvain and Cade again! And I really laughed at Paris' inability to deal with snow (oh non! 6cm of fluffy snow, better close down all the city!).
YOU SHOULD ALL READ THIS
Ugh, it made me so hungry (... in more than one way). I could just imagine eating the macarons every time Magalie almost did. And it feel reductive to say that the sex scenes were hot because they were so much more than just sex scenes, they were like perfectly engineered fantasies made to drive you wild with lust. And I loved the banter, and the fairy-tale feel (at first, I didn't like it as much, but it got much better and ~magical). I also really like seeing Sylvain and Cade again! And I really laughed at Paris' inability to deal with snow (oh non! 6cm of fluffy snow, better close down all the city!).
YOU SHOULD ALL READ THIS
July 2, 2016
More like 11 billion stars.
I loved it so much, I CAN'T EVEN!!!! New favorite for sure. I'm going to reread the heck out this book so many times, it's not even funny.
It's *such* a Racquel book. Philippe an Magalie are rivals in the beginning and Magalie pretty much hates Philippe and the way everything changes it was all just so magical. A subtle, beautiful magical book. Hate-to-love is kind of my favorite thing ever and subtle and quiet are the flavor I like books to be in so yeah I LOOOOOOVED THIS BOOOOOOK!!!!
I loved it so much, I CAN'T EVEN!!!! New favorite for sure. I'm going to reread the heck out this book so many times, it's not even funny.
It's *such* a Racquel book. Philippe an Magalie are rivals in the beginning and Magalie pretty much hates Philippe and the way everything changes it was all just so magical. A subtle, beautiful magical book. Hate-to-love is kind of my favorite thing ever and subtle and quiet are the flavor I like books to be in so yeah I LOOOOOOVED THIS BOOOOOOK!!!!
December 12, 2014
I don't know. I didn't like this much. Not the writing, or the two main characters, or the relationship. I want to write something smart about feminism and women, only I've got the barest threads of ideas about that, and I don't really want to reread the book to solidify them into something meaningful.
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