Bon Appetit

In this follow up to "Let Them Eat Cake", author Sandra Byrd brings more delightful tales of Lexi. This time around, Lexi is starting to live her dream of becoming a classically trained Chef. The setting of France adds depth to Lexi's story with its wonderful history of delicious foods and wondefully romantic scenes. As Lexi tries to entrench herself deeply into French life, she begins to wonder is new avenues are in store for her or if her heart is still in Seattle and tied to Dan. This is a wonderful story that sees Lexi explore her relationship to God, her parents and two men - one French and one American. Sandra Byrd does not disappoint in this follow up which is reach with wonderfully engaging characters, tempting descriptions of amazing food and an opportunity to see Lexi continue growing into her destiny. This book was a delight, BUT left me ravished for the 3rd and final installment!

Bonjour! Lexi Stuart has traded Seattle for France and is now working in a French bakery while going to culinary school. She has to put up with snobby coworkers and backstabbing classmates. Still she's also having the time of her life, drinking in French culture and eating chouquettes. This is an experience of a lifetime for her and it's one she'll never forget. It also doesn't hurt that she's caught the eye of the shop owner's son Philippe with his adorable daughter. Then Lexi's given the opportunity to stay on in France or go back home in Seattle where another suitor Dan is waiting. Which will she end up choosing? This book is everything you could possibly want for a good read. Engaging storyline, delicious food, exotic travel. While the cover of the first book in this series was yummy, the cover of this one was just plain deletable. I wanted to eat this book. I think I gained weight just by reading it. I think I probably was snacking also while reading. I enjoyed reading about Lexi's journey through culinary school and her total experience in France. I would have loved to be in her shoes throughout this book. Reading about her job in the bakery was a mouthwatering experience. Watching the Food Network probably helped out a lot for me understand the book more especially with the cooking language. The recipes sprinkled throughout the book are a wonderful touch giving the reader a chance to taste what Lexi is actually making. It makes the book more interactive and helps the reader get into the story more. One thing I did not envy about Lexi was her having to choose between Dan and Philippe. They're both good guys, so I feel bad for whoever she doesn't choose. Once again this story isn't preachy yet Lexi renews her faith through a new culture. I do love her observations about how everything in France is religious centered even if the people don't notice it. Honestly I could not find anything wrong with this book. I tried. I could say that French people are snobby and that Lexi was treated unfairly but it's a weak argument. It deserves nothing less than 5 stars. This book was a joy to read and is one that any chick lit, foodie or French culture fan will enjoy. I cannot wait until the next (and final) book in the series comes out next year. Until then I think I might have to go hunt down a bakery and find me some baked treats to tide me over. VERY HIGHLY recommended.

Bon Appetit by Sandra Byrd is a book about a young girl, Lexi, who moves to France to work in a bakery and go to school to become a pastry chef. Lexi's transition from America to France is fraught with difficulty. First of all, so many of the people with whom she deals hate Americans, which is understandable as a cultural generalization, but not of Lexi who is wonderfully warm, respectful of French culture, and best intentioned. Secondly, school is hard and complicated by different personalities and someone sabotaging the students' recipes. Finally, Lexi has to make difficult choices concerning her romantic life and her professional career. You'll find yourself pulling for Lexi as she encounters each obstacle, and your heart will soar each time she learns to trust in God for guidance and companionship. Lexi's story is great. This book is the second in a series, the first book being Let Them Eat Cake. However, you do not need to have read the first book to completely enjoy and understand Bon Appetit (I still haven't read the first book, but I will). The best part about this book for me were the discussions on food. Seriously. I love to cook and reading about the cooking school and all the fancy desserts being made was just facsinating to me. Best of all, there are several recipes featured in the book. Most are desserts, but there was a recipe for French Onion Soup which, once altered to suit a vegan diet, was DELICIOUS!!! I love French Onion Soup, but haven't had it in years because of the beef broth used in restaurants (and the fact that my one attempt to make it at home years ago was a horrible flop). I tried the recipe in this book (page 143) and LOVED IT. In fact, I started out by making half a batch in case it was bad, and went back and made a double batch the next day. This book is truly a yummy book, for reading entertainment and your pleasure in cooking! I'm looking forward to the next French Twist book!

Lexi's journey appeals to readers of all ages as she meets crossroads in life and finds decisions are not always as clear cut as she'd like and take courage and faith that she must dig deep to find. If you have never been to Paris, prepare to be transported. Author Sandra Byrd's descriptions are amazingly detailed on right on target. I felt like I was walking into the bakery and knew the people, could smell the food and touch the dough. Bon Appetit!

If you thought that "Bon Appetit" would fulfill your appetite I am telling you now it only makes you crave for more. I can't wait for the third book to hit the shelves. I recommend this to all women as a delicious read. I only wish I could enjoy these divine pastries that I keep reading about.