Food, family, and secrets combine in Cathy Lamb's emotional and deeply
honest novel as one woman discovers the recipes and life lessons that
have shaped her family's past, and could guide her toward a second
chance at happiness.
Two years ago, Olivia Martindale left behind her Montana hometown and
her husband, Jace, certain it was the best decision for both of them.
Back temporarily to protect her almost-adopted daughters from their
biological mother, she discovers an old, handwritten cookbook in the
attic. Its pages are stained and torn, their edges scorched by flame.
Some have been smeared by water . . . or tears. The recipes are written
in different hands and in different languages. In between the pages are
intriguing mementos, including a feather, a pressed rose, a charm, and
unfamiliar photographs.
Hoping the recipes will offer a window into her grandmother's closely
guarded past, Olivia decides to make each dish, along with their
favorite family cake recipes, and records her attempts. The result, like
much of her life to date, involves a parade of near-disasters and
chaotic appearances by her doctor mother, her blunt grandma, her
short-tempered sister, and Olivia's two hilarious daughters. The project
is messy, real--and an unintended hit with viewers.
Even more surprising is the family history Olivia is uncovering, and her
own reemerging ties to Montana, and to Jace. Generations of women have
shared these recipes, offering strength and nourishment to each other
and their loved ones. Now it's Olivia's turn to find healing--and
determine where her home and her heart truly belong.
