The Second-Worst Restaurant in France

By: Alexander McCall Smith

Narrated by: Timothy Ackroyd

In a delightful sequel to the best-selling comedic novel My Italian Bulldozer, we are in a French village where the local restaurant's haute cuisine leaves a lot to be desired - and two books into an astounding ninth series from one of our most beloved authors.

Renowned cookbook writer Paul Stuart, renewed and refreshed from his time in Tuscany, has returned to Scotland to work on his new book, The Philosophy of Food in Six Easy Chapters. Writing, though, is complicated by Paul's changed domestic circumstances. His editor and new girlfriend, Gloria, has moved in with him despite not being specifically invited, and she's brought her two rather demanding Siamese cats. When Paul's cousin, Chloe, suggests Paul visit her in the French countryside, Paul jumps at the chance. However, once he arrives, he finds his fortunes tangled up with the infamous local restaurant that gives the book its title.

In this story about a man who prides himself on his taste finding delight in the most unexpected places, we have Alexander McCall Smith at his most witty and charming.

©2019 Alexander McCall Smith (P)2019 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd

Wonderful

I was definitely surprised by this book. I found it very engaging and was sad to have it end. I will definitely look for this author again. The performance was like listening to Sean Connery speak. And, what woman could resist that.

A lovely break from stress

I love the pace of the story and the reader’s voice. And the main character was delightful. I wanted a Read that would give me a break from my external chaotic stressful life and this book was just the break I needed.

Very funny!

Loved all the food and book references and quirky, mysterious Chloe with Paul as the straight man. Especially humorous was the pregnant waitress. The reading was well done.

Delightful

Sweet story of humanity. A desire to live in a world of kindness-all of the time.

Thoroughly enjoyable!

Great story and I love the way AMS writes dialogue and private thoughts of the main character, Paul. I will be listening to it more than once!