Francesca's Kitchen

This book has such a lovely, down-to-earth quality to the story of an Italian matriarch and the devotion she has to her family, the food she masterfully prepares and serves, and the pride she has in those she loves! I love how Peter develops his characters and creates a realistic look at who they are, where their values have originated, and their love of Family. Francesca was a marvelous, complex, and loving character who was the epitome of the Italian Mother. Her relationship with God and her importance of Family was very traditional and typical. I enjoyed how she wanted more out of life for herself and for those for whom she cared. I look forward to reading Peter's future books, as he is an extremely talented writer. I'm sure his family is very proud of him. I know that his father would be!!

I enjoyed this book - have read a few of his other books and being as I am 100% Italian, I totally enjoy all the references to Italian food and customs as well as the Roman Catholic references. It was nice to see an older individual feeling like she had something to give - so many elderly people are just plain bored and give up on life. It was fun and I liked the recipes.

I accidentally discovered Peter Pezzelli's writing when I picked up Italian Lessons at a yard sale. Ive now purchased all of his books. His writing draws a picture. I can see the characters and places in my mind. I can almost smell the food cooking. This book drew me in. I love the characters and story lines. I wish all of the book descriptions didn't give away so much as it would make the journey through the book even more exciting.

Francesca's Kitchen was a nice little book but there isn't much too it. The outcome is predictable. I was expecting more recipes along the way and there weren't many but she did make me hungry for her sauce! It is a pleasant read and one that is good for the beach or waiting rooms because you can pick it up anytime and pick right up on the storyline. Only a few characters. It is written by a man trying to get into the minds of women so I would like to read about a similar situation from a woman's point of view!

if you're looking for a new author to dive into , I highly recommend his books. My cousin sent me " Italian lessons" and I couldn't out it down so I ordered this one. I don't like reading on e books, I like to hold a book in my hands. You don't be disappointed but definitely get Italian lessons too. Happy reading !!

After just finishing a long and detailed book I needed a light book to breeze thru. What I like to call a "dessert book ". This just fit the bill. An easy, quick and fun book. I enjoyed it immensely. The characters are all likeable, the story sweet and the inserts of Italian cooking inspiring.

For women of my age group (50+) this is a charming story about one woman's ability to cope with having her family members live a great distance from her home town. Francesca is alert, willing to put herself out to help others, and most importantly, willing to withhold criticism because other families do things differently. I admired the author's technique of moving the plot along without presenting too many of the challenges that we face as we age. I've already recommended this book to a number of my friends, and each of them has enjoyed the book. Francesca's Kitchen is a winner to keep the reader amused, interested, and turning the pages to see what happens next.

I loved this story. I wish I had a Francesca in my life, in my kitchen - better yet, I would love to sit in Francesa's kitchen, sit at her kitchen table over a cup of coffee and watch her cook. I could learn so much from Francesca about good cooking, love, life, family and faith. If you like Italian food, like taking nostalgic trips back to the "old" way of thinking and doing things, you'll love this book - although there are some "today" situations in it too. It is not totally old-world. You, too, will fall in love with Francesca. I hope that Peter Pezzelli makes a sequel. I can't get enough of Francesca. I highly recommend it. You will not be disappointed.

Like Francesca, I am a grandmother with family far away. My heart is always heavy on the plane leaving them to return home. The book tugged at my heart, brought tears to my eyes. I am happiest in my kitchen cooking for my family, like Francesca. Very enjoyable story and recipes! Thank you Peter Pezzelli for this wonderful story.

This writer has a magical touch and writes magical books. His stories imbue the reader with a wonderful feeling of contentment knowing there is nothing but good to follow.

Fantastic book, love everybody in this book especially Francesca.

If you haven't read any of Peter Pezzelli's wonderful novels, don't wait another day. They are great books and Francesca's Kitchen is my favourite!