Notes from Feb 2015 group

THE BEEKEEPER’S BALL By Susan Wiggs – Discussed on Feb. 4, 2015 at Geneseo Public Library

 

                         

 

The unconscionable incident with Calvin Sharp caused Isabel Johansen to leave culinary school and flee to her family’s home, Bella Vista, nestled in the Sonoma wine country. Isabel continues to hone her culinary skills while turning Bella Vista into a destination for food lovers. She even adds a cooking school and is eagerly planning Bella Vista’s first major event, her sister Tess’ wedding. But Isabel’s hard-earned happiness is shattered when Calvin, now a famous TV chef, chooses her town as the venue for his new restaurant. Things get even more hectic and complicated when former war correspondent Cormac O’Neill comes to town, ready to write her grandfather’s biography, including his role in the Danish Resistance during WWII. As much as Isabel denies it, she’s getting more and more attracted to Cormac, something that’s definitely not on her “to do” list. Wiggs’ carefully detailed plotlines, one contemporary and one historical, with their candid look at relationships and their long-term effects, are sure to captivate readers.

This novel had two storylines – a modern day California story and her grandfather’s story as a freedom fighter in Denmark during WWII.  The characters were interesting.  We all enjoyed the main character’s culinary talents, the honey recipes included in this novel, and would have liked to attend her cooking classes.   The story gives us beekeeping information. There were a few plot questions left unanswered and wondered if there will be a sequel in the future.  Everyone in our group liked this book.