Interesting read, good flow, colourful characters. Could have been better researched, for though the author does write a note at the end saying why she played with timelines somewhat (which I understand, as I had to do this in my own novel), I still felt that it did not allow for playing with culinary details of foods available in the time frame of the novel, given that the book is centred around cooking, with directions even for some recipes. (Book is set in 1498 and she talks about potato gnocchi. From Google research, the potato was not known to Europeans until about 1538 when they scaled the heights of the Andes where it grows naturally and it did not become cultivated in Europe till the latter part of the 1500s). I know I am being picky and that a book should have a story at its centre, with the detailing just fleshing out the bones, but even in this, I felt that the main character was planted to relate historical events, as opposed to being central to the action. It is a trend I am noticing in many of the historical novels I have recently read, with the history taking centre stage from the character. It makes for interesting reading if you like reading about history as I do, but I am not sure how it works for the reader who just likes a good yarn, and is willing to learn a thing or two on the side. I found The Book of Unholy Mischief to be an OK read. I had a very hard time getting into the book and to be honest I was never thirsting to continue reading it. I finished it because it was part of a book club for November, I didn't even start it till midway through November and am finishing it almost halfway through December.I enjoyed the nuances about food and how the cooking was described. It did get me very interested in food and made me want to cook more sensuously. I also began to wonder how I might take things in life for granted. From food that I eat or cook to love and the blessings of life.I did like the book and the story was interesting but the suggestions that go against my beliefs of faith sort of made me uncomfortable. Of course, there are many things that are plausible I just did not care for the suggestions, I was glad that the author did not dote on the suggestions. I made it a point to be more open-minded about different books that might challenge my way of thinking or put me outside of my comfort zone when I joined this book club and I am happy that I am doing that.I would recommend this book for anyone who might want a little excitement but overall it was just fluff that I read but didn't love to my heart's content.
What do You think about O Aprendiz De Veneza (2007)?
Fast paced, interesting picture of 15th century Venice, but the plot was a little contrived.
—ruben92b
Loved this very interesting story - will definitely reread and recommend!
—iluvsam
Gnostic gospels and cookery books? Eat your heart out, Delia.
—thegirlinthelie
