The Last Chinese Chef

By: Nicole Mones

Narrated by: James Chen, Elisabeth Rodgers

Length: 10 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

In her satisfying, sensual third novel, Nicole Mones takes readers inside the hidden world of elite cuisine in modern China through the story of an American food writer in Beijing. When recently widowed Maggie McElroy is called to China to settle a claim against her late husband's estate, she is blindsided by the discovery that he may have led a double life. Since work is all that will keep her sane, her magazine editor assigns her to profile Sam, a half-Chinese American who is the last in a line of gifted chefs tracing back to the imperial palace. As she watches Sam gear up for Chinas Olympic culinary competition by planning the banquet of a lifetime, she begins to see past the cuisines artistry to glimpse its coherent expression of Chinese civilization. It is here, amid lessons of tradition, obligation, and human connection that she finds the secret ingredient that may yet heal her heart.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2008 Nicole Mones (P)2010 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"The novel is rich with meaning and lore and an examination of loving relationships. Don't even touch this book when you're hungry. The descriptions make the aromas and textures float right off the page." (Amazon.com review)
"Early in her visit, Maggie scoffs at the idea that 'food can heal the human heart.' Mones smartly proves her wrong." ( Publishers Weekly)

"Elisabeth Rodgers delivers the novel with verve. James Chen narrates the chapter openings, which are quotes from a revered ancient tome on Chinese food preparation and philosophy. Cookery lore; subtle aromas and flavors; bold colors and textures all vie with story elements that focus on culture and family to keep listeners fully engaged." ( AudioFile)

Just What I Needed.

Food, a new culture and romance combine for the feel good story.
I am very glad I was able to listen to this book.

Totally Satisfying - highly recommended

I am not one to wax eloquent over most books - but this is one of the exceptions. A great story - especially if you are a foodie and interested in China. Beautifully written - very engaging - as it moves between characters, time frames, and focus. The descriptions of cooking and eating are very fun. The narration is excellent. I highly recommend this book.

Adored The Last Chinese Chef

I love a novel in which I learn about an interesting subject wrapped in a compelling story. The Last Chinese Chef does all that quite well. I was fascinated to learn about the importance of food in the Chinese culture and how differently the Chinese view the experience of eating than do westerners. Simultaneously, I couldn't wait to find out what was happening with Mones' well wrought two main characters as their parallel stories intertwined. Mones successfully brings together the experience of an American writer looking for closure re her husband's life and sudden death and the experience of a Chinese-American Chef competing in a national competition as a lead up to the Beijing Olympics. A fun and different novel.

A charming mix of history, tradition and eating.

Where does The Last Chinese Chef rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

It was one of my favorites and I'll listen to it again. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter, from the "Last Chinese Chef" she is writing about are worth paying attention to. The cadence of the narrator never varied, for all circumstances, which distracted from the story a bit, but not much. If you love food, you'll love learning about the rich history and traditions of the Chinese. A wonderful book, easy to listen to, heartwarming and educational.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Last Chinese Chef?

The intermingling of food, culture, tradition and family.

What do you think the narrator could have done better?

Alter her cadence.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No

Hidden Treasure

What made the experience of listening to The Last Chinese Chef the most enjoyable?

The effortless juggling of plots. I was charmed from the first page till the last. Right up till the end. Twenty minutes out from the end of the book I did not have a remote clue to the outcome - which I find rare these days.

What does Elisabeth Rodgers and James Chen bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I personally enjoyed their performances

If you could rename The Last Chinese Chef, what would you call it?

It's the perfect name.

Any additional comments?

If your looking for soothing - comfortable - pleasing, this is the treat you are searching for.

A Tasty Surprise

A beautiful book that keeps you guessing until the end. Family, food, and loyalty combine into unexpected possibilities.

Great Food, Contrived Plot

The entire plot of the story takes a far backseat to the descriptions of food and history lessons that the book provides. It was entertaining, but I never felt engaged to the characters' plights or cares. It was an enjoyable listen, but seemed short. The plot's are all tied up simply, with one exception, nary a twist thrown in. If you want a book that'll make you crave for an authetic Chinese restaurant or just dinner, then this is a wonderful story. If you want a book with a deep and interesting plot, then this won't be a good choice.

Rapture and Seduction

This book was suggested to me over two years ago by my mother. After reinstating my membership with Audible--I decide to give "The Last Chef" a listen. It will not disappoint. Although, the story is a bit predictable--there is plenty here to keep a keen intrigue and delight!! I recommend this book

Great food story

Really gave a captivating insight into Chinese food- the art of eating. Loved those descriptions. It was a little disappointing in the last chapter or so- I would have liked a little more But overall I loved it and now would really love to go to China if I could experience anything resembling this :)

Excellent

If you could sum up The Last Chinese Chef in three words, what would they be?

Love, Food, China

What other book might you compare The Last Chinese Chef to and why?

I have not read another like this book

Which scene was your favorite?

I particularly appreciated the sections explaining the Chinese philosophy of food preparation, ingredients, and the importance of sharing meals. The "quotes" of the Last Chinese Chef introducing each chapter were poetic. I visited China and appreciated and enjoyed the people there. This book helped explain why I had such admiration for the lovely, funny, warm people I met there.

Any additional comments?

I am planning another visit to China. This book will allow me to pay more attention to the cooking in China and so seek some imperial Chinese meals. I am so glad to have this book.