The Last Chinese Chef

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.

I'm kind of surprised that I enjoyed "The Last Chinese Chef." I was expecting a love, romantic story and wasn't thrill to listen to it, but as I got more into the story, I liked it and couldn't wait for more. Instead of listening about a man and a woman falling for each other, I learned so much more about the Chinese culture and how their food is a staple of who they are. The book is written well. As you follow the characters, you start to understand the Asian culture more by respecting their food as if it was art. The cooking competition over shadows the romance between the two main characters.

I enjoyed the developing friendship between Sam and Maggie. Sam was my favorite character.

I felt Elisabeth Rodgers was by turns, superb/outstanding/exceptionally good, but also fell into a cadence at times that irritated me... Still, I had to give the narration 5 stars because I enjoyed her reading more than most audiobooks I've listened to. James Chen was incredible...

I was pretty touched throughout the story actually... I particularly enjoyed the last half hour of the book.

I'm glad I picked this one up... I want to listen to it again...

If you want to listen to something soothing, refreshing and that will just make you feel warm and cozy, this is the one

So nice to read a simple romance with so much heart.

Fun story, enjoyable listen. Wish this had been published before my visit to China as it contains very interesting insight into China and Chinese Food. Only one caution, listening to this story may make you hungry :-)

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.

I personally enjoyed their performances

It's the perfect name.

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

The plot was unusual and really drew me in. I was sad when it ended!

The use of language! Mones use of verbs and descriptors made this food/mystery/romance palatable. Since listening to it we have been on a Chinese food cooking jag.

Beautifully read. One of the best readings we have heard! Lovely intonation, never over done or flat.

Yes, we laughed. It brought back many memories for my husband.

We have already shared our love of this novel with friends

Loved this book! Fine story and writing, and really neat descriptions of food and fascinating information on the Chinese philosophy about the properties of food and how the top chefs interested in the imperial style strive to complement and balance the perfect banquet.

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.

The intermingling of food, culture, tradition and family.

Alter her cadence.

No